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As the grass slows and the temperature drops, it’s easy to forget about your robot lawn mower until spring rolls around again. But just like any garden tool or piece of technology, your mower needs a bit of TLC before it’s tucked away for the colder months.
Proper winter care helps to extend your mower’s lifespan, protect vital components like the battery and blades, and ensure a stress-free reactivation when the mowing season returns. Whether you own an advanced model like the Segway Navimow or a more basic unit, these tips will help you store your robot mower safely and effectively—keeping it in prime condition for the seasons ahead.
Before tucking your robot mower away for its winter break, it’s vital to give it a proper clean-up and check-over. A few simple maintenance steps now can help extend its life, protect key components from damage, and ensure it’s ready to perform flawlessly come spring.
Months of mowing can leave your robot mower coated in grass clippings, dust, and garden debris. A good clean not only keeps it looking fresh but also helps maintain optimal performance.
Remove grass clippings and debris: Use a soft brush, cloth, or plastic scraper to gently clean the chassis, wheels, and underside. Pay particular attention to the cutting deck, sensors, and the areas around the blades, where build-up is most common.
Avoid high-pressure washing: Even if your mower is water-resistant, avoid using jet washers or hosepipes near electrical components. A damp microfibre cloth is usually enough to do the job safely without risking water damage.
Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut and efficient mowing. Before storage, inspect your blades to avoid starting next season with a blunt or damaged set.
Check blade condition: Look for nicks, dull edges, or signs of corrosion. Dull blades tear rather than cut grass, which can weaken your lawn over time.
Replace if necessary: If your mower uses removable or snap-in blades, now’s a great time to swap them for fresh ones. Always use genuine manufacturer parts for compatibility and safety.
Now is also the time to perform a visual check of the mower’s key components.
Check for damage: Look over the housing, wheels, charging points, and connectors for signs of wear, cracks, or loose fittings.
Inspect seals and gaskets: Ensure rubber seals around access panels and charging contacts are in good condition. These keep out moisture, dirt, and insects during storage.
Don’t forget the digital side of your robot mower. Before you power it down for winter:
Update firmware: Open the mobile app and connect to your mower one last time this season. Check for and install any firmware updates to ensure bug fixes, performance tweaks, or new features are loaded before next spring’s first cut.
The battery is arguably the most valuable and delicate component in your robot mower. Incorrect storage can reduce its lifespan or cause it to fail prematurely.
Leaving the battery fully charged or completely flat can cause degradation over time.
Charge to optimal level: Most manufacturers recommend storing the battery at a mid-level charge—typically between 30% and 80%. This helps prevent over-discharge or swelling. Always refer to your mower’s user manual for model-specific guidance.
Some robot mowers offer the ability to remove or disconnect the battery for long-term storage.
Remove or disconnect: If your mower allows it and your manual recommends it, remove or disconnect the battery to prevent self-discharge. Store it in a cool, dry location away from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight.
Don’t forget the charging station, which often remains outdoors throughout the mowing season.
Clean charging contacts: Use a dry cloth to clean the metal charging points on both the mower and the station to prevent corrosion over winter.
Store the charging station indoors: Disconnect the charging station from the power supply and store it somewhere dry and frost-free. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it during storage to prevent damage to the housing or connectors.
Where you store your robot mower during the winter is just as important as how well you prepare it. Even with the best maintenance, poor storage conditions can lead to issues such as moisture damage, battery degradation, or even pest infestation.
Moisture and freezing temperatures are two of the biggest threats to your robot mower’s health during the off-season.
Ideal conditions: Aim to store your mower in a dry, cool, and frost-free space. A basement, garage, insulated shed, or utility room often provides suitable shelter—as long as the area stays dry and avoids large temperature swings.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can harm the battery and internal components, while very high temperatures can also degrade electronic systems. Avoid storing the mower in places like uninsulated garden sheds or lofts unless they’re climate-controlled or properly insulated.
Even in an indoor environment, your mower can become a target for pests or gather dust that could interfere with sensors or moving parts.
