The end of mowing season is fast approaching. Before you park that lawn mower for winter, it's important to properly store and maintain it so it's ready for action next spring. In this blog, we'll go over key steps to securely stow your lawn mower storage ideas and preserve its health during downtime. Follow these storage best practices and your mower will thrive through seasons of hibernation.

Choosing the Best Spot

The first decision is where to store your mower. Some top options:

• Garage - Common spot but risks fumes, so ensure ventilation
• Shed - More secure, can add shelves to maximize space
• Basement - Temperature controlled but needs exhaust vent
• Outbuilding - Detached structure keeps mower separate from home
• Carport - Covered outdoor parking, easily accessible
• Patio - Short term temporary storage with a waterproof cover
• Driveway - Park against the house, no weather protection though
• Side yard - Tucked out of the way near side of house if no shed
• Backyard - Up against a fence or wall, use a cover

Ideally, choose an indoor area like a shed, garage or basement if available. This protects the mower fully from sun, rain, snow and other elements year-round. If storing outside, use a heavy duty weatherproof cover on a paved surface.

Prepping Your Mower for Storage

Before stowing, properly prepare your mower:

• Drain gas if storing over 1 month to avoid gummed carburetor. Use fuel stabilizer if under 1 month.
• Change oil and filter if storing over winter to remove contaminants.
• For electric mowers, remove battery and maintain charge on trickle charger.
• Thoroughly hose off deck and undercarriage to remove debris and dirt.
• Allow mower to dry fully before covering or moving into storage area.
• Wipe down metal body and apply a corrosion prevention spray.
• Ensure all maintenance is up to date - sharpen blades, replace worn parts, fix leaks.
• Review owner's manual for model-specific fuel and storage instructions.

Taking time to correctly prep your mower prior to storage keeps all systems ship shape when needed again. Don't take shortcuts here!

Creative Storage Solutions

Once your mower is prepped, it's time to figure out how to stow it. Here are some creative storage ideas:

Vertical Storage

Store upright to save floor space. Options include wall-mounting in the garage, storage racks to stand it vertically, or sliding onto the bottom shelf of a wire storage unit.

Protective Floor Mats

Never leave a mower directly on the concrete. Use a thick rubber mat to provide a protective barrier against moisture damage.

Mobility Carts

A lawn mower cart makes storage and transport easy. Find one with heavy duty wheels and a lower shelf for accessories.

Repurposed Furniture

An old cabinet, dresser or shelf unit can be adapted to neatly store your mower and supplies when space is very limited.

Overhead Mounting

Use pulleys, straps and roof beams to lift and store mower up and out of the way in a garage or shed. Lower it down when needed.

Corner Storage

Maximize an unused corner by placing mower diagonally. Surround with shelves or pegboard to hold accessories.

Get creative with your storage situation! There are many options to safely stow your mower while saving space.

Protecting Your Investment

Your mower represents a significant investment. Use these tips to keep it protected:

• Store in locked shed or garage whenever possible
• Use a hitch lock or wheel boot to immobilize the mower
• Install motion sensor lights and security cameras covering storage area
• Disable mower by removing key, battery or spark plug when unattended
• Discreetly etch an ID number on the body for identification if stolen
• Consider a hidden GPS tracker to aid recovery if mower is taken
• Lock up any removable attachments or accessories separately

Take precautions to properly secure your mower from theft or unauthorized use. Don't make it an easy target!

Off-Season Care Tips

Storing your mower properly is only half the battle - you also need to maintain it during the storage period:

• Check over mower every 1-2 months during storage
• Keep tires inflated to avoid cracking or dry rot
• Recharge electric mower battery monthly to maintain optimal charge
• Start gas mower and run for 5-10 minutes to circulate oil
• Inspect for any leaks, nesting creatures or other damage
• Ensure cover is still properly secured, no gaps or tears
• Check fluids - top off if needed to prevent corrosion
• Clean off any collected debris, dust or dirt
• Move to different location if stored outside to vary sun exposure

Doing periodic maintenance checks ensures your mower stays in mint shape while napping! Don't neglect it.

Wake Up Time! Removal From Storage

When it's finally time to use your mower again, you'll need to properly remove it from storage:

• Take off any cover and thoroughly clean mower
• Check air filter and replace if dirty
• Reinstall charged battery on electric mowers
• Add fresh gas and stabilizer to fuel system
• Check oil level - change if needed if stored for extended time
• Inflate tires to proper PSI
• Clear any debris from under mowing deck
• Perform any needed maintenance based on state of mower
• Start it up and test all functions to ensure proper operation

Following this startup checklist ensures your mower is ready to tackle the lawn after its winter siesta.

Caring for your mower properly doesn't just mean maintenance during mowing season - taking steps to correctly store it over winter is equally as important. Apply these smart storage techniques and your mower will thrive through seasons of inactivity. Keep your investment safe and secure until spring growing season rolls around once again!

Your FAQs - Answered

Storing a mower properly requires considering many key factors. Here are answers to some frequently asked storage questions:

What's the ideal temperature to store my mower at?

Between 40°-90°F. Avoid extreme temps and fluctuations that can cause condensation issues.

Can I leave gas in the mower during storage?

Only if storing for less than 1 month - use fuel stabilizer. Over 1 month, drain completely to avoid gummed carburetor.

Do I need to disconnect the battery on an electric mower?

Yes, remove it and maintain optimal charge using a trickle charger if storing over 1-2 months.

Should I change the oil before storing for winter?

Yes, old oil allows contaminant buildup over months of inactivity. Change it before off-season storage.

Is it safe to cover my mower right after using it?

No, always allow it to fully dry first. Wet mowers under covers promote rust issues.

How often should I start my stored mower?

At least every 4-6 weeks over winter. Run for a few minutes to circulate oil in the engine.

Can I hang my push mower on the wall to save space?

Yes, if you securely anchor heavy duty brackets into the wall studs to support the weight.

What's the best way to prevent theft of my stored mower?

Lock it up out of sight when possible. Use a hidden GPS tracker. Immobilize wheels and remove key.

Where is the ideal place to store my mower?

In a temperature controlled, secure location like a locked garage or shed if available on your property.

Taking steps to correctly store your mower leads to seasons of trouble-free performance. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines as well. Your mower will thrive with proper care during downtime!