Ah, the humble lawnmower. A symbol of summer, the great outdoors, and the endless chore of keeping your grass in check. But what happens to this trusty machine when the leaves start to fall and the weather turns chilly? Where do you store your lawnmower for the winter months, or even just when it’s not in use? This article will explore various storage options, from simple solutions to more elaborate storage systems, and offer tips on how to keep your lawnmower in top shape for years to come.
Essentially, you have two main choices when it comes to lawnmower storage: indoors or outdoors. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances.
Indoor Storage: A Safe Haven for Your Mower
Indoor storage is often the preferred choice for lawnmower owners, especially those who want to protect their investment from the elements. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of keeping your lawnmower indoors:
Pros:
- Protection from the elements: Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on a lawnmower, causing rust, corrosion, and damage to its internal components. Indoor storage provides a shield against these elements, extending the life of your mower.
- Security: Keeping your lawnmower indoors reduces the risk of theft, a significant concern for expensive equipment.
- Convenience: Having your lawnmower readily accessible indoors means you can quickly grab it when you need it, without having to trek outside.
- Dust and debris protection: Storing your mower indoors helps keep it clean and free from dust and debris that can clog its air filter and other components.
Cons:
- Space requirements: Indoor storage requires dedicated space, which can be a challenge for those with limited storage options.
- Potential for damage: A clumsy drop or accidental bump could damage your lawnmower if it’s stored in a crowded or cluttered area.
Indoor Storage Options:
- Garage: The garage is a popular choice for lawnmower storage, providing a relatively secure and protected environment.
- Shed: A detached shed can also be a good option for storing your lawnmower, especially if you have limited space in your garage.
- Basement: If your basement is dry and well-ventilated, it can be a suitable storage location for your lawnmower.
Tips for Indoor Storage:
- Clean your mower: Before storing your lawnmower indoors, clean it thoroughly with a brush and a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, grass clippings, and other debris.
- Empty the fuel tank: To prevent the fuel from going stale and damaging the engine, empty the fuel tank before storage.
- Add stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before emptying it, or if you choose to leave a small amount of fuel in the tank. Stabilizer helps prevent the fuel from degrading.
- Change the oil: If you haven’t done so recently, change the oil before storing your lawnmower. This will help keep the engine clean and prevent sludge buildup.
- Store it upright: Store your lawnmower upright, preferably on a stand or a shelf to prevent damage to the wheels and other components.
Outdoor Storage: A More Practical Choice?
For those with limited indoor space or a strong preference for storing their lawnmower outside, outdoor storage can be a viable option. However, it requires more careful preparation and maintenance to ensure your mower remains in good working order.
Pros:
- Space efficiency: Outdoor storage doesn’t require dedicating valuable indoor space.
- Simplicity: Setting up outdoor storage can be as simple as placing your mower under a tarp or in a covered area.
Cons:
- Exposure to the elements: Your lawnmower will be exposed to rain, snow, sun, and extreme temperatures, which can lead to rust, corrosion, and damage.
- Security risks: Outdoor storage increases the risk of theft, especially if your lawnmower isn’t securely locked away.
- Maintenance requirements: Outdoor storage requires more frequent cleaning and maintenance to protect your mower from the elements.
Outdoor Storage Options:
- Covered area: A carport, patio, or even a large tree canopy can provide some protection from the elements.
- Tarp: A tarp can be used to cover your lawnmower and provide a basic layer of protection.
- Outdoor storage shed: A dedicated outdoor storage shed specifically designed for lawnmowers and other garden equipment can offer greater security and protection from the elements.
Tips for Outdoor Storage:
- Protect from the elements: Use a tarp, shed, or other covering to shield your lawnmower from rain, snow, and direct sunlight.
- Elevate the mower: If possible, elevate your lawnmower off the ground using a stand or blocks to prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean and maintain regularly: Clean your lawnmower regularly to remove dirt, grass clippings, and other debris.
- Consider a weatherproof cover: A weatherproof cover specifically designed for lawnmowers can provide additional protection from the elements.
Choosing the Right Storage Solution
Ultimately, the best storage solution for your lawnmower depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:
- Your available space: Do you have the space indoors to store your lawnmower comfortably?
- Your budget: Can you afford to purchase a dedicated storage shed or other storage solutions?
- Your level of commitment: Are you willing to invest the time and effort required to maintain an outdoor storage solution?
- Your local climate: Consider the severity of your winters and the amount of rainfall you experience when making your storage decision.
No matter which storage option you choose, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to protect your lawnmower from damage and ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your lawnmower running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the best place to store a lawn mower?
The best place to store a lawn mower is a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a garage or shed. It’s important to keep the mower off the ground to prevent rust and damage. You can use a shelf, stand, or even a piece of plywood to elevate it. Avoid storing it in damp or humid areas, as this can lead to corrosion and mold growth. A good rule of thumb is to choose a spot that’s not exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes.
2. How do I store a lawn mower for the winter?
Storing a lawn mower for winter requires a few additional steps. First, make sure the mower is clean and dry. You can wash it with soap and water, but be sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it. Next, you’ll want to drain the fuel tank. If you don’t, the fuel can gum up the engine and damage it over time. Finally, you should change the oil and spark plug before storing it for the season. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your mower will be ready to go when you need it in the spring.
3. What should I do with my lawn mower after each use?
After each use, it’s important to clean your lawn mower and store it properly. Start by emptying the grass catcher and brushing off any excess grass or debris. Then, wipe down the mower’s exterior with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or oil. If you have a gas-powered mower, you should also check the oil level and top it off if needed. Finally, store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
4. How do I protect my lawn mower from rust?
Rust can be a big problem for lawn mowers, especially if they’re stored in a damp environment. To protect your mower from rust, make sure it’s clean and dry before storing it. You can also apply a light coat of oil to the metal parts of the mower. This will help to create a barrier against moisture and prevent rust from forming. Finally, make sure the mower is stored in a dry place. This will help to prevent rust from forming in the first place.
5. How can I store my lawn mower in a small space?
Storing a lawn mower in a small space can be challenging. One option is to hang the mower from the ceiling using hooks or straps. This will free up valuable floor space. You can also purchase a dedicated lawn mower storage rack. This will allow you to store the mower upright, saving even more space. If you have a smaller space, consider a smaller, lighter mower, which may be easier to store.
6. What are some other ways to store my lawn mower?
There are several ways to store your lawn mower, depending on your space and preference. You can use a garage or shed, but you can also store it indoors, such as in a basement or closet. If you’re short on space, you can purchase a dedicated lawn mower storage stand or rack. This will allow you to store the mower vertically, saving space. You can also hang the mower from the ceiling using hooks or straps. This is a good option if you’re short on floor space.
7. How can I keep my lawn mower from being stolen?
One of the best ways to keep your lawn mower from being stolen is to store it in a secure location, such as a locked garage or shed. You can also install security cameras or an alarm system to deter thieves. Additionally, you can engrave your name or a unique identifier on the mower to help with recovery in case it is stolen. Finally, you can also consider purchasing a cover for your lawn mower. This will help to deter thieves and protect your mower from the elements.