Check out these cleaning guidelines to help your tools last longer and work better.
• To ensure safe, sound operation, especially of power tools, read and keep your owner’s manuals. Refer to them often and follow their instructions!
• To keep dirt from becoming caked on, clean tools after each use. Remove grass, leaves, and dirt with a brush of appropriate size and stiffness, and wipe with a dry or damp cloth.
• To keep tools from rusting, don’t leave them outdoors. Put them away after each use and store them under cover. Organize a special place to hang them so they’re easy to find and easy to put away.
• To stay on the cutting edge, sharpen cutting tools regularly. Sharp tools not only work better but are also safer. Dull tools are more likely to miss the mark, break, or kick back, not to mention frustrate the user. Most hand tools can be sharpened with a file, which you can buy at a hardware store.
• For power tools such as chain saws and hedge trimmers, consult your owner’s manual for sharpening instructions or take them to service centers that do the job.
• Pay attention to handles, especially of power tools. Make sure they are dry and free of oils and grease. A slip of your grip could result in a serious accident.
• Inspect screws and nuts periodically to be sure they’re tight.
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Extend the life of your tools by taking care of them.
