When you're shopping for a new garden tool, chances are you'll choose a low-priced/low-quality or high-priced/high-quality tool.

High-quality tools are designed to last for years, but they must be cared for and maintained regularly.

Why is cleaning garden tools important?

There are many benefits to cleaning your garden tools.

It helps prevent the spread of diseases and fungi from plant to plant and season to season.

Cleaning keeps your tools useful and ensures their peak performance - which in turn makes gardening easier and reduces wear and tear on your work.

Good cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your garden tools, which is very important because good tools don't come cheap. Maximize the life of your shovels, rakes, hoes, brush cutters, pruning shears, and more, and save a lot of money by delaying replacement.

Proper storage is also important. Good storage issues are as important as good cleaning and maintenance. The right storage location and the right conditions can prevent degradation from rusting and problems such as bending, warping, and breakage. Keeping garden tools away from the elements when not in use is essential for long life and high functionality.

How to clean digging and tillage tools

Any tools that come into contact with the ground should be cleaned before storage. The mud can be blown off with a water spray, but if the dirt has hardened, you may need to soak the metal parts first and then wipe them off with an old rag.

Other tools that come into contact with the ground, such as digging tools and hoes, benefit from an occasional coat of oil, which helps protect the blade or tines from moisture and rust. Start by placing a wire brush over the tool to remove any deep-rooted dirt, soap buildup, and rust spots. The front and back of the work blade, first wipe clean with a rag. Finish by applying the oil with a clean step. You can use any vegetable oil for the job; just avoid petroleum motor oil, which may contaminate your soil.

Sharpen Digging Tool

Tools with clean, sharp edges can cut into the soil more easily. To sharpen shovels, trowels, etc., run a metal file through the edge of the blade. Keeping the angle shallow, work along the front and back of the blade. If so, use a vise to hold the tool as you work. Finally, seal the blade edge with oil.

Don't forget to take care of the wooden handle. Start with a simple clean, then sand smooth and lightly rub the wooden handle with linseed oil. Thorough cleaning not only means sterile tools but also ensures your tools last longer, just think of it as protecting your investment.

Maintaining Pruning Tools

Well-maintained pruning tools make pruning crisper, reducing the risk of introducing plant diseases and reducing the physical effort of pruning. First, make sure your trimming tools are clean. If necessary, follow our steps above to clean the tools and wash them with soapy water and dry them.

Both pruning shears and shears sharpen in almost the same way. Hold the tool firmly in place and run the sharpener through the edge of the blade. Use a file or sharpening stone that fits the size of the blade. Only sharpen the cutting blade itself, then work the stone in the same direction as the bevel. Smaller blades may require a circular motion. Two to five passes of the file or stone are required to complete the sharpening.

Now tighten any loose bolts on the tool. This is also a good time to order any needed replacement parts—for example, new blades, springs, or handles for hard-working pruning shears.

Finally, spray with tool lubricant. Don't forget to apply lube all over, especially after a lot of trimming. Take care of your tools and they will serve you well.

Storage Tool

Even if you know you'll be using your tools the next day, don't leave them haphazardly. After cleaning them, return the used items to the shed, where they will stay dry and possibly embroidery-free. A great way to store spatulas and trowels is to put them in a pot full of sand that has been soaked in oil. This helps keep the metal in good condition. Larger tools are best hung in a dry, ventilated shed. The pegboard will keep everything organized and accessible. Keep the tools you use frequently within easy reach, and place less-needed items more often.

If you have any other tips for maintaining tools, you can leave us a message!