Keep your tools clean and dry
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your garden tools is to keep them clean and dry. Tools that are stored dirty or wet are likely to become rusty or corroded. Dirt and debris can also prevent blades from working properly. After each use, wipe down your tools with a damp cloth and let them air dry completely before storing them.
Oil hinges, springs and moving parts
Many garden tools have moving parts, such as hinges and springs. Applying a small amount of oil to these parts can help reduce friction and prevent rust. Be sure to wipe away any excess oil to keep your tools clean and free from dirt buildup.
Check and replace blades regularly
Just like any other component of your garden tools, even high-quality blades will eventually lose their sharpness. This causes unnecessary strain on your tools, potentially leading to accidents or injuries during use. Blunt blades can also damage plants, making it easier for diseases to take hold. Make sure to check blades as part of your regular maintenance routine. A little oil can keep them clean and free from rust.
Special care for wooden parts
Wooden handles and other parts are often used to make tools lighter and more attractive. Some tools have interchangeable wooden handles for different tasks. As a natural material, wood requires extra care to keep it waterproof and prevent splitting or rot. At the end of each growing season, it’s a good idea to sand back wooden parts before treating them with a weatherproof oil or stain to extend their life. Inspect wooden parts regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace as needed.
Check and replace broken or damaged parts
Even properly maintained high quality garden tools can become damaged or worn over time. Damaged tools can not only be dangerous to users but also less effective in the garden. Inspect your tools regularly, paying close attention to nicks, cracks or bent parts. Switch motors on and listen for rattles or other unusual sounds. If you discover any broken or damaged parts, get in touch with your dealer to purchase replacements.
Choose the right storage location
Thinking about how to store lawnmowers or other garden tools? A cool, dry and well-ventilated location is crucial. Store garden equipment in a garage, garden shed or utility room, making sure to clear any clutter to create a hazard-free space. Hanging tools on a pegboard or wall-mounted rack can help keep them organised and easily accessible. If you’re short on space, mowers can be suspended from the ceiling using a specially designed lift, or kept in an outdoor storage container. Always be sure to refer to your user manual for any special storage conditions, particularly for electrical items. Wherever you keep your tools, don’t forget a lock to prevent theft!
Protection from the elements
We always recommend using Honda’s range of made-to-measure covers to protect tools from sunlight, moisture, dust and debris. They are the only covers that have been approved by the engineers who originally designed your Honda, made with quality materials and custom-fitted to each product. See our ‘Protective covers’ page to find the right cover for your Honda equipment.
Winter storage
It’s particularly important to check oil levels, air filters, spark plugs, handles and blades before storing equipment for an extended period, such as over the winter. Clean and dry your tools thoroughly to prevent rust and corrosion, lubricating blades and moving parts. Ensure any fuel tanks are emptied, or that fuel has been treated with a stabilizer, and change your oil. Remove batteries and store them in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent depletion.
Proper maintenance is crucial to extending the lifespan of your garden equipment, keeping you and your garden safe and healthy, and saving money in the long run. By keeping your tools clean and dry, sharpening blades and edges, oiling moving parts, storing equipment properly, and replacing broken or damaged parts, you can help ensure that your tools are ready to use season after season. In need of parts for your Honda equipment? Contact your nearest dealer to keep everything running smoothly.
In need of parts for
your Honda equipment?
Contact your nearest dealer to keep everything running smoothly.
