Last summer, I left my lawn mower outside during a sudden storm. I watched the rain pour down and thought, can I leave my lawn mower outside in the rain, or did I just mess it up? If you’ve ever wondered the same, you’re not alone.
I’ve made a few mistakes with my mower over the years. I’ve also learned how to fix them—and how to avoid them. In this guide, I’ll share what happens when your mower gets wet, how to protect it, and whether your zero-turn mower can handle the rain.
Let’s walk through it together—so your mower stays safe and ready to roll.
The Short Answer: Is It Okay to Leave a Lawn Mower in the Rain?
Yes, it’s okay—sometimes. But it’s not the best idea.
Leaving your mower in the rain once or twice won’t destroy it. It can handle light weather. But if it keeps getting wet? That’s when problems start.
I’ve left mine out in the rain before. One summer night, I forgot to bring it in. The next morning, it gave me trouble. It was slow to start and made weird sounds. It still worked, but I could tell something was off.
What Happens When a Lawn Mower Gets Wet?
Rain can get into places it shouldn’t. The engine. The spark plug. Even the air filter. Water can cause rust. If it’s an electric mower, it could mess with the wires or battery.
Quick Answer: A little rain is okay—but not all the time. Water can damage the engine, wiring, or cause rust.
Why One Rainstorm Won’t Ruin It
Most mowers are tough. They can take some rain. The parts are made to last. If it only gets wet once, you’re probably fine.
But if it happens a lot? That’s when damage adds up. Water plus time equals trouble.
If you’re asking, “Is it okey to leave a lawn mower in the rain?”—here’s the deal: it’s okay once in a while, but it’s best to keep it dry. A quick mistake won’t break it. But don’t make it a habit.
My Personal Experience with Rain and Lawn Mowers
One Saturday, I finished mowing and told myself I’d put the mower away “in a minute.” You know how that goes. I got distracted, went inside, and forgot all about it. That night, the sky opened up. It rained hard—Texas thunderstorm hard. And yep, my mower was still out there.
The next morning, I walked out and saw it soaked. The seat had puddles. The gas cap was wet. I felt that pit in my stomach. I thought, Did I just ruin my mower? But here’s the short answer: it didn’t die—but it wasn’t happy either.
When I tried to start it, it hesitated. The engine cranked slower than usual. Once it got going, it sputtered a bit. Nothing major broke, but it was clear that rain had messed with something. The spark plug was damp, and the air filter felt a little soggy.
What I learned? One rainy night won’t kill a mower. But leave it out too often, and small issues start to pile up. Water finds its way in, and over time, rust and wear show up fast. That day, I made it a rule: no more “I’ll do it later.” Now I cover my mower—every time.
Short answer for voice search: Leaving your mower in the rain once may not ruin it—but it can lead to slow starts, moisture in key parts, and long-term wear.
What Really Happens When a Lawn Mower Gets Wet?
When rain hits your mower, water gets into places it shouldn’t. It can sneak into the engine, the spark plug, or the air filter. On electric mowers, it may reach the wires or battery. That’s when problems start.
A spark plug that gets wet won’t fire right. A soggy air filter can choke the engine. Wet wires can cause shorts or weird power issues. If your mower is electric, it may stop working until things dry out.
If it only got rained on once, you’ll likely be okay. Your mower might start slow or sound funny, but it should bounce back. Most gas mowers can take a little water. They’re built for the outdoors. Just dry it off and give it time.
But if rain hits your mower often, that’s when the real damage begins. Water plus time leads to rust. And rust is bad news. It eats away at metal. It can get into bolts, bearings, and the engine. Once it spreads, it’s hard to stop.
Electric mowers are even more at risk. Their motors and batteries aren’t made for a lot of moisture. If water gets in too often, parts may corrode or stop working. That kind of damage is pricey to fix.
Think of it like a pair of sneakers. Leave them out once, they’ll dry. But leave them out over and over, and they fall apart. Your mower works the same way. It’s strong—but not rainproof forever.
That’s why I always say: a little rain won’t wreck your mower. But if you leave it out often, small problems will add up fast. Keep it dry when you can. It’s the easiest way to avoid costly repairs.
Can My Zero Turn Mower Get Rained On?
Yes, your zero-turn mower can get rained on—but that doesn’t mean it should. I learned that the hard way one summer when I left mine out during a downpour. I figured, “It’s built tough, it’ll be fine.” And for the most part, it was. It started up the next day and ran just like normal. But a few weeks later, I noticed rust on the deck, the seat started showing wear faster, and the buttons on the control panel felt a little sticky. That’s when I realized: rain doesn’t wreck it right away—but it starts the clock on wear and tear.
Zero-turn mowers are definitely built sturdier than your average mower. The frame is solid steel. Many parts are sealed or coated to hold up under tough conditions. But even the strongest mower has weak spots when it comes to water. Moisture can creep into electrical components, spark plugs, or the ignition system. And once it’s in, it doesn’t leave quietly. It sits, rusts, and corrodes from the inside out.
