Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all become far more aware of hygiene – but has it ever occurred to you to clean your garden tools? Cleaning your tools after each use is a great gardening habit to get into. Here’s a handy guide to keeping your garden tools clean and how best to do so.
Why should I clean my garden tools?
Garden tools that are kept clean will be easier and more effective to use. Keeping them disinfected will help to stop the spread of plant diseases, and clean garden tools are also less likely to deteriorate, meaning they will last longer and be more cost-effective.
How to clean garden tools
Cutting tools
The blades of tools such as secateurs, pruning saws, shears and loppers can get sticky with sap, and over time may become glued together. Wearing gloves, the first step is to remove any dried sap using wire wool or a saucepan scourer. If a required, a lubricant and water displacement spray, such as WD40, can be used to loosen any dirt, removing the residue with a clean cloth once the metal is clean. At this point, you can also oil the tool by dropping oil into the pivot point before opening and closing the tool several times to make sure it’s well oiled. Store tools in a dry, dust-free place if possible.
Cultivation tools
Trowels and larger tools such as spades, forks, hoes and rakes can be cleaned using a stiff scrubbing brush to remove dirt. If they are very muddy, they may require hosing down first, before using an old towel or rag to dry. Most modern tools are made from stainless steel, so may not need oiling as they did in the past. However, the rustproofing does vary, so infrequent oiling may still be needed.
How to disinfect garden tools
Disinfecting garden tools can help to prevent the spread of plant diseases such as blight, and canker. It may also be important if you share tools, as disinfecting will help stop the spread of COVID-19. It is particularly important to clean any used tools that may have touched contaminated plants or soil. Initially, you can avoid transferring contaminated soil by brushing off spades, forks and so on at the site where they were used.
All garden tools can be disinfected by using a product such as Jeyes Fluid. A multi-purpose product like this can be used for all sorts of outdoor tasks, from cleaning the greenhouse or patio to unblocking the drain. Apply Jeyes Fluid to the used blades of any garden tools and leave for 15 to 20 minutes before wiping away the residue. This will ensure any pathogens are killed. Use an old towel or rag to dry.
Don’t forget to disinfect any brushes, cloths, rags or towels after use. It is also wise to disinfect the soles of gardening boots once any contaminated soil has been removed.
