Clean garden shears regularly to extend their life and keep cuts clean and precise. This guide walks American gardeners through a practical, step-by-step process using readily available tools and products.
Quick Answer
Remove sap and dirt with warm soapy water, dry thoroughly, disinfect the blades, sharpen if needed, oil the pivot and blades, and store safely. Repeat after heavy use or exposure to sap and moisture.
What You’ll Need
- garden pruner cleaning brush
- pruning shear disinfectant spray
- blade rust remover for pruning shears
- pruner blade sharpening and oil kit
- gardening tool maintenance kit pruning shears
Before You Start
Prepare a clean workspace and wipe down surfaces that might be damaged by cleaners. Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp blades and chemical splashes. Time estimate: 10–20 minutes per pair, depending on rust or buildup. If the blades are pitted or severely damaged, consider professional servicing before use to prevent injury.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Garden Shears
- Extend the blades if possible and remove any disposable guards.
- Rinse off loose dirt with warm water; avoid soaking metal parts for long periods.
- Apply a light degreasing soap and scrub with the garden pruner cleaning brush to remove sap, resin, and sticky residue.
- Rinse again and dry thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent rust formation.
- Spray pruning shear disinfectant across the blades and pivot area; wipe away excess.
- If rust is visible, apply blade rust remover for pruning shears following the product’s instructions; rinse and dry.
- Carefully inspect for nicks or dull edges; use the pruner blade sharpening and oil kit to sharpen and then oil the blades.
- Lubricate the pivot with the included oil, move the blades back and forth to distribute evenly, and wipe away any excess.
- Reassemble guards if removed; test cut on a scrap branch to ensure smooth operation.
- Store in a dry area, away from moisture and pests, with blades closed or guarded to prevent accidents.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stiff or sticking blades | Dull edge or dried sap | Sharpen; apply oil after cleaning | Clean after each use; wipe dry |
| Rust spots | Moisture exposure, metal oxidation | Use blade rust remover, dry thoroughly | Store in a dry place; wipe immediately after rain |
| Discoloration or rust around pivot | Water intrusion, lack of lubrication | Lubricate pivot; wipe clean | Regular maintenance schedule |
| Sticky residues despite cleaning | Sap buildup | Reapply degreasing soap and scrub with brush | Clean promptly after pruning resinous plants |
Common Mistakes
- Using harsh solvents that corrode metal over time
- Omitting thorough drying after washing, which invites rust
- Skipping lubrication after cleaning, causing stiffness
- Sharpening dull blades without checking safety or alignment
Tips For Best Results
- Store blades in a dry, ventilated area to minimize rust risk.
- Clean immediately after pruning resin-heavy plants to prevent sap from curing.
- Use a sharpening kit designed for pruning shears to maintain correct bevel and edge angle.
- Wipe blades with a light coat of oil before long-term storage.
Call A Professional
Consider professional servicing if blades are severely rusted, bent, or chipped, or if the tool fails to operate smoothly after maintenance. Stop using the shears if there is any visible structural damage, cracks around the pivot, or a loose handle that affects control.
FAQ
How often should garden shears be cleaned?
Clean after heavy use or pruning resinous plants, and perform a light maintenance routine monthly during peak garden season.
Can I use household cleaners on pruning shears?
Opt for mild soap and water or purpose-made disinfectants; avoid harsh solvents that can degrade metal or handles.
What should I do if rust returns after cleaning?
Reapply rust remover, ensure thorough drying, and store in a dry place with regular lubrication.
Is sharpening necessary for all pruning shears?
Yes, to maintain clean cuts and reduce plant damage, periodically sharpen blades according to the kit instructions.
Buying Guide
When choosing garden shears and related maintenance tools, consider size, weight, and balance for comfortable use during extended tasks. Noise level is usually low for hand tools, but a well-made pair minimizes effort and fatigue. Look for rust-resistant blades and corrosion-protective coatings for longer life. Energy efficiency isn’t a factor for manual tools, but a reliable, simple design reduces maintenance. Controls should be intuitive, with a secure locking mechanism. Place shears in a dry, accessible spot near other pruning tools to streamline tasks. Compare sets that include a cleaning brush, rust remover, disinfectant spray, sharpening kit, and oil to cover all maintenance needs in one package.