How to Maintain Your Metal Garden Tools 

Keeping your garden tools clean and well-maintained not only extends their lifespan but also makes your gardening easier and more enjoyable.

Well-Maintained Tools Are Good for Plant Health!

Using clean, sharp, and well-maintained tools doesn't just make garden work easier (and safer) for you —it’s essential for the health of your plants. Here's why:

Clean Cuts Heal Faster: Sharp blades make precise, clean cuts that heal quickly. Jagged or torn cuts from dull tools can damage plant tissue, slowing recovery and increasing stress.

Prevents Disease Spread: Dirty tools can harbour bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Regular cleaning and oiling prevent the transfer of pathogens from one plant to another, reducing the risk of disease outbreaks.

Reduces Plant Stress: Well-maintained tools minimise bruising and tearing, which helps plants retain energy and nutrients for growth rather than recovery.

Improves Precision: Sharp tools give you better control, allowing for more accurate pruning that supports proper shape, airflow, and light penetration—key factors in healthy growth.

In short, caring for your tools is caring for your garden. Healthy tools = healthy cuts = healthy plants.

Use Camellia Oil to Keep your Tools in Top Shape.

What Should You Use to Clean Your Tools?

Aside from a stiff brush, warm soapy water and a dry cloth, the best kept secret for keeping tools in tip top shape is to use Camellia Oil. Camellia Oil has been trusted by Japanese craftsmen for centuries to protect metal tools from rust and corrosion—making it the perfect choice for your pruners, shears, trowels, and spades.

Follow this simple guide to keep your tools in top shape!

🛠️ What You’ll Need:

✔️ A bucket of warm, soapy water
✔️ A stiff brush or steel wool
✔️ A clean, dry cloth
✔️ Fine sandpaper (for rust removal, if needed)
✔️ Camellia Oil
✔️ A soft rag or applicator brush

📝 Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

1️⃣ Clean Your Tools After Every Use

Dirt and moisture can lead to rust and dull blades. After gardening:
🔹 Scrub off soil and plant residue using a stiff brush and soapy water.
🔹 For stubborn grime, use steel wool or fine sandpaper.
🔹 Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup.

2️⃣ Remove Rust & Resharpen Blades

If you notice rust:
🔹 Use fine sandpaper or steel wool to gently scrub away any rust spots.
🔹 If needed, sharpen pruners and shears with a sharpening stone or file for a clean cut.

Use a Sharpening Steel to Sharpen Your Garden Tools

3️⃣ Apply Camellia Oil for Protection

Once clean and dry, applya thin layer of Camellia Oil to all metal surfaces:
🔹 Dip a soft cloth or brush into the oil and rub it over the blades and metal parts.
🔹 Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess to prevent buildup.
🔹 For moving parts (like pruners), add a drop of oil to the joints to keep them smooth.

4️⃣ Store Properly

🔹 Always store tools in a dry place, preferably hanging up or in a tool shed.
🔹 For long-term storage, apply a slightly thicker layer of Camellia Oil to prevent rust.

Let us know your favourite tool maintenance tips and check out our range of awesome garden tools in store or online!