How to Store a Lawn Mower Outside Without a Shed | Explore Easy Ways

A lawn mower is an important tool that helps keep your yard neat and tidy. But what do you do if you don’t have a shed or garage to store it in? Leaving it outside without protection can lead to rust, engine problems, or damage from the weather. Luckily, there are safe ways to store a lawn mower outdoors, even if you don’t have a shed.

In this article, we explore step-by-step how to store your lawn mower outside safely and keep it in good condition.

Table of Contents

How to Store a Lawn Mower Outside Without a Shed | Step By Step Guide

Here are the list

1. Choose a Safe and Dry Location
2. Clean the Mower Before Storing
3. Use a Strong, Waterproof Cover
4. Elevate the Mower Off the Ground
5. Empty the Gas or Use a Fuel Stabilizer (for Gas Mowers)
6. Remove the Battery (for Electric Mowers)
7. Check on the Mower Regularly
8. Use an Outdoor Storage Box (Optional)

1. Choose a Safe and Dry Location

The first step is to find the best place in your yard to store the lawn mower. Look for a spot that is:

Flat and dry
Away from areas that collect water or mud
Not under trees (to avoid falling branches or sap)
Preferably next to a wall or fence for added protection

If you have a spot that is a little sheltered, like under a deck, porch, or the side of the house with an overhang, that’s even better. These areas can provide extra cover from rain and sun.

2. Clean the Mower Before Storing

Before putting your mower away, it’s important to clean it. Grass, dirt, and moisture can lead to rust and damage over time. Here’s how to clean it:

Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug (for gas mowers) or battery (for electric mowers).
Use a brush or stick to remove grass and debris from underneath the mower and around the blades.
Wipe down the outside of the mower with a damp cloth.
Dry it completely with a towel or let it air dry in the sun.

Keeping your mower clean will help it last longer and work better next time you need it.

3. Use a Strong, Waterproof Cover

A good cover is one of the best ways to protect your mower from the elements. Here are your options:

Buy a lawn mower cover designed to fit your model. These are waterproof, durable, and shaped to cover the whole machine.
If you don’t want to buy a special cover, a heavy-duty tarp works well too. Just make sure it’s large enough to wrap around the mower completely.

Once the mower is covered:

Secure the tarp or cover tightly using bungee cords, straps, or rope.
Make sure the cover is snug so wind doesn’t blow it off.
Avoid loose areas where water can collect on top.

This will keep rain, snow, and dust away from your mower.

4. Elevate the Mower Off the Ground

You should never place your lawn mower directly on the ground for long-term storage. Moisture from the soil or grass can lead to rust and corrosion on the wheels and undercarriage.

To fix this, place the mower on something like:

Wooden planks
Bricks
A plastic pallet or crate

Lifting it just a few inches off the ground allows air to flow underneath and keeps the mower drier and safer.

5. Empty the Gas or Use a Fuel Stabilizer (for Gas Mowers)

If you’re putting the mower away for more than a few weeks, it’s a good idea to either:

Run the mower until the gas tank is empty, or
Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas to prevent it from going bad

Gas that sits too long can break down, damage the engine, and make it hard to start the mower later. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when handling fuel.

6. Remove the Battery (for Electric Mowers)

If you have a battery-powered lawn mower, always remove the battery before storing it outside. Cold weather, rain, and moisture can damage the battery or reduce its lifespan.

Take the battery inside your home or store it in a dry place like a cabinet or closet. Make sure it’s clean and fully charged before storage.

7. Check on the Mower Regularly

Even when you’ve covered and stored the mower properly, it’s still a good idea to check on it from time to time. Every couple of weeks:

Make sure the cover is still in place and not torn or loose
Look for signs of moisture or damage
Wipe off any water or snow that may have collected

Regular checks help you catch any problems early and prevent long-term damage.

