Don’t Forget To Winterize Your Lawn Tools—Here’s How
Taking care of your lawn tools before winter hits can save you time, money, and stress when spring rolls around. Cold weather, moisture, and rust can all damage tools that are left sitting in a shed or garage all season. With just a little effort now, you can help everything last longer and work better when you need it next. Here's how to prepare your lawn tools for the off-season.
Sharpen Blades and Edges
Blades on shears, pruners, and lawn mower decks dull over time. Dull blades then make your work harder and stress out your equipment. Winter is a good time to sharpen these tools so they're ready to go in spring. A metal file works for most edges, and you don’t need to make them razor sharp. Just clean up the nicks and reshape the edge. Wipe the blade with an oily rag after sharpening to prevent rust.
Drain Fuel From Gas-Powered Tools
Gas left sitting for months breaks down and gums up the engine. If you have a lawn mower, string trimmer, or leaf blower that runs on gas, either run the engine dry or use a siphon to empty the tank. After draining, run the tool briefly to clear the fuel lines. This helps prevent hard starts, clogs, or engine damage next season. If you're storing fuel, use a stabilizer and label the container.
Clean Off Dirt, Sap, and Grass
Before anything gets stored, it needs to be cleaned. Dried grass, mud, and sap hold moisture, which leads to rust. Use a wire brush or a putty knife to scrape off debris. For sticky spots, warm soapy water and a stiff brush usually do the trick. Make sure to rinse and dry everything fully. Starting with clean tools sets the stage for everything else to work as it should.
Change the Oil and Air Filter
Engines need clean oil and filters to run well, as old oil becomes acidic and can damage internal parts over time. Drain the oil from your lawn mower or any other 4-stroke engine and replace it with fresh oil. Check the air filter too, and if it's dirty, replace it. This small bit of maintenance extends the life of your equipment and makes sure it’s in working condition when the grass starts growing again.
Protect Metal Surfaces From Rust
Moisture is one of the biggest threats during the winter months. Once your tools are clean and dry, coat the metal parts with a light layer of oil to keep rust away. You can use WD-40 or even basic motor oil with a rag. Don't forget to wipe down the springs, screws, and hinges on hand tools too. For larger equipment like mowers, spray exposed bolts and decks where rust usually forms.
Store Everything Properly
Where and how you store your tools matters. Keep everything in a dry space like a shed or garage, away from direct contact with the ground. Hang hand tools to keep air circulating around them. Cover large items with a breathable tarp to shield them from dust and moisture. Batteries should be removed from electric tools and stored indoors if possible. Proper storage prevents damage and keeps everything organized for spring.
Winterizing your tools may feel like one more thing on your list, but it doesn't take long, and it really pays off. By taking care of your lawn equipment now, you’ll avoid the frustration of broken, rusted, or useless tools when the season changes. It’s a simple way to protect your investment and keep your outdoor work on track. A bit of attention now makes spring cleanup a whole lot easier.