Garden tools are a significant investment, and how you store them directly affects how long they last. The University of Illinois Extension notes that high-quality shovels, rakes, pruners, and hand trowels cost more but will last longer with proper care. Washington State University Extension adds that cleaning and disinfecting tools, even if not done after every use, should be a priority before winter storage. This guide walks through the steps to clean, protect, and store your garden tools so they are ready for the next season. For a full care routine, see our yard tool maintenance guide.
Cleaning tools before storage
The University of Illinois Extension recommends removing soil from tools with a wire brush, paint scraper, stiff brush, or a strong blast from a hose. Wipe the blades of small hand tools such as pruners or shears to remove sap or moisture. For stubborn sap, the Extension suggests using turpentine, alcohol, mineral spirits, or fine steel wool. After cleaning, oil metal surfaces lightly with a lubricant such as WD-40 to prevent rust. Wooden handles should be free of rough areas; sanding smooths these spots, and a protective coat of linseed oil, allowed to dry and then polished with a soft cloth, helps preserve the wood.
Washington State University Extension emphasizes that clean tools prevent the spread of disease around the garden. When working with infected plants or pruning diseased limbs, clean blades between each plant using rubbing alcohol, a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water), or a disinfectant. Sticky plant sap can be removed with paint thinner, followed by a wipe with a rag. For rust removal, WSU Extension advises soaking rusty tools in a weak vinegar-and-water solution (1:1) for 24 hours, then wiping dry and using steel wool. Severely rusted tools may require sanding with rough sandpaper or a wire bristle brush; a drill with a wire brush attachment can be used, but always wear safety glasses and use a light, circular motion. After any de-rusting, wipe the metal with a coat of oil.
For day-to-day maintenance, WSU Extension suggests setting up a cleaning station with a stiff wire brush, a rag, and a bucket filled with sand or kitty litter moistened with mineral or linseed oil. After gardening, use the wire brush to dislodge debris, rinse tools with water, dry them thoroughly, and drag the blade through the sand-and-oil mixture. The oil coating retards moisture and limits rust, while the sand provides abrasion to remove residual soil.
Storing hand tools and long-handled tools
The University of Illinois Extension states that tools should be stored off the ground and away from the elements in a shed, garage, or barn. Tools left outside can absorb moisture from wet grass and dew. Short-handled tools can be stored using a pegboard system; outlining the tools on the pegboard helps identify any missing items. Long-handled tools should be stored on a hanging rack or tool holder to prevent damage to edges.
Washington State University Extension reinforces that tools should be kept off the floor to prevent moisture, rust, and dulling. Hanging racks or a pegboard rack system are practical solutions. Wood-handled tools, in particular, should be stored indoors in a dry area. WSU Extension recommends sanding wooden handles with medium-grit sandpaper and rubbing them with a slightly moistened linseed oil rag twice each season. Allow all oil rags to dry in the open air to avoid the risk of combustion. For long-term storage at the end of the growing season, the University of Illinois Extension advises thoroughly cleaning all tool parts, sharpening or filing blades, and oiling metal and wood surfaces. For additional protection, a high-quality spray paint can be applied to metal surfaces.
Power equipment storage: mowers and fuel
According to the University of Illinois Extension’s mower maintenance guidance, it is important to clean off grass clippings after mowing. Clippings stuck to the bottom of the mower deck hold water, causing the metal to rust and shortening the equipment’s lifespan. Use a leaf blower or air compressor to blow off clippings, dust, and debris. Lift the engine cover to blow off dust and clippings that have accumulated around the engine and battery, being careful of wiring and hoses. Some mowers have a port to hook up a garden hose to clean underneath the deck; follow the manual’s instructions. Routinely inspect underneath the mower for accumulated clippings and scrape them off with a putty knife. Always disconnect the spark plug for gas-powered mowers or remove the battery for electric mowers before placing your hand near the blades. Our lawn mower maintenance checklist covers the rest.
