How to look after garden tools properly this spring

As gardeners gear up for the upcoming season, their trusty garden tools inevitably accumulate wear and tear. Shears, pruners, secateurs and saws may develop scratches, dents, and rust over time. However, with proper maintenance and investment in caring for them, gardeners can ensure that their tools last for years, saving them money on replacements. To help make this easier, Henchman has shared an essential care and maintenance guide. 

Care and Cleaning 

Caring and cleaning for tools are crucial for their longevity. After a long day of gardening, it's important to wipe clean the blades and dry them after each use. While it doesn’t have to be a deep clean every time, it should be enough to make them look shiny and new. Sanitizing the blades is also essential to prevent disease spreading among plants. For stubborn residue, gardeners can consider using a garden tool cleaner or wire wool. Applying a multi-purpose oil can prevent rust from forming, and rubbing wooden handles with oil can prevent them from drying and cracking. 

Tool Servicing and Sharpening 

Regular servicing tasks such as sharpening blades, tightening screws and bolts, and sanding down wooden handles can prolong the life of garden tools. Sharp blades help keep plants healthy by ensuring clean cuts, promoting regrowth, and aiding water runoff.  

Henchman recommends using a whetstone to sharpen tool blades but be sure to soak the stone in water or oil before use. Several long consistent rubs in one direction should leave the blade razor sharp, but make sure you follow the guidelines from each manufacturer. Refrain from over-sharpening or sharpening unnecessarily - sometimes a clean is all the blades need. Gardeners who are using tools daily should try and sharpen them every few weeks. 

Remove Rust 

Even if garden tools have been a little neglected and have started to rust, they can still be saved! Henchman advises gardeners to scrape off surface dirt, then soak the tools in undiluted white vinegar and salt for 24 hours. Afterwards, they can then scrub the tools using sandpaper, steel wool, or a scouring pad and ensure thorough drying before applying a multi-purpose oil to prevent future rusting. 

Storage Recommendations 

Storing tools in a dry, clean space such as outdoor sheds or garages can protect them from adverse weather conditions. Wherever the tools are stored, ensure that it is not prone to holding moisture and dampening stationary tools. Hang equipment off the floor to allow for proper airing and easy access, and consider adding hooks, shelves, or pegboards for better organisation.  

If there isn’t enough storage room for larger garden tools and equipment, consider storing them outside and covering them with a tarp - but make sure to check that they can be stored outside first. Whatever the storage solution, ensure it is locked and secure! 

Explore Henchman’s range of tools and accessories designed to help gardeners create and maintain stunning gardens effortlessly.  

For more information, visit www.henchman.co.uk and explore the award-winning product range, including the renowned tripod ladders, perfect for ensuring safety when working at height. 

Ends

Editors notes

Henchman has been a pioneer of specialist garden ladders and safe hedge-cutting platforms since 1994, when it launched its first model at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Founded by father and son duo Mike and Tom Kitching, over the past three decades the company has evolved from a small family business to the leading garden ladder brand in the UK.

Based in Wiltshire, the dedicated design team at Henchman offers a wide range of unique products created to keep customers safe on uneven terrain while working at height.

Its collection includes the cutting-edge Fully Adjustable Tripod Ladder, Fully Adjustable PRO Tripod Ladder, the Hi-Step Platform, the Wheeled Henchman, as well as a range of large capacity wheelbarrows and accessories, all designed to make gardening a safe, sturdy and enjoyable experience.

Henchman has pioneered the way in ladder safety and is the first and only fully EN131 certified Tripod Ladder on the market in the UK and the rest of the world.

From the National Trust, to the England Rugby team and Royal Households, and not forgetting thousands of gardeners, DIY-enthusiasts and professionals, Henchman helps its customers get the job done, safely.