You probably use a garden tool a few times a year, but when you do, you want it to be sharp, rust-free and ready to go. This means maintaining it properly both during the winter months and during peak planting season days or times.
Fortunately, there's an easy way to store your tools and keep them sharp and clean at the same time.
what do you need
This trick is a favorite on Jilly's home and garden blogs and Creekline House One Good Thing, especially because you only need three easily found items to pull it off. Here's what you can get from the store.
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First, you'll need enough sand to fill your container, but you'll also need to mix it with the mineral oil, so you'll also need a bucket or other container large enough to hold it. Add mineral oil a little at a time, remembering that if you want to cover all the sand, you want to keep its grainy, crumbly texture. You can always add more, but if you keep too much, you can't take away.
When well mixed, place the oil-soaked sand in a terracotta container with enough space at the top to allow you to change the sound when using certain instruments. The rest is easy. simply plant the blade and metal parts of your tool in the sand.
Why is this a good storage solution?
A light coat of oil will not only protect your metal tools from rust, but the sand will sharpen them a little each time you dip them in and out, just like sandpaper. Not only does this mean they won't get damaged in storage, but they'll look a little better every time you take them out.
What to remember?
To be safe, wash your tools before using them so you don't leave oil residue on the ground or on your work while gardening. The oil is not ideal for animals that may be in your yard, and it does no good to have it around or on your belongings.
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