How to Clean Lawn Mower: Complete Guide

A well-maintained lawn mower not only ensures a clean, even cut but also extends the lifespan of the machine. Grass buildup, dirt, and debris can clog essential components, leading to reduced performance and potential damage. Regular cleaning helps prevent rust, keeps the blades sharp, and ensures smooth operation.

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to cleaning different types of lawn mowers, including traditional and robotic models. From essential tools and materials to specific cleaning techniques, learn how to clean lawn mower to keep your mower in top condition for a healthier lawn and a longer-lasting machine.

Can You Wash a Lawn Mower? Why to Clean?

Absolutely! Washing your lawn mower isn’t just possible—it’s a smart way to keep it running smoothly. Over time, grass clippings, dirt, and debris build up, affecting performance and even leading to long-term damage. A clean mower cuts better, lasts longer, and saves you from costly repairs down the road.

How to Clean a Lawn Mower?

Keeping your lawn mower clean doesn’t take much effort, but it makes a big difference in performance and longevity. A quick rinse after each use prevents buildup, while an occasional deep clean keeps everything running smoothly. Let’s break it down into two simple steps.

Clean the Lawn Mower After Every Use

Giving your mower a quick clean after each use keeps it from getting bogged down with stuck-on grass and dirt. The fresher the debris, the easier it is to remove. Here’s what you’ll need:

What You Need:

• Sturdy gloves
• Brush or lawn mower cleaning brush
• Wooden or silicone spatula
• Damp cloth
• Garden hose (low pressure)
• Mild detergent or specialized cleaning agent

Steps to Follow:

1. Power Down Safely: Before doing anything, make sure the mower is off. Unplug electric models, remove the battery from cordless mowers, and disconnect the spark plug on gas-powered ones. This prevents accidental starts.
2. Empty the Grass Collection Box:Shake out any remaining clippings and rinse the box with water. Let it dry completely before storing it to prevent mold or mildew.
3. Brush Off Loose Debris: Use a hand brush to remove dry grass from the deck, wheels, and undercarriage. Avoid metal brushes to prevent scratches.
4. Scrape Stubborn Build-Up: Use a wooden or silicone spatula to gently remove stuck-on grass and dirt from the deck and blade area.
5. Wipe the Exterior: A damp cloth with mild detergent works well for removing dust, pollen, and any residue from the top of the mower.
6. Rinse (If Allowed):Some mowers have a washout port for easy cleaning—attach a garden hose at low pressure to flush out remaining dirt. If using a hose without a port, keep water pressure low to avoid damaging sensitive parts.
7. Check the Blades: Inspect for any debris caught around the blades and wipe them down if needed. Sharp, clean blades make all the difference for a neat cut.
8. Let It Dry: Store your mower in a dry place, making sure no moisture lingers to prevent rust.

Deep Clean the Lawn Mower

A thorough cleaning every 25 hours of operation (or before winter storage) helps prevent long-term damage and keeps essential parts running efficiently. Here is how to wash a lawn mower deeply:

What You Need:

• Socket wrench or screwdriver
• Putty knife or plastic scraper
• Degreaser or soapy water
• Compressed air or soft brush
• Lubricant (WD-40 or silicone spray)
• Lint-free cloth

Steps to Follow:

1. Turn Off and Disconnect: Unplug, remove the battery, or disconnect the spark plug for safety. If it’s a gas mower, make sure the spark plug is pointing upward to avoid oil leaks.
2. Remove the Blade: Use a socket wrench to take off the blade for better access to the deck. Clean the blade separately, checking for cracks or dull edges. If sharpening is needed, take it to a professional to ensure proper balancing.
3. Scrape Off Buildup: A plastic scraper or putty knife works best for removing hardened grass and dirt from the deck. Be thorough, as excessive buildup can reduce airflow and mowing efficiency.
4. Clean the Air Filter: Tap it gently to remove loose debris. If it’s still dirty, use a soft brush or compressed air. If it looks clogged or discolored, replace it for optimal performance.
5. Inspect the Spark Plug: Wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth. If you’ve had trouble starting your mower, it might be time for a replacement (usually every three years).
6. Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the wheels, height adjusters, and other moving components to prevent rust and stiffness.
7. Rinse the Collection Box: If your mower has a grass collection basket, wash it thoroughly with a hose to remove built-up dirt and prevent mold. Let it dry completely before reattaching.
8. Reassemble and Store Properly:Once everything is clean and dry, reinstall the blade and store your mower in a dry, covered space to protect it from the elements.

