Garden Tools and How to Look After Them.
Well cared-for tools last longer and perform better. Here is how to look after them.
Time needed
1 hour for full lawnmower service.
20 minutes for tool sharpening or treating wooden tools
You will need
• General-purpose oil
• Fuel for your lawnmower
• Cross-head screwdriver
• Stiff brush
• Wire brush
• Hose
• Metal file
• Sharpening stone
• Linseed oil
• Old rags
What to do
In quieter months spend some time in your tool shed dedicated to maintenance. Remember tools do need looking after all year round and regular checks will keep you safe.
• Before and after every use spray hedgecutter blades with oil to lubricate and prevent rust.
• Check the cables and plugs of power tools for damage and make sure safety guards are intact.
• Damaged power tools and lawnmower blades are best repaired or replaced by professionals.
• Always make sure your garden machines have fresh fuel and keep oil levels topped up.
• Disconnect sparkplugs when machines are not in use and before embarking on a service.
• Unplug electric mowers before cleaning then scrub grass and soil from mower blades with a stiff brush and hose.
• Remove rust from blades of secateurs, knives, hoes and spades with a wire brush then sharpen using a sharpening stone lubricated with general purpose oil. Wipe over blades with an oily rag before storing.
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Time needed
1 hour for full lawnmower service.
20 minutes for tool sharpening or treating wooden tools
You will need
• General-purpose oil
• Fuel for your lawnmower
• Cross-head screwdriver
• Stiff brush
• Wire brush
• Hose
• Metal file
• Sharpening stone
• Linseed oil
• Old rags
What to do
In quieter months spend some time in your tool shed dedicated to maintenance. Remember tools do need looking after all year round and regular checks will keep you safe.
• Before and after every use spray hedgecutter blades with oil to lubricate and prevent rust.
• Check the cables and plugs of power tools for damage and make sure safety guards are intact.
• Damaged power tools and lawnmower blades are best repaired or replaced by professionals.
• Always make sure your garden machines have fresh fuel and keep oil levels topped up.
• Disconnect sparkplugs when machines are not in use and before embarking on a service.
• Unplug electric mowers before cleaning then scrub grass and soil from mower blades with a stiff brush and hose.
• Remove rust from blades of secateurs, knives, hoes and spades with a wire brush then sharpen using a sharpening stone lubricated with general purpose oil. Wipe over blades with an oily rag before storing.
Find Recommended Gardners