4 Places You Should Never Store Your Lawn Mower (and Where to Put It Instead) Avoid costly mistakes with these storage tips. Close Credit: Cappi Thompson / Getty Images Your lawn mower bears a lot of responsibility when it comes to the care and keeping of your yard—and you likely paid a pretty penny for it and would prefer to protect that investment. Whether it’s a gas or electric model, your lawn mower is deserving of proper storage when not in use. Below, our experts share where to avoid storing your lawn mower and what to look for to find the perfect spot to keep your lawn mower in pristine condition. Chris Ramos, gardening expert at Blain's Farm & Fleet Angelika Zaber, lawn care specialist for Online Turf These Are the Worst Times of Day to Mow Your Lawn, According to Experts What (and Where) to Avoid When inspecting a location that you'd like to store your mower in—whether an electric or gas model—look for any signs of high humidity and dampness. “These can trap moisture and cause your machine to go rusty over time,” warns lawn care specialist Angelika Zaber. “Check whether the location gets flooded, too. Sitting in water may cause a range of issues to your machine that may be difficult and costly to fix later.” Be sure to also check the physical safety of the location. “If it’s easily accessible to anyone, the chance of your mower getting stolen is much bigger,” Zaber says. In particular, you'll want to steer clear of the following four areas when it comes to lawn mower storage. 01 of 04 Anywhere Outdoors Credit: Jupiterimages / Getty Images If stored outside, your mower is going to be exposed to cold temperatures, direct sunlight, and damp conditions. “As a result, the ultraviolet rays can weaken and fade plastic parts, while the moisture may result in your mower going rusty,” Zaber says. If you must store your mower outside, invest in a waterproof cover and store it in an elevated location to minimize the risk of it sitting in water after heavy rainfall. 02 of 04 Near Corrosive Materials Credit: Robin Gentry / Getty Images It’s important to keep the mower away from corrosive materials, says Chris Ramos, gardening expert at Blain's Farm & Fleet. “Corrosives such as cleaners, fertilizers, or other chemicals can ruin the mower if spilled,” Ramos says. Is a Gas or Electric Lawn Mower Better? One Could Save You Big in the Long Run 03 of 04 On the Wall Credit: Sheila Fitzpatrick / Getty Images Most electric mowers are designed and suitable for vertical storage, but it's always best to check your manufacturer’s guide first. “However, petrol mowers are too heavy to be stored this way and can also experience leakage—resulting in fuel dripping onto the floor or into the engine of the machine,” Zaber wars. So, if you have a gas mower, avoid storing via wall shelves or hooks. Fuel leakage is highly flammable and could create a slipping or a fire hazard. 04 of 04 Cold, Damp Storage While a shed and garage are usually considered ideal places to store your lawn mower, Zaber says to be sure it’s well ventilated. “Otherwise, the mower is still going to be exposed to trapped moisture, causing corrosion and rust to your machine,” she says. 9 Garden Shed Ideas That Blend Style and Storage Lawn Mower Storage Tips Credit: Nickbeer / Getty Images While most of the same guidelines apply to both electric and gas mowers, Ramos says pay special attention to your electric mower’s battery. “Keep the battery charged and stored in a stable environment to prevent discharge,” he advises. “With gas mowers, simply follow the general rules about dryness, flat surfaces, and avoiding corrosive materials.” Still stumped as to where to store your lawn mower? Consider a weatherproof storage container. These containers are usually made of sturdy plastic and can be broken down and moved, if needed. You’ll still need to protect your lawn mower with a cover designed to protect against any moisture that might creep in. You can also consider renting a storage facility for the season. Not all facilities allow small engines, so be sure to check the guidelines before signing any paperwork. You might also need to empty the fuel tank (or remove the battery) before tucking it away, which could get tedious during the spring and summer months. However, if you’re looking for a place to park it for the winter, this might be a good option if you’re short on space. Explore more: Garden Landscaping