6 Top tips for storing garden tools during the off-season
Properly storing garden tools during autumn and winter is essential for prolonging their lifespan and ensuring they remain in optimal working condition. Whether you are a casual gardener or a dedicated horticulturalist, careful maintenance and storage of tools during the colder months can prevent unnecessary deterioration and expense.
This guide outlines practical steps for cleaning, maintaining and storing your garden tools in a safe manner. Learn more below and decide whether self-storage is the right option for your garden tools.
- Clean tools thoroughly before storage
Before placing any garden tools into storage, it is important to clean them thoroughly. Soil, plant sap and moisture left on blades and handles can lead to rust, corrosion and decay. Use a wire brush or steel wool to remove dried mud and debris, and clean stubborn residue with warm soapy water. After drying, wipe down metal parts with an oiled cloth to create a protective barrier.
Regular cleaning also helps to prevent the transfer of plant diseases, contributing to a healthier garden environment.
- Sharpen and oil metal components
Sharp tools are more efficient and safer to use. Once clean, sharpen the blades of secateurs, shears, loppers and spades using a sharpening stone or a metal file. This ensures better performance and reduces strain during use.
Apply a light coating of oil to all metal parts to protect them from rust during storage. Linseed oil, motor oil or WD-40 are all suitable for this purpose.
- Inspect and treat wooden handles
Wooden handles should be checked for cracks, splinters or signs of wear. Sand down any rough areas to avoid injury and apply a coat of boiled linseed oil to nourish and protect the wood. Replacing damaged handles now can save time and hassle when gardening resumes in the spring.
- Choose a suitable storage location
Garden tools should be stored in a dry, sheltered space such as designated self-storage unit. Avoid leaving tools exposed to rain, frost or high humidity, as these conditions can cause rapid deterioration. Garden sheds and garages can be vulnerable to extreme cold and damp conditions so these are not always the best place to store tools.
Where possible, hang tools off the ground using wall hooks or racks. This minimises contact with damp surfaces and reduces the risk of tripping or injury.
- Prepare power tools and batteries
Power tools such as lawn mowers, strimmers and hedge trimmers require special attention. Empty fuel tanks and clean external parts before storage. For battery-powered equipment, remove batteries and store them separately in a cool, dry place, ideally at around 50 per cent charge. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for any specific storage recommendations.
- Consider self-storage for seasonal equipment
Home storage space is often limited, particularly during the winter months. A secure self-storage unit provides a convenient solution for keeping garden tools, furniture and other seasonal items safe and organised.
Self-storage facilities offer clean, dry and protected environments ideal for long-term storage. This helps preserve the condition of your equipment and keeps your home or garden shed free from clutter.
Store your garden tools with confidence at MGR Removals & Storage
At MGR Removals & Storage, we offer reliable and flexible self-storage solutions designed to meet the needs of homeowners and gardening professionals alike. Our secure facilities are perfect for storing garden tools and equipment during the off-season.
Contact our team today on 0208 579 0293 to discuss your storage requirements and discover how we can help you protect your tools year-round.