Lawn Mower End-of-Season Maintenance and Storage Checklist
A lawn mower that's put away dirty and full of old fuel is a lawn mower that gives you trouble next time you need it. A short end-of-season routine keeps it starting first pull when the grass starts growing again.
Deal with the fuel first
Old fuel left in the tank over winter is the single biggest cause of hard-starting mowers in spring. Either run the tank dry before storage or add a fuel stabiliser and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it through the carburettor.
Clean the deck properly
Grass clippings packed under the deck hold moisture against the metal and accelerate rust, especially on steel decks. Tip the mower (spark plug lead disconnected first) and scrape or hose out built-up clippings before storing.
Check the blade while you're in there
A dull or nicked blade tears grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which stresses the lawn and gives a rougher finish. End of season is the easiest time to sharpen or replace it, ready to go rather than discovering the problem mid-mow next season.
Oil and air filter
Old oil left sitting all season can break down — a fresh oil change before storage means the engine isn't sitting in degraded oil for months. A quick air filter check and clean rounds out the routine.
Store it somewhere dry
A shed or garage beats an open carport for mower storage — constant damp exposure is what actually accelerates rust on the deck and undercarriage, more than the mower simply sitting unused.
Or give it a dedicated home
If your mower currently lives under a tarp or crammed into a corner, a proper outdoor shed for the garden keeps it and the rest of your equipment dry and out of the weather year-round.
Browse the full range in Lawn Mowers.
For safe use of outdoor power equipment, see Safe Work Australia.
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About the author: Ryan Griffiths is based in Newcastle, NSW, and works with the Toolaroo team helping tradies, farmers, and home workshop owners choose the right storage and equipment for their setup.