Electric mowers are a fantastic choice for homeowners seeking a more eco-friendly and efficient way to maintain their lawns. However, proper storage is essential to keep your mower in top condition, ensure safety and maximise its lifespan.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for storing your electric mower.
1. Choose the Right Storage Environment
The environment in which you store your mower plays a significant role in its maintenance. Follow these tips:
- Dry Location: Keep your mower in a dry place to prevent moisture from damaging the electrical components. Avoid basements or areas prone to high humidity or flooding
- Stable Temperatures: Extreme temperatures can harm the mower and its battery. Ideally, store it in a location where temperatures range between 10°C and 30°C (50°F to 86°F)
- Ventilation: Ensure the storage space is well-ventilated to prevent overheating or dampness
2. Battery Care
For electric mowers with removable batteries, extra care is required:
- Remove the Battery: Take out the battery and store it separately to avoid unnecessary wear or damage
- Maintain Charge Level: Most manufacturers recommend storing lithium-ion batteries at 50%-70% charge to maintain their health
- Avoid Metal Contact: Store the battery in a safe, non-conductive container to prevent short circuits caused by contact with metal objects
3. Clean Your Mower Before Storage
A clean mower is a happy mower. Take the time to:
- Remove Grass and Debris: Clean the underside of the mower to remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris. This prevents rust and unpleasant odors
- Dry Thoroughly: Wipe down the mower to ensure it is completely dry before storage as moisture can lead to rust and electrical issues
4. Cord Management for Corded Mowers
If you’re using a corded electric mower:
- Inspect for Damage: Check the power cord for frays, cracks, or other damage. Replace it if necessary
- Store Neatly: Coil the cord properly to avoid kinks or tangles which can damage the cord over time
5. Storage Position Matters
How you store your mower can impact its longevity:
- Flat Surface: Store the mower on a flat and stable surface to prevent it from tipping over
- Wall-Mounting: Some electric mowers are designed for wall-mounting, saving space and keeping the mower secure
6. Safety First
Electric mowers are powerful tools, and safety should always be a priority:
- Child-Proofing: Store the mower in a locked or inaccessible area to keep it out of reach of children
- Unplug the Mower: Ensure the mower is unplugged from any power source before storage to avoid accidents
7. Seasonal Storage Tips
If you’re putting the mower away for an extended period, such as during the winter months:
- Follow the Manual: Consult your mower’s user manual for specific long-term storage instructions
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a light layer of lubricant to moving parts to prevent rust
- Inspect Periodically: Check on the mower occasionally to ensure no pests or environmental factors are causing damage
Proper storage of your electric mower doesn’t just protect your investment, it ensures the safety of your household and keeps your mower ready for action when the grass starts growing again. By following these steps, you can enjoy a long-lasting, reliable mowing experience. Always refer to your mower’s user manual for specific care instructions and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained electric mower!
Electric mowers need smart stashing! What’s your go-to trick to keep moisture out?
My go-to trick: keep the mower off the floor and let it breathe. Store it somewhere dry, ideally under a cover that’s water-resistant but breathable, and make sure the mower is completely dry before putting it away.
For extra protection, a small moisture absorber/dehumidifier tub in the storage area works really well too.
I have always had trouble storing my electrical mower. Not anymore, thanks to your helpful guide. Can you help me with storing bags of seeds as well?
Keep bags off the floor — use a shelf or pallet to avoid damp rising from concrete.
Store somewhere dry — avoid sheds that suffer from condensation or leaks.
Keep it cool — large temperature swings can reduce seed viability over time.
Keep bags sealed — once opened, fold or reseal the bag tightly to prevent moisture getting in.
Protect from pests — mice and other rodents love grass seed, so use a sealed storage container for opened bags if possible.
Keep it out of direct sunlight — heat can damage the seed and packaging.
Label opened bags with the date so you know which to use first.
Best tip: If you’re storing seed in a shed or garage, put the bags in a sealed plastic storage box with a moisture absorber, but don’t add anything damp to the container.
For commercial quantities, I’d use a dry, temperature-stable storeroom with good airflow, rather than a typical garden shed.