I used to think a few rain showers weren’t a big deal. But water and time are like a slow leak—they do damage bit by bit. Even if your zero-turn seems fine after getting soaked, you could be looking at long-term issues down the line. Think of it like leaving your phone out in the rain. It might power on, but damage can still happen under the surface.
These machines cost thousands. It’s just not worth risking it. These days, I keep a heavy-duty waterproof cover in my shed. If clouds roll in and I’m done mowing, I just throw it over the seat and controls. It takes thirty seconds and gives me peace of mind. Zero-turns may be workhorses, but they’re not waterproof tanks.
So yes, your zero-turn mower can handle a little rain—but don’t make a habit of it. They’re tough, but not indestructible. Keep it dry when you can, and you’ll avoid repairs, rust, and early wear.
How to Protect Your Lawn Mower from Rain and Moisture
The best way to protect your mower from rain? Keep it dry. Rain doesn’t ruin it right away, but it can cause slow damage. That’s why it’s smart to take small steps now.
Use a Waterproof Cover or Tarp
A good cover is a must. I use a thick, waterproof one I bought online. It takes me ten seconds to throw it over the mower when I’m done. That’s all it takes.
If you don’t have a cover, use a tarp. Tie it down so the wind doesn’t blow it off. This helps keep the engine, seat, and wires dry.
Raise It Off the Ground
Don’t just think about rain falling down—think about water below too. Wet grass or mud under your mower can cause rust. That happened to me once. The deck rusted even though the top was dry.
Now I park mine on bricks. Just two inches off the ground makes a big difference.
Use a Covered Spot
No shed? No problem. Park it under a porch, tree, or carport. Even light cover helps. A friend of mine parks his under a deck, and it still looks new after years.
Any cover is better than none. It keeps the rain off the top and slows down wear.
Store It Inside for the Long Haul
When mowing season is done, put your mower somewhere dry. A shed or garage is best. But a strong plastic box can work too. I used one for a full winter, and it held up great.
Keeping your mower inside for the season keeps it safe from rain, sun, and rust.
Check It After Rain
If your mower gets wet, don’t just leave it. Dry it off right away. Wipe down the seat and body. Check the air filter. Take out the spark plug and dry it too.
One time, I forgot to do this. A week later, I found mold under the seat. Now I always do a quick check.
Also, spray the blades and wheels with a little oil. This helps stop rust before it starts. It only takes a few minutes.
Signs Your Mower Has Been Damaged by Rain
Sometimes, the signs are small—but they matter. After a rainy night, you might not notice anything at first. But over time, things start to show. If you’re wondering whether the rain has hurt your mower, here’s what to look for.
- Trouble Starting the Engine
Short answer: Rain can make your mower hard to start.
If your mower suddenly needs a few extra pulls to fire up, water might’ve found its way in. A wet spark plug or soggy air filter can slow things down. One time after a heavy storm, mine cranked for what felt like forever. It finally started—but I knew something wasn’t right. If it hesitates or makes weird noises, that’s your mower saying, “Hey, I’m not happy.” - Rust on Metal Parts
Short answer: Rust means moisture has been sitting too long.
Rust is the slow killer. It doesn’t show up right away—but give it a few days, and boom, you’ll see those reddish spots creeping in. I once left my mower parked on wet grass for a week. The bottom of the deck had rust bubbles starting to form. Now I always raise it off the ground. Rust means water’s been working behind the scenes. - Mold or Mildew Around the Fuel Tank or Seat
Short answer: Mold grows when water stays trapped in tight spots.
Ever lifted your mower’s seat after a rain and caught a musty whiff? That’s mold. It loves dark, damp spaces—like under the seat or around the gas cap. I once found green fuzz under mine. Gross. Now I dry it off right away. Mold doesn’t wreck the engine, but it sure makes your mower feel neglected. - Electrical Issues (Especially in Electric Mowers)
Short answer: Water and wires don’t mix.
Electric mowers are great—but rain is their enemy. If buttons stop working, lights blink weirdly, or the mower won’t turn on, water might’ve gotten into the wiring or battery. A friend of mine had an electric model that shorted out after one too many wet mowings. It wasn’t covered under warranty either. Moisture plus electronics? Bad combo.
What to Do If Your Mower Gets Caught in the Rain
Short answer: If your mower gets wet, don’t panic—just act fast. A few quick steps can save you from costly repairs.
Step 1: Dry It Off—Right Away
First thing’s first: grab a towel. Wipe down every surface you can reach. Focus on the seat, engine cover, control panel, and especially any exposed wires or buttons. I once left my mower out overnight, and when I went to start it the next morning, the seat was like a mini swimming pool. Lesson learned: dry it fast or deal with mildew later.
Quick tip for snippets: Drying your mower immediately helps prevent rust and mold from forming.
Step 2: Check the Air Filter and Spark Plug
The air filter is like your mower’s lungs—if it’s soaked, it can’t breathe. Pull it out and see if it’s wet. If it is, lay it in the sun or swap it with a dry one if you’ve got a spare. Same goes for the spark plug. If it’s damp, your mower might not start or could sputter and stall.
