How to Clean and Store Gardening Tools for the Winter

Putting garden tools away properly for the winter can add years to the life of your equipment. Your tools will be protected from rust and wear, and better yet, they'll be ready to go the moment spring fever hits on that first balmy day next year.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Penetrating Oil
• Work Gloves
• Paste Wax
• Red Paint
• Steel Wool Pads
• Wire Brushes
• Large Bucket
• Metal Files
• Sandpaper

1. Scrape off any excess mud or dirt. Use a stick to knock off large pieces and a wire brush for tougher spots. If the soil is really caked on, you may need to let the tool soak in a bucket of water for a few minutes before tackling it again.
2. Wipe off the tool with an old rag and let it dry thoroughly.
3. Remove any rust by rubbing it vigorously with a small piece of steel wool. (Be sure to wear gloves.)
4. Sharpen the tool, if it has a sharp portion (this includes spades), with a file made especially for sharpening tools. Hold the tool steady against a solid object, such as a tool bench, and draw the file repeatedly across the edge at a 45-degree angle.
5. Condition wooden handles by sanding any rough or splintery portions with sandpaper. Follow up by rubbing paste wax over the handle.
6. Spray metal parts with a penetrating lubricating oil to protect from rust.
7. Store in a dry spot. Avoid leaving tools on the floors of garages or other places likely to get damp during the winter.

Tips & Warnings

• Protect wooden handles and make tools easier to find by giving them a coat of red paint before putting them away for the winter.
• Never leave garden hoses outside over the winter, as this dramatically increases their chances of springing leaks. Instead, drain the hoses at the end of the season and hang them in a garage or other protected spot until spring.

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