8. Use an Outdoor Storage Box (Optional)

If you want extra protection but don’t want to build a shed, you can invest in a weatherproof outdoor storage box. These boxes are:

Made from plastic or resin
Waterproof and durable
Available in different sizes, including some big enough for lawn mowers

They offer a neat and tidy way to store your mower while keeping it fully protected from the weather.

How to Store a Lawn Mower Outside Without a Shed | Key Benefits

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1. Saves Space Indoors

You don’t need to take up room in your garage, basement, or home.
Great for small homes or those with limited indoor storage.

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2. Low-Cost Option

You avoid the high cost of building or buying a shed.
You can use affordable solutions like a tarp, cover, or DIY shelter.

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3. Easy Access

No need to unlock a shed or move things around.
Your mower is quickly accessible when it’s time to cut the grass.

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4. Flexible Storage Locations

You can store it wherever it’s most convenient in your yard.
You can move it easily if needed (especially if the weather changes).

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5. Encourages Simple Storage Solutions

Promotes the use of compact, weather-resistant covers and storage hacks.
Helps you stay organized and efficient with your outdoor tools.

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6. No Need for Construction

No need to build a foundation, frame, or permanent structure.
Perfect for renters or people who can’t build a shed due to local rules.

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7. Keeps Outdoor Equipment Together

If you already store tools or garden items outside, adding your mower keeps everything in one place.
Helps separate dirty yard equipment from cleaner indoor areas.

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8. Can Be Temporary or Seasonal

Outdoor storage is useful for short-term or seasonal use (e.g., summer months).
You can bring it indoors during the off-season or bad weather.

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9. Encourages Proper Maintenance Habits

Since it’s exposed to weather, you’re more likely to clean and check the mower regularly.
This can lead to better long-term care of your equipment.

Conclusion

Storing a lawn mower outside without a shed may seem tricky, but it’s very doable with the right steps. By cleaning it, covering it properly, lifting it off the ground, and storing it in a safe location, you can keep your mower in good condition for years—even if it stays outdoors.

Just remember:

Pick a dry spot
Use a waterproof cover
Elevate the mower
Protect the fuel and battery
Check on it regularly

Following these simple tips will help protect your investment and ensure your lawn mower starts easily whenever you need it.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it okay to store a lawn mower outside without a shed?

Yes, you can store a lawn mower outside without a shed as long as you take proper steps to protect it. Use a waterproof cover, elevate it off the ground, and choose a dry, sheltered location.

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2. Will storing my mower outside damage it?

It can be damaged if not stored properly. Exposure to rain, snow, and moisture can cause rust, fuel problems, and battery damage. However, using a cover and following protective steps can prevent this.

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3. What kind of cover should I use for outdoor mower storage?

Use a heavy-duty, waterproof cover designed for lawn mowers. A large tarp also works if secured tightly. The cover should protect the entire mower from rain, dirt, and UV rays.

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4. Can I leave my mower on the grass?

It’s not recommended. Grass holds moisture, which can lead to rust and corrosion. Place the mower on wood planks, bricks, or a pallet to keep it off the ground.

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5. How do I protect my gas mower’s fuel when storing outside?

If storing for a long time, either:

• Run the mower until the gas tank is empty, or

• Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from going bad and damaging the engine.

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6. What should I do with the battery in an electric mower?

Remove the battery and store it indoors in a dry place. Outdoor temperatures and moisture can reduce battery life or cause damage.

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7. How often should I check on my stored mower?

Check every 2–4 weeks. Make sure the cover is still secure, no water has gotten in, and no rust or moisture buildup is happening.

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8. Can I build a simple shelter instead of a shed?

Yes! You can build a DIY mini shelter using wood and a tarp or use a small weatherproof tent or storage box designed for outdoor tools and mowers.

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9. Is a mower storage box better than just using a tarp?

A storage box offers more protection from animals, wind, and heavy rain. It’s a better long-term option, while a tarp is a quick and cheap short-term solution.

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10. Do I need to clean the mower before storing it?

Absolutely. Cleaning removes grass, dirt, and moisture that can cause rust or mold. Always clean and dry your mower before covering it.