How to Winterize Yard Tools

Very important for mowers, where stuck-on soil traps moisture next to the metal, leading to rust. For safety’s sake, disconnect the spark plug and remove the blade, then use a brush and a putty knife to clean off dirt and clippings, rinsing with water, if needed. (Make sure the carburetor and air filter are above the motor when you do this so that oil doesn’t drain into them.) If you see rust, scrape off as much as you can with a wire brush, then spray the area with a rust-inhibiting enamel.