When grass cutting season ends, that bulky lawn mower becomes an eyesore hogging up valuable space. But with some ingenious thinking, you can find specialized lawn mower storage ideas to keep it out of sight and out of mind. This article explores smart ideas beyond cramming it in the corner of the garage. Let's get creative about where and how to discreetly stash the mower when not in use!

Hoist It Overhead

One of the best uses of space is storing the mower overhead. This opens up the floor area below for other uses.

• Construct a pulley system with ropes and hooks anchored to ceiling beams or rafters. Attach to the mower handle to easily lift up and down.
• Use an engine hoist on casters to lift the mower overhead, then roll aside. Reinforce mounting points first.
• Affix strong eye hooks in the shed ceiling. Tie the mower to them via a rope sling threaded through the handle and body.
• For garages, install a professional ceiling mount kit with a manual winch to raise and lower the mower.

Discreetly Conceal in the Landscape

You don't need to store the mower inside. Cleverly disguise it right in the backyard!

• Use a trellis, lattice, or foliage to obscure the mower along fences, walls, or garden beds.
• Neatly stash it under the stairs or deck, covered by a tarp.
• Build an A-frame shelter from pallets to camouflage it by the garage.
• Construct a small wheeled shed to subtly roll around the yard as needed.

Fashion a Mower Sling

A simple but effective approach is fashioning a sling to hang the mower anywhere.

• Use strong canvas straps with grommets and hooks threaded under the mower body and handle.
• Tie ropes to eye hooks screwed into overhead beams. Hoist the mower overhead and secure in place.
• Thread straps through pulleys anchored above to lift the mower by pulling the rope ends.

Maximize Vertical Wall Space

Most garages offer ample unused vertical real estate. Take advantage of this to get the mower off the floor.

• Secure the mower upright on walls using custom racks, brackets, or clamps.
• Stand it on sturdy shelving ledges firmly anchored to wall studs.
• Use an adjustable strap system to lift and hang it from hooks in the ceiling rafters.
• Build a wooden brace or teepee for the mower to stand upright in.

Repurpose a Closet or Cabinet

Reclaim a cluttered closet or cabinet by converting it into dedicated mower storage.

• Use shelves, hooks, and clamps to fit the mower snugly inside.
• Install a hasp lock on the door for security.
• Add a ventilation fan to prevent gas vapor buildup.
• Slide the mower in and out like a drawer using a wall mounted track system.

Integrate into the Landscape

With creative camouflaging, discreetly hide the mower right in your yard.

• Blend it among flower beds, bushes, trellises or yard art structures.
• Bury it upright under wood mulch or decorative rocks.
• Neatly stash behind foliage in a small garden shed or greenhouse.
• Tuck it under a stairway or deck, covered by a tarp.

Stand It On End

Storing the mower vertically minimizes the footprint. Allow the base and wheels to hold it upright.

• Secure it on sturdy rear wheels against a wall or in a corner.
• Build an enclosed wheeled box it slots into like a holster.
• Create a wooden brace for freestanding storage in a shed.
• Rest it on the lower handle when tipped forward.

Construct a Custom Mower Shed

For ultimate organized storage, build a shed fitted to your mower's exact dimensions.

• Size it specifically so every inch of space is maximized.
• Add shelves, hooks, pulleys or ramps for convenient mower access.
• Install ventilation holes to prevent moisture buildup.
• Use hasp locks on the doors for security.

Install an Overhead Pulley System

This space-saving system uses ropes and pulleys mounted overhead to lift and lower the mower.

• Anchor sturdy eye bolts into ceiling beams. Thread ropes through and attach to the mower.
• Use carabiners on the ropes for easily detaching the mower when needed.
• Add a rope wheel near the mower for easier raising and lowering.
• Carefully balance the weight before fully hoisting overhead.

Alternative Outdoor Storage Spots

• Inside empty decorative planters or pots
• Under a back deck or staircase
• Within a repurposed refrigerator or cabinet
• Buried in mulch beds around trees or shrubs
• Behind trellises or yard art structures
• Inside a small backyard barn, shed, or greenhouse

Lawn Mower Storage Tips

Once you've found the ideal unconventional storage spot, keep these tips in mind:

• Allow the mower to fully cool before storing in enclosed spaces.
• Drain the gas tank and disconnect the spark plug before long term storage.
• Periodically charge the battery on electric mowers.
• Keep the mower covered and protected from sun, rain, and snow.
• Avoid stacking heavy objects on top that could bend parts.
• Check for rodent nests or damage before first use after storage.

With clever thinking, you can likely find unused space perfect for secreting away that bulky mower! Free up your garage and shed square footage this winter. Go vertical with lifts and pulleys. Hide in plain sight with camouflage. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mower Storage

What are some unique outdoor storage solutions for lawn mowers?

Get creative by disguising with yard art or plants, stashing under porches, placing in old fridges or cabinets, covering in sheds or greenhouses, burying in mulch beds, and other concealment ideas blending into the landscape.

What safety tips should be followed when storing a mower overhead?

Ensure pulley systems and hooks are very securely anchored into studs or beams. Use carabiners on ropes for easy detachment. Balance the weight properly before fully hoisting overhead. Leave ropes with some slack - don't overtighten pulleys. Periodically inspect hardware.

How can you store a lawn mower vertically on its end?

Place securely on sturdy rear wheels against a wall or in a corner. Lash to studs with straps to prevent tipping. Build a wooden brace or platform fitted to the footprint. Stand inside a box with rails to slot in snugly.

What preparation steps are needed before storing the mower?

Always allow the engine to fully cool first. Disconnect the spark plug. Drain all fuel and run the mower dry. Clean the mowing deck. Apply lubricant to metal parts. Charge battery on electric models.

What are some creative ways to store a mower in a shed?

Optimize space by storing vertically on wall hooks or racks. Use overhead pulleys to lift out of the way. Build ramps or angled shelves for parking on end. Secure in place on shelves with bungees. Take advantage of any unused vertical space. Ensure good ventilation.

How often should you check on a stored lawn mower?

Ideally inspect the mower every 4-6 weeks. Look for developing problems like flat tires or rusted parts. Check fluid levels and charge the battery. Wipe off accumulated dust and debris. Periodically start the engine to lubricate cylinders.

What precautions should be taken when storing a mower outside?

Always cover securely with a waterproof tarp. Lift on blocks or pallets to avoid damp ground. Tie down with straps for wind gusts. Ensure mower is fully cooled before covering to prevent fire risk. Place away from yard chemicals and fuels.

Where are poor long term storage locations for a lawn mower?

Avoid excess moisture, extreme temperatures, sun exposure, etc. Do not store with gas remaining in the tank indoors. Keep away from ignition sources if gas vapors present. Never pile stuff atop the mower that could damage parts.

What are signs of issues with a stored lawn mower?

Watch for flat tires, rust, nests, frayed wires, cracked hoses, debris accumulation, musty odor, standing water, mold, mildew, charging problems, or corroded battery terminals. These can indicate problems during storage.