An electric lawn mower might be quiet and efficient, but it’s still a serious machine. And like any piece of equipment with moving parts, batteries, and electronics, where and how you store it plays a big role in how well it performs and how long it lasts.
If your mower gets shoved into a damp corner of the garage or left under a leaky tarp all winter, you’re asking for trouble. Moisture, temperature swings, and plain old dust can damage parts, wear out the battery, and shorten its lifespan. Whether it’s a push model or self-propelled, your electric mower deserves a proper home.
Why Storage Location Actually Matters
It’s tempting to stash the mower wherever there’s room. But location really does make a difference.
Indoors is always best
An enclosed space is your safest bet. Think garage, shed, or basement. These places are ideal because they protect electric lawn mowers from rain, sun, pests, and dramatic temperature changes. If none of those are options, a weatherproof outdoor box or a solid cover is better than nothing. But even then, you’ll want to check for moisture often.
Think temperature stability
Cold doesn’t just affect batteries, it slows them down. Extreme heat isn’t great either, especially if your mower has a lithium-ion battery. If possible, aim for a storage spot that stays somewhere between 40°F and 80°F.
Avoid areas that freeze solid or get boiling hot. Basements are usually a solid choice because they stay consistent year-round.
Stay off the ground
Storing your mower directly on a concrete floor might seem harmless, but that cold surface can encourage condensation underneath. A small platform, mat, or even a couple of wood planks can help prevent moisture buildup.
What to Do Before You Store It
Sticking it in a corner and walking away? Not quite. A few simple steps make a big difference.
1. Clean it thoroughly
Grass clippings, dirt, and debris hold moisture. That can lead to rust, mildew, and even electrical issues. After the last mow of the season, clean the deck, wheels, and blades. Use a plastic scraper or brush to avoid damaging the surface. Let it dry fully before storing.
2. Disconnect or remove the battery
If your mower uses a removable battery, take it out. Store it separately in a dry, climate-controlled place. Most batteries should be stored with around a 40% to 60% charge, not fully full or empty. Check the manual if you’re unsure.
If the battery is built-in, make sure the mower is turned off and stored somewhere with moderate temperatures.
3. Check for damage or wear
Look over the blades, wheels, and handles. Tighten any bolts. If anything looks worn or broken, handle it before next season. It’s easier now than when the grass starts growing again.
4. Cover it the right way
A loose tarp might invite more problems than it solves. You don’t want to trap moisture underneath. Go for a breathable, fitted cover designed for equipment. If your mower’s in a closed shed or garage, a simple dust cover works just fine.
Long-Term vs Short-Term Storage
There’s a difference between putting your mower away for the weekend and tucking it away for winter. Here’s how to handle both.
Short-Term (between uses in mowing season):
- Keep it clean and dry
- Store it in a spot that’s out of direct sunlight
- Make sure the battery is cool before charging or using
- Avoid leaving it outside overnight
Long-Term (off-season):
- Fully clean and dry every part
- Remove and separately store the battery
- Elevate off concrete floors
- Use a breathable cover
- Avoid any spot with extreme temperatures
Common Mistakes People Make
There’s a lot of confusion around what an electric mower actually needs once the mowing season ends. Some people assume that since it doesn’t use gas or oil, they can just stash it anywhere. But skipping even a few basic storage steps can lead to long-term damage.
One of the biggest mistakes is leaving the battery in the mower while it sits in a cold or unheated shed. Low temperatures can be rough on lithium cells and may even ruin a battery if left for months in freezing conditions. Storing it indoors, in a cool and dry spot, is a much safer move.
Another common error is putting the mower away while it’s still damp or caked in grass. That leftover moisture and organic debris can cause rust and even allow mold to form inside tight spaces. Letting it dry completely before covering or storing it is a simple way to avoid these problems.
Some people try to protect their mower with a sealed plastic tarp. While the intention is good, plastic covers can trap humidity and lead to more damage than they prevent, especially in humid regions. Breathable fabric covers do a much better job.
Finally, people often ignore what the manual says about proper battery care or off-season storage. Each mower model can have specific requirements, and skipping those small details might shorten its lifespan or affect performance when you go to charge your battery the following season.
Where It Waits Matters
It might just be a piece of lawn gear, but how you treat it in the off-season affects how it treats you when it’s time to cut the grass again. Give your electric mower a clean, dry, safe space, and it’ll stick around for the long haul!
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