Rusty garden shears are a major annoyance for any avid pruner. In fact, 87% of gardeners have one tool or more in their tool shed that has a substantial amount of rust. It’s not a good look.
I take pride in my tool collection, and you should, too! It should be a regular task to remove rust from garden shears, and other hand tools. That is when life doesn’t get in the way!
I’m going to share my top six effective methods for removing rust from garden shears so you’ll have some glinted metal for that next big pruning task.
We’ll cover everything from vinegar baths to some old-fashioned elbow grease.
Table of Contents
Method 1: The Vinegar Soak
Vinegar is a handy solution for tackling rust on tools. It’s affordable, effective, and likely already in your kitchen. To remove rust from garden shears, load up a jar of white vinegar and soak them.
An overnight soak of up to 24 hours is recommended for heavily rusted shears. After soaking, scrub them with steel wool or a wire brush. If any rust remains, repeat the process until the tools are clean.
To prevent rust from returning, always keep your tools dry.
Method 2: Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is an excellent option for removing light rust from garden shears. Here’s a simple DIY method: mix baking soda and water into a thick paste that will stick to your tool.
Apply the paste generously to the rusty tool surface, covering all the rusty spots. Let it sit for about an hour. Then, use a wire brush or steel wool to scrub the rust away.
Rinse the tools to check your progress. If any rust remains, repeat the process. Be sure to dry your tools thoroughly afterwards to prevent rust from returning.
Method 3: Lemon and Salt
Here’s a quirky yet effective method for removing rust from garden shears: the lemon and salt method. Start by generously sprinkling salt over the rusty areas as if you’re seasoning your tool.
Next, squeeze lemon juice, ideally fresh, over the salt-covered rust. Let this citrusy mixture sit for a few hours to work its magic.
Then, use the leftover lemon rind as a scrubber. For more stubborn rust spots, use steel wool or a wire brush.
Once the rust is removed, rinse and dry your tools thoroughly.
This method gives you clean tools and leaves them with a refreshing scent. Exactly what you need when cutting your hedge.
Method 4: Elbow Grease
Scrubbing rust off your garden shears is like giving them a new lease on life, and there are methods to suit the level of rust. For tools with a light dusting of rust, use high-grit sandpaper to gently buff away the corrosion.
After smoothing things out, a spritz of WD-40 can remove any lingering rust and add a protective layer.
For heavily rusted shears, a wire brush is your go-to solution. It requires a bit more effort but effectively removes the stubborn rust. Whether you choose sandpaper or a wire brush, don’t forget the final step: applying a rust inhibitor.
This acts like sunscreen for your shears, preventing future rust buildup and extending their lifespan.
Method 5: Potato and Dish Soap
Believe it or not, a potato’s oxalic acid can rust-bust your garden shears. Who knew your favourite french fry ingredient was also a cleaning powerhouse?
Here’s how to do it:
- Slice a potato in half (save the other half for later).
- Lather it with some soap.
- Sprinkle it with salt or baking soda.
Use this potato scrubber to clean the metal surfaces of your rusty tools. The oxalic acid dissolves the rust, while the salt or baking soda acts as a mild abrasive. When you’re done, rinse the tools well and dry them thoroughly.
It’s a quirky, cost-effective method that might make you see your potatoes in a new light!
Rust and Its Impact on Tools
Garden shears, often made from ferrous metals like carbon steel, are prone to rust due to outdoor exposure. Moisture, oxygen, and acidic substances can quickly lead to rust development on these tools.
Tools with metal surfaces, such as spades, garden shears, trowels, hoes, and even lawnmowers, can develop rust if not properly cleaned, dried, and stored. Over time, the level of corrosion will significantly affect the tool’s appearance and function.
Addressing rust early is important for effectively cleaning it. If left unchecked, rust will continue to build up, turning a simple cleaning task into a time-consuming process that requires hours of vigorous scrubbing to restore the tools.
Taking early action to clean rust prevents it from becoming a major issue, saving you time and effort.
Maintenance Tips To Prevent Rust
Caring for garden shears is important for their durability and performance. Follow the below recommendations to preserve your equipment:
- Clean and dry the shears thoroughly after use, especially before winter storage.
- Remove stubborn dirt to prevent spring damage.
- . Follow the methods above to clean rust effectively.
- Sand wooden handles to remove splinters and smooth rough surfaces.
- Sharpen the blades using a choice of sharpening product to prepare for spring.
- Apply oil to wood and metal parts to prevent rusting and cracking.
- Store tools in a dry, well-ventilated area to avoid moisture damage.
Following these practices will help remove rust from garden shears, maintain their functionality and extend their useful life, ensuring they’re ready for the next gardening season.
When to Replace vs. Restore Rusty Garden Shears
When faced with a malfunctioning tool, like a rusty pair of garden shears, you must consider the costs and benefits of repairing versus replacing.
This decision involves factors such as the tool’s age, condition, and impact on work efficiency. For instance, while replacing a rusty pair of shears might be more economical, scrubbing the blades clean could be the wiser choice.
Maintenance is key to extending the life of your rusty tools and postponing the need for major repairs or replacements. It includes cleaning and drying after each use, prompt rust removal, regular sharpening, and proper care of handles and springs.
Oiling tools with natural products and storing them in a dry place like a shed are also sensible choices to keep metal surfaces rust-free. Cleaning rust off tools promptly is especially important to prevent long-term damage.
This proactive approach saves money in the long run. It ensures that your shears remain in optimal condition for longer periods.
FAQ's
To remove rust from garden shears quickly, try the vinegar soak method. Submerge your rusty garden shears overnight in a white vinegar bath, then scrub off the loosened rust with a wire brush or steel wool.
For stubborn rust, you may need to repeat the process or try another method for faster results.
Yes, WD-40 can help remove rust from garden shears. Spray it generously on the rusty areas, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub with a wire brush or steel wool. Wipe clean with a rag and repeat if necessary.
To prevent rust, clean your garden shears after each use. Wipe off dirt and moisture, and store them in a dry place. For extra protection, lightly coat metal parts with mineral or boiled linseed oil every few months. This routine maintenance will significantly reduce the chances of rust formation.
The best way to store garden tools to prevent rust is to keep them in a dry, well-ventilated area. Hang tools when possible to prevent moisture accumulation.
Consider using a dehumidifier in your storage area if you live in a humid climate. Also, regularly inspect and clean your tools and apply a protective oil coating for added rust prevention.
5 Simple Methods To Remove Rust From Garden Shears
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