Washington State University Extension suggests placing a waterproof cover over any machine, such as a lawn mower, that must be stored outside due to lack of storage space. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) notes that for chainsaws, proper storage may require draining the gas/oil mixture and disposing of fuel appropriately. Homeowners with gas-powered mowers should consult their owner’s manual for fuel storage instructions. The University of Illinois Extension also recommends changing the air filter at least once per year and the fuel filter annually as part of routine care before storage.
Chainsaw storage and battery care
Greenworks’ 40V 14-inch chainsaw operator manual specifies that before storing the machine, you should remove the battery pack, clean all unwanted material, remove all residual oil, and fit the scabbard on the guide bar and chain. When transporting or storing the chainsaw, always fit the guide bar cover. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. The CCOHS adds that chain saws should be returned to a service centre periodically (every few months to a year, depending on usage) to be inspected and serviced by trained staff. Before storage, check chains for excessive wear, inspect drive links, sprockets, cutters, and track for damage, and replace the bar if nicked or distorted.
For battery storage, the Greenworks manual states that when the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, and screws that can make a connection from one terminal to another. If the battery pack cracks or breaks, do not recharge or use it; discard and replace it. Cover the terminals with heavy-duty adhesive tape, and do not try to open the battery pack. If a leak develops, the released electrolytes are corrosive and toxic, avoid contact with eyes or skin, and do not swallow them. Take damaged batteries to a local recycling or disposal center. Always remove the battery pack from the machine before performing any maintenance or storage. See also our chainsaw maintenance guide.
Tool storage at a glance
| Tool type | How to store |
|---|---|
| Long-handled tools (shovels, rakes, hoes) | Hang on a rack or tool holder to keep edges off the floor and prevent moisture damage (University of Illinois Extension, Washington State University Extension). |
| Short-handled tools (trowels, hand pruners) | Store on a pegboard system; outline tools to spot missing items (University of Illinois Extension). |
| Pruners and shears | Clean, dry, lubricate the pivot point with a drop or two of oil, and store in a dry place (Washington State University Extension). |
| Wood-handled tools | Store indoors in a dry area; condition handles with linseed oil twice each season (Washington State University Extension, University of Illinois Extension). |
| Metal blades | Wipe with oil after cleaning to prevent rust (University of Illinois Extension). |
| Lawn mower | Clean deck of clippings, disconnect spark plug or remove battery, cover with waterproof cover if stored outside (University of Illinois Extension, Washington State University Extension). |
| Chainsaw (battery) | Remove battery, fit guide bar cover, clean, store in dry area (Greenworks operator manual). |
| Chainsaw (gas) | Drain fuel mixture, clean air filter and spark arrester, inspect chain and bar (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety). |
| Batteries (power tools) | Remove from tool, store away from metal objects, recycle damaged packs (Greenworks operator manual). |
Frequently asked questions
How often should I oil my garden tool handles?
Washington State University Extension recommends sanding wooden handles with medium-grit sandpaper and rubbing them with a slightly moistened linseed oil rag twice each season. The University of Illinois Extension suggests applying a protective coat of linseed oil, letting it dry, and polishing with a soft cloth. Both sources agree that regular oiling prevents drying and splitting.
Can I store my lawn mower outside over winter?
Washington State University Extension advises placing a waterproof cover over any machine that must be stored outside due to lack of storage space. However, the University of Illinois Extension stresses that you should first clean the deck thoroughly to remove grass clippings that hold moisture and cause rust. Always disconnect the spark plug or remove the battery before cleaning or storing the mower.
What should I do with a damaged lithium-ion battery?
Greenworks’ operator manual states that if a battery pack cracks or breaks, you should not recharge or use it. Discard and replace it. Cover the terminals with heavy-duty adhesive tape, and do not try to open the pack. Take the battery to a local recycling or disposal center. If a leak develops, avoid contact with the electrolytes, as they are corrosive and toxic.
For more guidance on carts and storage solutions, visit our Carts & Storage page.
