When grass cutting season wraps up, that bulky lawn mower storage ideas becomes an annoyance as it takes up valuable space in the garage or shed. But there's no need to trip over it all winter. With a bit of creativity, you can find a specialized storage spot that saves space and keeps your mower protected.
This article covers unique ideas beyond just shoving it in a corner. Let's explore innovative ways to store your lawn mower at the end of summer.
Take Advantage of Wall Space
Most garages offer plenty of vertical real estate that goes unused. Take advantage of this blank canvas to get your mower off the floor.
- Construct a simple wooden wall rack fitted to your mower's dimensions. Use 2x4s or plywood to build an upright holder.
- Affix large shed hooks to ceiling beams or wall studs. Use strong rope to fashion a sling that lifts and hangs the mower by its handle.
- Install shelf brackets for the mower to stand vertically on its rear wheels. Be sure they are securely mounted.
- Use an electric hoist and pulley system to crank the mower overhead to the ceiling for compact storage.
Build a Custom Mower Shed
Tuck your mower away out of sight in its own dedicated storage shed. Grab an open corner of the garage or yard and construct an enclosed hutch.
- Size it specifically to your mower's measurements so space is used efficiently.
- Add ventilation holes and windows to prevent moisture buildup while stored.
- Install hasp locks to make the shed secure from kids or theft.
- Use wooden ramps, pulleys, or angled shelves inside for easy mower access.
Hide It in Plain Sight
Who says you need to stash the mower inside? Carefully conceal it right in the backyard for proximity.
- Use trellises, lattice, or foliage to disguise the mower in garden beds or against fences.
- Build an A-frame shelter from old pallets to cover it discreetly near the garage.
- Add wheels to a small wooden shed so you can roll it around the yard as needed.
Fashion a Sling
A simple but effective approach is to fashion a sling that allows lifting and hanging the mower anywhere.
- Use heavy canvas straps with grommets and hooks on the ends. Thread under mower handle and body.
- Make a rope harness secured to eye hooks screwed into overhead beams. Hoist mower and tie off neatly.
- Attach pulleys to the ceiling and run straps through them to easily lift mower by pulling rope.
Stand It On End
Storing the mower vertically is a space efficient solution. Allow the wheels to hold it steady.
- Place on rear wheels against wall and lash securely to prevent tipping.
- Stand in a sturdy wood teepee or brace for freestanding storage.
- Build an enclosed wheeled box it slots into upright like a holster.
Maximize Shed Storage
Even small sheds can hold a mower creatively. Optimize the layout.
- Use shelves alongside walls, with bungees securing mower in place.
- Install angled wooden brackets to hold mower up on rear wheels.
- Hang from ceiling rafters by pulley system.
- Use French cleats on walls to hold mower accessories like ramps and funnels.
Mower Garage Ceiling Lift
This deluxe option elevates your mower overhead and out of the way.
- Install a professional track ceiling mount kit with a manual winch system.
- Securely attach heavy-duty ropes and pulleys to garage ceiling beams.
- Use an engine hoist on casters to lift mower and move aside.
- Make sure mounting points are reinforced and weight balanced before lifting.
Repurpose a Closet
Take back a cluttered coat closet by turning it into dedicated mower storage.
- Install hasp lock so household members don't accidentally open into mower.
- Use a wall mounted track system to slide mower in and out like a drawer.
- Affix wooden shelving, hooks, and clamps so mower sits securely.
- Add ventilation fan to prevent gas fumes from accumulating.
Other Unique Mower Storage Spots
- On top of tall utility shelves
- Inside a repurposed Whirlpool-style fridge
- Hung on exterior side of garage wall
- Under staircases, decks, or elevated porches
- In the bed of a truck or trailer, covered securely
- Inside a mini backyard barn or garden shed
- Buried upright under mulch in flower beds
Lawn Mower Storage Tips
Once you've found the perfect mower hideaway, keep these tips in mind:
- Allow mower to fully cool before storing in enclosed space.
- Drain gas tank and disconnect spark plug before long term storage.
- Periodically rotate tires and charge battery of electric mowers.
- Keep mower covered and protected from sun, rain, snow.
- Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of it.
- Check hoses, belts, wiring for vermin damage if stored in garage or shed.
With a little ingenuity, you can find lots of unused space around your property perfect for tucking away that bulky mower. No need to keep tripping over it in the middle of the garage all winter long.
Think vertically. Get creative with slings and lifts. And contain it out of sight by repurposing closets, corners, or cabinets just for your mower. You'll reclaim a lot of freed up room.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mower Storage
What are some creative lawn mower storage ideas?
Get creative by storing vertically with wall hooks or racks, building an enclosed mower closet, disguising it with yard art or plants, repurposing a fridge or cabinet, pulley lifts overhead or in the rafters, and more clever concealment ideas.
How do you create a lift system to hang a mower?
You can install pulleys anchored securely to ceiling beams. Run straps through the pulleys and attach to the mower handle. This allows a rope and pulley system to easily lift the mower overhead for storage by pulling the rope.
What should you avoid when storing your mower?
Avoid excess moisture, extreme temps, piling stuff on top of it, leaving gas or debris inside. This can lead to rust, seized engine parts, stuck wheels, or fire hazards if gas vapors accumulate and ignite.
Where are the best places to store a mower?
A dry, covered garage or shed is ideal. You can also store in a shelter discreetly around the yard. Indoors, a mower closet, cabinet, or pulley lift system works well. Make sure outdoor storage spots protect from the elements.
How do you securely store a mower on a wall?
Build sturdy wooden brackets fitted to the mower size and weight. Use heavy duty hooks, clamps, or chains to hold mower in place on slanted shelves. Stand upright on the rear wheels. Ensure mounting points anchor securely in wall studs.
What preparations are needed before storing the mower?
Always allow the mower to fully cool before storage. Disconnect the spark plug wire and drain all fuel from the tank. Run the mower until empty to prevent gummed up carburetors. Clean the mowing deck. Apply lubricant to metal parts.
Should you start a stored mower periodically?
Yes, it's recommended to start the mower every 4-6 weeks. Let it run for a few minutes to lubricate the engine and cycle all the fluids. This prevents seized up engine parts during long term storage.
Can you store a mower outside? What precautions should be taken?
Outdoor storage is OK if needed. Avoid placing directly on damp ground. Lift up on blocks or pallets. Anchor securely with straps or bungees during windy conditions. Always cover with a waterproof tarp. Ensure mower is cooled down before covering.
Where should you not store your lawn mower?
Avoid storing places with extreme temps, direct sun exposure, excessive moisture or humidity. Never store indoors with gas remaining in the tank or where gasoline vapors could reach ignition sources like furnaces or water heaters.
How often should you check on a stored mower?
Ideally, check over your stored mower at least monthly. Look for any developing problems like flat tires, rust, or rodent damage. Check fluid levels if applicable and top off. Keep battery charged if electric model. Wipe away dust and debris that may accumulate.