How to Winterize Your Lawn Mower (Step-by-Step)

Putting your mower away dirty and neglected is the fastest way to guarantee a frustrating spring startup — or an expensive repair. Winterizing takes about 30 minutes and adds years to your mower’s life.

Gas Mower Winterization (Push & Self-Propelled)

Step 1: Run the Tank Dry or Stabilize the Fuel

You have two options:

Run it dry — Let the mower run until it stalls. This prevents stale gas from gumming up the carburetor.
Add fuel stabilizer — If you prefer to store with gas, add stabilizer and run the engine for 5 minutes to circulate it.

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Step 2: Change the Oil

Old oil contains acids and contaminants that corrode engine parts over winter. Drain the old oil while the engine is still warm, then refill with fresh oil per your owner’s manual.

Step 3: Replace or Clean the Air Filter

A dirty air filter left over winter can harbor moisture. Pop in a fresh one — they’re cheap insurance.

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Step 4: Remove and Inspect the Spark Plug

Pull the spark plug and check for wear, carbon buildup, or corrosion. Replace if it’s been a full season. A fresh plug ensures easy spring starting.

Step 5: Clean the Deck

Scrape off caked grass from the underside of the deck. Built-up clippings trap moisture and promote rust. A putty knife works well.

Step 6: Sharpen (or Replace) the Blade

End-of-season sharpening means your blade is ready to go in spring. Remove the blade, sharpen with a file or grinder, and reinstall.

Step 7: Store Properly

Keep the mower in a dry garage or shed
Cover it to prevent dust accumulation
Never store a gas mower indoors near a water heater or furnace

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Electric Mower Winterization

Electric mowers need less work but still deserve attention:

Clean the deck — Same as gas mowers, scrape off debris
Inspect the blade — Sharpen or replace as needed
Battery care — Store batteries at 40–50% charge in a cool, dry place above freezing. Never leave a lithium battery fully depleted over winter.
Wipe down contacts — Clean the battery terminals with a dry cloth

Riding Mower Winterization

Everything above applies, plus:

Disconnect the battery and store it on a trickle charger
Check tire pressure — Tires can develop flat spots sitting all winter
Lubricate moving parts — Grease fittings, pivot points, and cables
Engage the parking brake only if stored on a level surface — constant tension can wear brake components

Winterization Checklist

Lawn Mower Maintenance Checklist — Year-round maintenance tips
How to Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades — Detailed sharpening guide
Best Lawn Mower Covers — Protect your investment

Planning ahead for spring? Get a head start with the Spring Lawn Care Checklist or visit Lush Lawns for a complete seasonal plan tailored to your climate zone.