Winterize Your Lawn Equipment: Simple Steps to Protect Your Tools

It’s getting chilly out, which means it’s time to get ready for winter! Before the snow falls, there are a few easy things you can do to protect your tools and products while setting yourself up for a smooth spring. Let's get into the best practices for storing unused products, putting away hoses, and winterizing your mower and spreader.

Whether it’s fertilizer, grass seed, or herbicide, don’t just toss these in the corner of the garage and forget about them.

1. Keep them sealed tight: Moisture is the biggest enemy, especially for grass seed. Store bags in airtight containers whenever possible.

2. Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid temperature extremes like unheated sheds that freeze or garages that heat up during the day.

3. Label everything: It’s easy to forget which product is which by spring. A simple label can save a lot of guesswork.

4. Check liquid products: Partially used fertilizers or herbicides may have storage recommendations on the label. Make sure you follow them to prevent freezing or damage.

This step is quick but can save you from major headaches next spring.

1. Drain all water: Any leftover water can freeze, expand, and crack your hoses.

2. Coil and store indoors: Garages or basements are ideal. If you have a sprinkler system, check out our blog, How to Winterize Sprinkler Lines: Step-by-Step Guide.

A little maintenance now goes a long way toward keeping your mower in top shape.

1. Check under the deck: Remove built-up grass and debris to prevent rust and maintain airflow.

2. Change oil and air filter: Dirty oil sitting over winter isn’t good for your engine.

3. Sharpen or replace the blade: You’ll appreciate a clean, smooth cut in spring.

4. Store in a dry spot: Cover your mower if possible to protect it from dust and moisture.

Whether you used it for fertilizer, seed, or pre-emergent, a quick cleaning can help prevent rust and keep it functioning properly.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

• Note for Pacer Pro™ users: This spreader comes with a salt plate for optional winter use.

Following these steps—storing your products, draining hoses, prepping your mower, and cleaning your spreader—will make a big difference when it’s time to fire everything back up in spring.

Take an hour or two before snow falls to check these off your list, and your future self will thank you!