Cover the mower: Use a breathable protective cover to keep dust, dirt, and cobwebs at bay. Alternatively, the mower’s original packaging can provide a snug and secure enclosure during the winter months. Just ensure there’s no moisture trapped inside before sealing it up.
Elevate if possible: Placing the mower on a shelf, pallet, or workbench can help protect it from damp floors and reduce the risk of pests such as rodents or insects finding a way in. This also allows for better airflow around the mower and reduces contact with cold surfaces.
Q: What’s the most important thing to do before storing my robot mower for winter?
A: A thorough cleaning is paramount. Remove all grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the chassis, cutting deck, and wheels. Be sure to inspect the blades and check the mower body for any visible damage.
Q: Should I use a high-pressure washer to clean my robot mower?
A: It’s generally not recommended. While some mowers are water-resistant, high-pressure washing can damage sensitive electronics and seals. A damp cloth and soft brush will usually do the job safely.
Q: Do I need to replace the blades before winter storage?
A: It’s a good idea to inspect them. If the blades are dull or damaged, replace them now so your mower is ready to go when spring arrives. Always use blades recommended by the manufacturer.
Q: Is it necessary to update the mower’s software before storing it?
A: Yes. Updating the firmware before storage ensures the mower benefits from the latest performance improvements and fixes once reactivated.
Q: How should I charge the battery before storing my robot mower?
A: Most manufacturers recommend charging the battery to a mid-range level—typically between 30% and 80%. Avoid storing it fully charged or completely empty. Check your specific model’s manual for exact guidance.
Q: Should I disconnect the battery during winter storage?
A: Some models allow or advise disconnecting the battery to prevent self-discharge or deep drain. Always refer to your mower’s manual for instructions tailored to your device.
Q: What about the charging station? Does it need winter care too?
A: Absolutely. Clean the charging contacts on both the mower and the station, unplug the power supply, and store the charging station indoors in a dry, frost-free location.
Q: Where is the best place to store my robot lawn mower for the winter?
A: Store it in a dry, cool, and frost-free space. An insulated garage, basement, or shed is usually ideal. Avoid areas subject to freezing or extreme heat.
Q: Can I leave my robot mower outside under a cover for the winter?
A: This is not recommended. Freezing conditions can damage the battery and electronics, even with a cover. Indoor storage is the safest option.
Q: How can I protect my mower from dust and pests during storage?
A: Use a breathable fabric cover or return it to its original box. Elevating the mower off the ground on a shelf or platform can also help keep it away from moisture and small animals.
After a season of rest, your robot mower will be ready to return to action—but a few simple checks can ensure a smooth and trouble-free start. Taking just a few moments for re-activation preparation will help your mower operate efficiently from day one.
Before powering up, take a moment to review your mower’s user manual. Even if you’ve used it before, it’s a good refresher—particularly the sections on initial setup, troubleshooting, and software settings. Manufacturers may also include updated recommendations relevant to the latest firmware.
Give your mower a full battery charge before its first mowing session. This ensures maximum runtime and optimal performance, especially after months in storage. If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it according to the manual’s instructions before placing the mower on the charging station.
If your robot mower uses virtual boundaries, open the app and review the map to ensure everything is still correctly set. Updates or changes to your garden layout may require minor adjustments. If your mower uses a perimeter wire, visually inspect the cable for damage or disconnections.
Even if you checked or replaced the blades before storage, it’s worth giving them another quick inspection in spring. Make sure they are:
Sharp and clean
Securely fastened
Free from rust or corrosion
Dull or damaged blades can reduce cut quality and strain the mower’s motor.
Your robot lawn mower is a smart investment, and a bit of end-of-season care goes a long way in keeping it running at its best. From thorough cleaning and blade inspection to battery care and safe storage, these simple yet effective steps help prevent avoidable issues and ensure your mower is ready to roll when the grass starts growing again.
By following these winter storage guidelines, you’ll save yourself time, repairs, and frustration come spring. Treat your mower well over the winter, and it will reward you with effortless lawn care when the warmer weather returns.