Why You Should Clean Your Lawn Mower
Keep your mower cutting cleanly and performing efficiently with proper cleaning and care.
Why Cleaning Matters
Your lawn mower works hard throughout the mowing season. Dirt, grass residue and plant debris inevitably build up on the blade and housing, reducing performance over time. Giving your mower a quick clean after every use maintains cutting quality, while occasional deep cleaning keeps it running efficiently for years to come.
Safety First
Always prioritise safety when cleaning your lawn mower. Wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, especially around the cutting blade.
Quick Cleaning After Every Use
Clean your mower after each mowing session to prevent build-up that can dull the blades. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sturdy gloves
- Wooden or silicone spatula
- Brush
- Specialised cleaning agent like STIHL Multiclean
Disconnect power before cleaning: remove the spark plug (petrol), unplug from power (electric), or remove the battery (cordless). Clean the grass collection box and housing with a brush. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth or use low-pressure water if needed. Avoid high-pressure cleaners.
Move the mower into the cleaning position as per your manual. For petrol models, keep the spark plug facing upwards to avoid oil leaks. Clean the underside using a scraper and brush — fresh residue is much easier to remove.
Once cleaned, your mower is ready for its next use! For long-term care, perform a deep clean after every 25 hours of operation.
Deep Cleaning Your Lawn Mower
After approximately 25 hours of use, perform a deep clean and check the blade condition. Inspect for cracks or dullness — if the blade has reached its wear limit or shows signs of damage, replace it immediately.
Remove the blade as directed in your manual and take it to a STIHL dealer for professional sharpening and balancing. Regular maintenance extends blade life and ensures smooth cutting performance.
Cleaning Tips by Mower Type
- Petrol lawn mower: Clean the air filter and spark plug regularly; avoid getting water into the engine.
- Electric lawn mower: Use a dry cleaning method — excessive moisture can damage internal components.
- Cordless lawn mower: Keep the battery dry and store it in a cool, frost-free environment.
Winter Storage
Before storing your mower for winter, perform a full deep clean. Check all components, sharpen or replace the blade, and ensure your mower is dry before storing it in a clean, dry space.
Summary: How to Clean a Lawn Mower
- Give your mower a light clean after every use.
- Perform a deep clean every 25 hours of operation or before winter storage.
- Inspect and sharpen the cutting blade regularly.
- Clean and maintain the air filter, spark plug, and housing.