How to Clean Robotic Mowers?

Robotic mowers make lawn care effortless, but they still need regular cleaning to perform at their best. Some advanced models like eufy E18 Robot Lawn Mower rely on AI visual navigation and hands-free auto mapping, so keeping their sensors and moving parts clean is necessary to ensure smooth operation and accurate navigation. Here’s how to clean a robot lawn mower properly:

1. Turn Off and Remove the Battery: Prevent electrical damage by ensuring the mower is powered down before cleaning.
2. Brush Off Loose Dirt:Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust and grass clippings. Avoid using water directly on electronic parts.
3. Clean the Underside:Use a damp cloth or mild soap solution to wipe the deck and blades. A small hand vacuum can help remove stubborn dirt.
4. Check Sensors and Wheels:Wipe down sensors with a dry microfiber cloth to maintain accuracy. Clean wheels using a soft brush to ensure smooth movement.
5. Avoid Using Water or Pressure Washers: Most robotic mowersincluding eufy E15 Robot Lawn Mower are not fully waterproof, so avoid hosing them down to prevent internal damage.
   

Tips for Maintaining Lawnmowers

Beyond routine cleaning, a few simple habits can prevent common issues and keep your mower in top shape throughout the mowing season.

1. Keep the Blades Sharp: Sharpen your blades every 20 to 25 hours of mowing or whenever you notice uneven cuts. If the blade has chips or excessive wear, it may be time for a replacement.
2. Check and Clean the Air Filter: A clogged air filter reduces airflow to the engine, leading to poor performance or even starting issues. For gas mowers, check the air filter every two months. Tap it out to remove dirt or replace it if it looks too dirty.
3. Monitor the Spark Plug: A worn-out spark plug can make your mower hard to start and affect fuel efficiency. Inspect it at least once a season, cleaning off any buildup with a lint-free cloth.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts: Over time, dirt and debris can cause wheels, height adjusters, and other moving components to become stiff. Apply silicone spray or a light machine oil to keep everything moving freely. Regular lubrication reduces wear and prevents rust.
5. Store Properly After Use:Where and how you store your mower impacts its longevity. Keep it in a dry, covered area to prevent rust and weather damage. For gas mowers, avoid tipping them on their side incorrectly—always keep the spark plug facing upward if you need to tilt it.

Conclusion

Keeping your lawn mower clean helps to maintain its efficiency and longevity. Regular cleaning prevents clogging, reduces rust, and enhances overall performance. Whether you own a gas, electric, or robotic mower, proper cleaning techniques ensure smooth operation and extend its lifespan. With the right tools and a consistent maintenance routine, you can enjoy a well-kept lawn and a reliable mower for years to come.

FAQs

Is it okay to hose down a lawn mower?

Yes, but only if your mower is designed for water-resistant cleaning. Gas-powered and electric mowers should never be pressure-washed to avoid damaging the engine or electrical components. Instead, use a damp cloth or brush to remove debris. For robotic mowers, avoid direct water exposure and clean them with a soft brush or dry cloth to protect their sensors and electronic parts.

What's the best way to clean a lawn mower?

The best way to clean a lawn mower is to remove debris manually, use a scraper for hardened grass, and wipe it down with a mild soap solution. For the deck, a low-pressure hose can be used if the manufacturer allows it.

How to clean the bottom of a lawn mower?

To clean the bottom, tilt the mower carefully (for gas mowers, tilt with the air filter facing up). Use a scraper or putty knife to remove buildup, then wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid excessive water to prevent rust and engine damage.

How often should you clean the lawn mower?

Clean your lawn mower after every use to prevent grass buildup and keep it running smoothly. Perform a deep clean every 25 hours of operation or at least once per season to remove hardened debris, check the air filter, and inspect the blades. Regular maintenance extends lifespan and improves mowing efficiency.