How to Clean Metal Tools

Clean up your metal tools.

There are not too many people who take the time to clean their metal tools. Usually, they are used and tossed into the garage to sit until they are needed the next time. Tools for the most part are less expensive than they used to be, so there is not so much value placed on them. However, your tools will last much longer if they are kept clean and dry. They will also look better hanging in your garage or in your toolbox, which might motivate you to use them a little more.

Things You'll Need

• Scrub brush
• Steel wool
• Newspaper
• WD-40
• Work gloves
• Rag

Instructions

1. Remove any loose dirt by scraping or brushing it off with a hand-held scrub brush. You might want to do this outside if you are working with very dirty tools like landscaping spades or pole diggers.

2. Spray the tool with a liberal coating of WD-40. This is a water-replacing lubricant and will loosen any rust or buildup that might have accumulated on the metal. Set the tool on a few newspapers while you wait for the WD-40 to work.

3. Scrub the tool with a ball of steel wool, working the lubricant around to remove any stubborn dirt. Wearing work gloves will prevent your hands from getting too dirty. Make sure you scrub the corners with a little extra pressure.

4. Wipe the tool down with the rag to remove all the loosened dirt and grime. As you wipe the dirt off, the WD-40 will leave a film of lubricant on the metal, protecting it from moisture and corrosion.

5. Rub down any wooden parts with a little mineral oil to keep them clean and to protect them from cracking. Plastic can be cleaned with the WD-40 rag you already used.

6. Store your newly cleaned metal tools in a dry place to stay clean until the next time you need them. If you store them in a tool box, as with smaller tools, keep a few paper towels or newspaper in the bottom to absorb extra moisture.