Easy cleaning hacks to make your toolkit last longer and look good as new
With many of us using our spare time at home to delve into DIY projects, one important thing we may have forgotten about is cleaning our trusty tools.
Making time to regularly maintain your tools will help them last longer, as well as preventing rust and saving you money in the long run.
To help us extend the lifespan of our toolkits, Lisa Evans from MyJobQuote has shared her key tips on how best to clean your DIY essentials.
When it comes to products, Evans recommends using degreasers like WD-40 to loosen stuck tools and dislodge lingering dirt. A strong degreaser is also great for banishing any adhesives that may end up on your tools.
Handheld tools
For cleaning handheld tools like saws, screwdrivers and hammers, you'll need a degreaser or cleaning solution, steel wool, hot water, wire brush and household oil.
Leave the tools to soak in the cleaning solution for at least 30 minutes – the longer you leave them, the easier cleaning should be.
After soaking your tools, use the wire brush to scrub them clean and then steel wool to strip away any rust.
For tools that are prone to rusting easily, you should coat them in household oil or WD-40 every six months using a soft rag.
Power tools
To give power tools such as electric drills and chainsaws the best clean, make sure they're unplugged from any power supply. For woodworking tools that may have collected sawdust over time, don't forget to clear them out using a compressed air duster before cleaning.
Next, wipe down your power tools using a cleaning solution and rag, staying clear of the power cables and motor. Use a toothbrush or pick to clean around any buttons and toggles.
To finish, wipe down your tools using a dry rag to remove residue. Check any metal parts for rust – as with handheld tools, this can be removed using steel wool.
DIY solutions
If you don't have any rust-removing products in your garage, there are plenty of DIY hacks to help you make your own cheap alternative to shop-bought solutions.
Soaking your handtools in cold black tea for at least an hour can work a charm. For more stubborn rust, leave your handtools in white vinegar overnight, then give them a good scrub with a wire brush.
Adding salt to your DIY solution is a great way to speed up the cleaning process. Evans recommends mixing your vinegar solution with bicarbonate of soda and water to help neutralise the acid.
Whether you're giving your tools a quick scrub or a more thorough clean, be sure to oil them every six months to keep them in good working order for your next DIY project.
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