How to Maintain Your Lawn Mower Before Storing It for Winter

As autumn draws to a close and temperatures begin to fall, many homeowners across Nottingham and Mansfield will be preparing to put their lawn mowers away until spring. However, before storing your mower in the shed or garage, it's worth spending a little time cleaning and maintaining it.

Grass clippings, moisture, old petrol and general wear can all cause problems when a lawn mower is left unused for several months. A few simple maintenance tasks now can help prevent rust, reduce the likelihood of mechanical problems and make getting your mower running again much easier when the warmer weather returns.

At Marks Turf & Landscapes, we know that looking after your lawn involves more than simply cutting the grass. Here's our guide to preparing your lawn mower for winter storage.

Give Your Lawn Mower a Thorough Clean

One of the most important jobs before storing your lawn mower is removing any grass clippings, mud and other debris that have accumulated throughout the mowing season.

Damp grass left underneath the mower can encourage corrosion, while dried clippings can become difficult to remove after several months.

Start by switching off the mower and allowing it to cool completely. Disconnect the spark plug lead on a petrol mower, unplug an electric mower or remove the battery from a cordless model before carrying out any cleaning.

Use a stiff brush or plastic scraper to remove grass from underneath the cutting deck, around the wheels and inside the grass collection box. Avoid directing water towards electrical components, bearings or the engine, and allow everything to dry thoroughly before storage.

For petrol mowers, always follow the manufacturer's instructions when tilting the machine, as tipping it incorrectly can allow oil or fuel to enter the air filter or exhaust.

Check and Maintain the Cutting Blades

Sharp lawn mower blades are important for maintaining a healthy lawn. Blunt or damaged blades can tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leaving uneven edges that may turn brown.

Winter is an ideal opportunity to inspect your mower blades for signs of wear, including chips, cracks, rust or excessive dullness.

If the blades need sharpening, consider having them professionally serviced. This is particularly important if they are badly damaged or require balancing.

While inspecting the blades, check that the mower deck, wheels and other visible components are in good condition. Identifying problems now gives you time to arrange repairs before the next mowing season.

Prepare Petrol Lawn Mowers for Winter

Petrol lawn mowers require a little extra attention before being stored for several months.

Check the Fuel

Petrol can deteriorate when left unused for extended periods, potentially causing starting problems or deposits within the fuel system.

Depending on your mower manufacturer's recommendations, you may need to drain the fuel system or use a suitable fuel stabiliser before storage. Always handle and dispose of petrol safely, away from flames or other ignition sources.

Inspect the Engine Oil

Check the engine oil level and condition. If an oil change is due, completing it before winter can help protect the engine while the mower is out of use.

Always use the oil grade recommended in the manufacturer's handbook.

Check the Air Filter and Spark Plug

A dirty air filter or worn spark plug can make starting a petrol mower more difficult. Inspect these components and clean or replace them where necessary, following the manufacturer's servicing instructions.

If you're unsure about any engine maintenance, a professional lawn mower service may be the safest option.

Look After Electric and Cordless Mowers

Electric and battery-powered lawn mowers generally require less mechanical maintenance than petrol models, but they still need preparing for winter.

For corded electric mowers, inspect the power cable for cuts, cracks or other signs of damage. Clean the mower carefully and store the cable loosely to avoid unnecessary strain.

If you have a cordless mower, remove the battery before cleaning and store it separately in a cool, dry, frost-free location.

Most lithium-ion batteries should not be stored completely discharged. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate storage charge level, as this can vary between models.

Avoid leaving batteries in damp sheds or garages where temperatures may fall below freezing.

Choose a Suitable Winter Storage Location

Once your lawn mower has been cleaned and serviced, choosing the right storage location is equally important.

A dry garage or well-ventilated garden shed is usually suitable, provided the mower is protected from excessive moisture and frost.

Store the mower on a level surface, preferably in its normal operating position. Unless the manufacturer specifically allows vertical storage, avoid standing petrol mowers upright, as this can cause oil or fuel to leak into areas where it shouldn't.

A breathable protective cover can help prevent dust from accumulating, but avoid covering the mower while it is still damp.

If your shed is particularly cold or prone to condensation, consider raising the mower slightly off the floor to reduce prolonged contact with moisture.

Don't Forget About Your Lawn During Winter

Although your lawn mower may be taking a break, your grass still needs some attention throughout the colder months.

Remove fallen leaves and debris regularly to prevent them from smothering the grass. Avoid walking on lawns when the ground is frozen or waterlogged, as this can damage the grass and compact the soil.

During occasional mild spells, grass may continue growing. If mowing becomes necessary, wait until the ground is reasonably dry and raise the cutting height to avoid cutting the grass too short.

Winter is also a useful time to assess the condition of your lawn and plan any improvements for the following spring.

For more seasonal advice, read our guide, Winter is Coming: Jobs to Look After Your Lawn, which covers additional steps you can take to care for your grass throughout the colder months.

If your garden has developed bare patches, uneven areas or extensive moss, you may want to consider lawn renovation or laying new turf when conditions become suitable.

Get Your Garden Ready for Spring with Marks Turf & Landscapes

Taking care of your lawn mower before winter can save time, money and frustration when spring arrives. By cleaning the cutting deck, inspecting the blades, preparing the engine or battery and choosing a suitable storage location, you can help keep your mower in good working condition for years to come.

At Marks Turf & Landscapes, we provide lawn turf, turf laying, landscaping and garden maintenance services throughout Nottingham, Mansfield and the surrounding areas.

Whether you're planning to replace a tired lawn, lay fresh turf or give your garden a new look, our experienced team is here to help.

Contact Marks Turf & Landscapes today to discuss your lawn and garden requirements or request a free quote.