Maintaining your garden tools - prepare for the winter

Maintaining Your Garden Tools:

The Post-Sharpening Care Guide

Maintaining your garden tools not only extends their lifespan but also ensures they function at their optimal level. Once you’ve gone through the process of sharpening your tools, there’s still a crucial step that many overlook: post-sharpening care. Properly tending to your tools after sharpening can mean the difference between a tool that lasts a season and one that lasts a lifetime.

-1. Thorough Cleaning-:

Before you even think about storing away your freshly sharpened tools, ensure they’re squeaky clean. Use a wire brush or putty knife to remove any lingering dirt or plant residue. For more stubborn grime, a mixture of dish soap and water will do the trick. Ensuring that tools are spotless is crucial as lingering dirt or moisture can rapidly lead to rust, especially on the sharp edges you’ve just honed.

-2. Dry Them Completely-:

After cleaning, it’s imperative to dry your tools thoroughly. Any trace of moisture left on the blades or other metal parts can quickly lead to corrosion. Wipe them down with an old towel or rag, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If you’re in a rush, a quick pass with a hairdryer or leaving them in direct sunlight for a while can ensure they’re bone dry.

-3. Apply Rust Prevention Spray-:

Now, for the crucial step. After sharpening and ensuring your tools are immaculate and dry, spray the blades and all metal parts with a quality rust-prevention spray. This step is vital, especially when you’re prepping your tools for winter storage. Winter months often bring increased humidity and moisture, and your tools, if left unprotected, can become breeding grounds for rust. The rust prevention spray forms a protective barrier on the metal surface, shielding it from any ambient moisture and dramatically reducing the chance of rust formation. We recommend WD40 or Rustoleum.

-4. Store with Care-:

Finally, store your tools in a cool, dry place. If possible, hang them up rather than letting them sit on a floor where they might come into contact with moisture. Remember, even with the rust prevention spray, proper storage is essential to further guarantee the longevity of your tools.

In summary, sharpening your garden tools is just one part of the tool maintenance process. By ensuring they’re clean, dry, and well-protected from rust, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smoother gardening experience when the new season arrives.