I had this happen once after a sudden storm. I thought my mower was dead, but drying the spark plug did the trick.
Short answer: A wet air filter or spark plug can stop your mower from starting—always check both after rain.
Step 3: Let the Engine Dry Before You Try to Start It
I know—it’s tempting to crank it up and “see if it works.” But give it some time. Open the hood or engine compartment if possible and let it breathe. Set it in the sun or a dry spot with good airflow. This helps moisture evaporate from places you can’t reach with a towel.
Trust me, patience here pays off. One time I rushed it, and all I got was a sputtering mess.
Voice search friendly: Don’t start your mower while it’s wet—let the engine dry first to avoid internal damage.
Step 4: Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts
Rainwater washes away grease, leaving metal parts vulnerable. Once everything is dry, spray a little lubricant on the blades, wheels, and any joints or moving pieces. I keep a can of WD-40 or silicone spray in my shed just for this.
Even if your mower starts fine, skipping this step can lead to rust later. Think of it like oiling a bike chain after riding through puddles—it just makes sense.
Snippet-ready: Lubricating moving parts after rain protects against rust and keeps your mower running smooth.
Step 5: Know When to Call a Repair Shop
If your mower still won’t start—or sounds off—after you’ve dried it and checked the basics, it might be time to call in help. Especially if it’s electric. Water inside the motor or battery compartment can be tricky (and dangerous). Don’t push it if you’re unsure.
A neighbor of mine once kept trying to start his wet electric mower. It shorted out completely. He ended up replacing the control board, which wasn’t cheap.
Short answer: If your mower still won’t start after drying, it’s safest to call a pro—especially for electric models.
Should You Leave a Lawn Mower Outside All Season?
Let me put it this way: would you leave your phone, your bike, or even your favorite pair of shoes outside for months? Probably not. So why do so many folks leave their lawn mower out all season and hope for the best?
I get it—space is tight. Not everyone has a shed or garage. For a while, I didn’t either. One fall, I figured, “It’s just sitting there—I’ll deal with it later.” I threw a tarp over it, kind of, and left it next to the fence. Fast forward to spring… the mower looked like it had been through a swamp. The seat was cracked, rust had crept up the deck, and some critter had decided the engine bay made a great winter home.
Leaving your mower outside all season is a slow way to ruin it. Rain sneaks in, sun breaks down the plastic, and moisture invites rust. Not to mention the surprise spiders or squirrels that might move in. It’s not just the rain—it’s the dew, the snow, the UV rays. All of it adds up.
The damage isn’t always instant. But over time? You’ll start noticing things: a battery that won’t hold charge, a starter that grinds, or a deck that flakes paint like old wallpaper. Even the tires can go soft or crack if they’re sitting in the same spot too long.
If storage is a challenge, don’t worry—there are options for every budget. I’ve seen folks build DIY mower boxes out of pallets and plastic sheeting. You can grab a weatherproof outdoor storage bin for less than a tank of gas. A heavy-duty tarp, tied down properly, still beats leaving it bare. Heck, I once tucked mine under an old patio table with a plastic sheet draped over it. It wasn’t pretty—but it worked.
Mowers aren’t cheap. And they’re not made to live outside full-time. A little effort now saves you a lot later—trust me. Protect it like you would any tool you depend on. A dry mower is a happy mower.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—but Plan Ahead
So, can you leave your lawn mower in the rain? Short answer: yes, once or twice probably won’t kill it—but doing it often will wear it down fast.
I’ve learned that lesson the hard way. I used to shrug it off—figured a little rain wouldn’t hurt. And to be fair, one storm didn’t destroy my mower. But it did give me warning signs: slow starts, rust creeping in, even mold under the seat. That was my wake-up call.
Now, I plan ahead—especially during rainy season. I keep a heavy-duty cover in the shed. If I’m done mowing and see clouds rolling in, I throw it on. Takes less than a minute. I also park my mower off the ground—usually on bricks—to keep the deck from sitting in wet grass. If I know it’s going to rain for days, I move it under the carport or even into the garage if I have the space.
Quick takeaway: The best way to avoid mower problems is to keep it dry and check it after rain.
The truth is, mowers are tough—but not invincible. Just like your favorite boots, they need a little care if you want them to last. A soaked mower might still run today, but over time, water starts causing slow, silent damage. You might not notice it until something big fails.
If I had to give one piece of advice? Don’t treat your mower like it’s disposable. These machines are an investment—especially zero-turn models. A little protection now can save you hundreds (or even thousands) down the line. Even a simple tarp, some bricks, or a covered spot makes a world of difference.
Bottom line: Don’t panic if your mower gets rained on—but don’t ignore it either. Wipe it down, check the parts, and keep it covered when you can.
Rain happens. Life gets busy. But with just a few small habits, you can keep your mower running smooth season after season. You’ve got this—and your mower will thank you for it.
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