Garages, tool sheds, and storage sheds are the best places to keep mowers protected from weather and theft. Avoid hot, confined spaces for gas mowers. Clean the mower before storing, follow manufacturer guidance for fuel and battery care, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starts, and secure the storage area to protect children and deter theft.

Common storage locations

Garages, tool sheds, and dedicated storage sheds are the most common places to keep a lawn mower. They offer shelter from weather, theft deterrence, and a convenient spot for routine maintenance. Some people use a utility corner of a basement or a locked outdoor cabinet for smaller push mowers.

Greenhouses and other heated plant rooms are popular for space reasons but are not ideal for gas mowers because of heat and fuel-fume buildup.

Safety and damage prevention

Treat the mower as a piece of equipment that can cause injury or start a fire if stored improperly. Keep it out of reach of children and away from ignition sources. Lock or secure the storage area if theft or accidental access is a concern.

Clean the mower before storing: remove grass clippings, dry the deck, and wipe down controls. This reduces corrosion and rodent nesting. Use a fitted cover if the mower will sit for weeks.

Fuel, batteries, and winterizing

Follow the owner's manual for fuel and battery recommendations. For gas mowers, either run the engine until it uses the fuel or add a fuel stabilizer before long-term storage to avoid stale fuel problems.

For battery-powered mowers, remove the battery if recommended and store it indoors in a cool, dry place. Follow the manufacturer's guidance on state-of-charge for storage and periodic charging.

Disconnect the spark plug or follow the maker's safety steps to prevent accidental starts during maintenance or storage.

Ventilation and fire risk

Store gas-powered equipment in a well-ventilated area away from open flames, pilot lights, or heat-producing appliances. Do not store gasoline indoors in large quantities. If you must store fuel on-site, use approved containers and follow local codes.

Avoid confined, heat-trapping spaces (like a hot greenhouse or vehicle trunk) for a gas mower. Excess heat can increase vapor pressure in the fuel system and raise fire risk.

Practical tips and theft prevention

  • Put the mower on a stand or blocks to keep the tires and cutting deck off damp surfaces.
  • Keep tools, spark arrestors, and keys stored separately from the mower.
  • Consider motion-sensing lights, a padlock, or an alarm for outdoor sheds.
  • Check stored batteries and fuel periodically and perform seasonal maintenance before the next use.
Choosing the right spot balances protection from the elements, safety requirements, and convenience. When in doubt, follow the mower manufacturer's storage and maintenance recommendations.

FAQs about Lawn Mower Storage

Is it safe to store a gas lawn mower in a garage?
Yes, if the garage is ventilated and you follow safety steps: let the engine cool, avoid storing large quantities of gasoline indoors, use approved containers for any fuel, and keep the mower away from heat sources and pilot lights.
Should I remove the battery from an electric mower for storage?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions. In many cases you should remove the battery and store it indoors in a cool, dry place and maintain the recommended state of charge while in storage.
Can I leave fuel in the mower over winter?
Either run the engine dry before long-term storage or add a fuel stabilizer according to the owner's manual. Stale fuel can clog carburetors and cause starting problems.
Is a greenhouse a good place to store my mower?
No. Greenhouses can trap heat and concentrate fuel vapors, increasing fire risk. They may also damage plastic and rubber parts from heat and humidity.
How do I prevent theft of my mower stored outdoors?
Use a locked shed or cabinet, secure the mower with a padlock or cable, keep keys and batteries stored separately, and consider lighting or a motion alarm near the storage area.