The days are getting longer, the sun is making an appearance, and lawns across the UK are starting to grow again. After months of winter weather, your garden is waking up — but is your lawn mower ready?
Before you tackle the first cut of the season, it’s important to make sure your mower is in good condition. A few simple checks now can prevent breakdowns, uneven cuts, and costly repairs later.
Here’s how to get your lawn mower ready for spring.
1. Give It a Thorough Clean
If your mower was stored over winter, dust, cobwebs, and leftover debris may have built up.
- Brush off dirt and debris
- Clean under the cutting deck
- Check air vents for blockages
- Wipe down handles and controls
Built-up grass and dirt can affect performance and even cause rust over time.
2. Check the Blade Condition
A sharp blade is essential for a clean, healthy cut.
- Inspect for chips or damage
- Sharpen if the blade is dull
- Replace if heavily worn
Blunt blades tear grass rather than cut it, which can leave your lawn looking brown and unhealthy.
3. Inspect Oil and Fuel (Petrol Mowers)
For petrol lawn mowers:
- Check oil levels and top up if needed
- Replace old fuel if it’s been sitting since autumn
- Inspect the spark plug for wear
Old fuel can cause starting problems, so it’s best to use fresh petrol at the start of the season.
4. Check the Battery (Cordless Mowers)
If you use a cordless mower:
- Fully charge the battery
- Inspect for signs of damage
- Ensure it holds charge properly
Cold storage can affect battery performance, so early testing avoids frustration when grass growth picks up.
5. Check Cables, Belts and Wheels
Over time, parts can loosen or wear down.
- Inspect cables for fraying
- Check wheels move freely
- Ensure the cutting height adjusts smoothly
These small checks improve safety and performance.
6. Set the Right Cutting Height
For the first mow of the year:
- Set blades higher than usual
- Never cut more than one-third of the grass height
- Only mow when the lawn is dry
Early spring grass is still delicate, so a gentle first cut encourages healthy growth.
7. Consider a Spring Service
If your mower struggles to start or hasn’t been serviced recently, spring is the ideal time to book maintenance. A professional service can improve performance and extend the life of your machine.
Spring growth can happen quickly once temperatures consistently reach around 8–10°C. Being prepared means you won’t be caught out when your lawn suddenly needs cutting every week.
A mower that’s cleaned, sharpened, and properly maintained will:
- Start more reliably
- Cut more evenly
- Last longer
Final Thoughts
The sun may be out, but don’t rush into mowing without checking your equipment first. A little preparation now ensures your lawn mower is ready to handle the busy season ahead.
For lawn mowers, spare parts, batteries, oils, and maintenance accessories, Mowers Online has everything you need to start the season right.
