The last cut of the year is the perfect time to look after your mower, because the most common spring problem we hear about (a mower that won't start) usually starts with how it was put away in autumn. Twenty minutes now saves a lot of pulling on the cord in April.

This guide is for our 4-stroke petrol lawnmowers, such as the 17" self-drive and hand-push mowers. They run on petrol in the tank and separate engine oil, not mixed fuel. (For 2-stroke machines like strimmers and blowers, see our winter storage guide for two-stroke engines.)

1. Deal with the fuel

Petrol goes stale over a winter, and E10 in particular can leave deposits that block the carburettor. You have two options:

• Run it dry: on the last cut, let the mower run until it stops, so no fuel sits in the carburettor.
• Or drain it into a suitable fuel can and use it up in the car or another machine.

2. Change the oil

Old oil holds dirt and acids that sit against the engine all winter. With the engine warm (not hot) and the spark plug cap removed:

1. Tip the mower on its side with the air filter facing up, so oil can't run into the filter or carburettor.
2. Drain the old oil from the filler into a container. Take it to your local recycling centre, never down the drain.
3. Stand the mower level and refill with SAE30 4-stroke oil to the mark on the dipstick. Don't overfill.

3. Clean underneath

With the plug cap still off, scrape the dried grass from under the deck. Wet grass left there over winter holds moisture against the steel and rusts the deck. A plastic scraper and a stiff brush do the job.

4. Air filter and spark plug

• Remove the air filter and tap it clean. If it's oily or falling apart, replace it.
• Check the spark plug. If it's black or worn, a new one is a cheap fix for spring starting.

5. Check the blade

A blunt blade tears grass rather than cutting it, which leaves brown tips. Check for nicks and bends now. Get it sharpened or replaced over winter so you're ready for the first cut.

6. Store it properly

• Somewhere dry: a shed or garage, not under a tarpaulin in the garden.
• Fold the handle carefully so the cables don't kink.
• Keep the grass bag clean and dry so it doesn't go mouldy.

Come spring, put in fresh fuel, check the oil and you should be mowing in a couple of pulls. If anything needs replacing, our spare parts team can help.