How to Clean Garden Shears
Garden shears are essential tools for any gardener, but they can get dirty and rust over time if they're not properly maintained. Cleaning your garden shears regularly is important to ensure that they stay in good condition and continue to work effectively.
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How to Clean Garden Shears
Dull, dirty, or rusty hand pruners that don’t open and close easily can ruin your day. Keeping your pruners dirt-free and sharp helps you cut smoothly, preventing stress on your hands. We want gardening to be enjoyable, and that includes pruning.
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Step By Step Guide to Cleaning Garden Shears
Disassemble the Shears
Before you start cleaning your garden shears, you should disassemble them to make the process easier. Use a screwdriver to loosen the bolt that holds the blades together, and then separate the two blades from each other.
If you do this before they get really bad, this is going to be easy, but if you have been putting this off, or are trying to save an old set, it might need some muscle or soaking before you can disassemble them.
Remove Any Debris
Use a wire brush or a toothbrush to remove any debris, dirt, or plant matter from the blades and the pivot point. Make sure to clean both sides of the blades thoroughly.
Soak in Vinegar
Fill a small container with white vinegar and soak the blades and the pivot point in the vinegar for about 10-15 minutes. This will help to dissolve any rust or mineral deposits that may have accumulated on the shears.
Scrub with Steel Wool
After soaking the shears in vinegar, use a piece of steel wool to scrub the blades and the pivot point. This will help to remove any remaining rust or buildup. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the blades.
Rinse and Dry
Once you've finished scrubbing the shears, rinse them off with water and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Make sure to dry the blades and the pivot point completely to prevent rust from forming again.
Remember, dry your shears after use too to prevent them from rusting, not just after cleaning them.
Reassemble and Lubricate
Reassemble the shears. Apply a small amount of oil or lubricant to the pivot point to ensure that the shears move smoothly.
Make sure the handles aren't broken and going to hurt your hands when you use them now that you have smooth-moving shears. No one wants cuts or blisters.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your garden shears clean and in good condition for years to come. Remember to clean your shears regularly, especially after each use, to prevent rust and buildup from accumulating.
You can use these same steps to rescue a pair of shears that you find in the shed of the house you just bought or from your parents or grandparents' house.
