Care of Garden Tools

[Maria]

Things You'll Need
Hose, Paste Wax, Petroleum Jelly, Cloths,
Boiled Linseed Oil, Can of Water, Bicycle Grips


Solution:
Keeping your garden tools in good shape is easy to do and will save you time and money in the long run. Here are some tips to help you do just that!

1. Clean your tools after each use. Rinse them down with the hose and scrub off any dirt. Taking a couple minutes to get the dirt off will make it easier the next time you need them.

2. Use some automotive paste wax or some petroleum jelly to wipe the tools down before you put them away to keep them from rusting.

3. Use boiled linseed oil to care for wooden handles. Work outdoors and wear some gloves. Rub the oil into the entire length of the handle. Then use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess; the oil will keep your wooden handles from drying out and splintering. (Put the cloth into a can of water when you're finished, so there is no chance of spontaneous combustion).

4. If you're using small tools, slide some bicycle grips over the handles, they will cushion your hand so you're less likely to get blisters. Plus the bike grips will protect the handles from getting chipped and banged up.

[Maria]

ORGANIZE YOUR SMALL GARDEN TOOLS.



Yard work can be overwhelming, but if you use these few simple tips, I promise that work will be easier for you.

1. Before you make a hundred trips to grab different tools, why not use a plastic bucket as a caddie for the tools so you have everything right there when you need it? (I use an empty kitter litter bucket.) It's a great size and it's easy enough to carry my small tools.

2. Or for those large rakes and shovels, try a big plastic garbage can on wheels. Weight down the base with some bricks or something so that it doesn't tip over, and then you can wheel it around the yard with no problems.

[donna1956]

An easy way to keep your tools from rusting, spray with WD40. It's quick, easy and works.

[Mark]

Thanks for the tip, Donna, appreciate it.