Content Menu
>> Tools
>> Materials
● Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Hand Tools
>> 2. Degrease the Metal Surfaces
>> 4. Dry the Tools Thoroughly
>> Cleaning Extremely Dirty and Rusty Tools
>> Power Tools
● FAQ
>> 1. How often should I clean and lubricate my tools?
>> 2. Can I use vinegar to prevent rust?
>> 3. How to clean tools with plastic handles?
>> 4. How do I remove grease from hand tools?
>> 5. How to know when a tool needs to be replaced rather than repaired?
Maintaining your hand tools through regular cleaning is essential for their longevity, performance, and safety. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to effectively clean your hand tools, remove rust, and keep them in optimal condition.
Cleaning your hand tools is more than just aesthetics; it's an investment in their future[1][2]. Dirt, grease, and rust can degrade the tool's material, reduce its efficiency, and even make it unsafe to use[5]. Regular cleaning prevents these issues, ensuring your tools remain reliable and effective for years to come[2]. Cleaning your hand tool is not just maintenance; it is an investment for productivity and safety[1].
Before you begin, gather the necessary cleaning supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.
- Soap and Water
- Brushes (stiff bristle brush, soft bristle brush, old toothbrush)
- Steel Wool
- Protective Gloves
- Paper Towels or Cloths
- Vise (optional)
- WD-40 or similar lubricant
- Fine-grit Sandpaper
- Rust Remover (vinegar, baking soda, oxalic acid)
- Machine Oil or Rust Inhibitor
- All-purpose cleaner/Hand tool degreaser
Follow these steps to clean your hand tools effectively:
Start by wiping down the tools with a clean, dry cloth to remove any loose dirt and debris[3]. For caked-on dirt or grime, use a stiff-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the surface[1][3]. Ensure you get into all the tight spaces and crevices[3]. Make sure to wipe the surface dirt properly, as it might harden on the tool, further increasing the wear and tear of the tool[1].
A person using a brush to remove dirt from a hand tool
If the tools have grime or are oily, degrease the metal surfaces using a mixture of mild soap and warm water[1]. You can also use a commercial degreaser or all-purpose cleaner[1].
1. Soak the tool in the soapy mixture for a few minutes[1].
2. Scrub gently with a soft bristle brush or sponge to remove the grease from the tool[1].
3. Rinse the tool thoroughly with clean water[1].
A person cleaning a hand tool with soap and water
Rust can be a significant problem for hand tools, but it can be removed using several methods[1].
1. Secure the tool in a vise to prevent movement and potential injury.
2. Use sandpaper or steel wool to scrub the rusted surface[3]. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and finish with a finer grade[3].
3. For heavy rust, use a hand drill with a steel brush attachment.
4. Wipe the tool clean with a towel or tissue.
A person using steel wool to remove rust from a hand tool
1. Vinegar and Salt: Soak the tool in a container filled with vinegar and add two spoonfuls of salt. Leave it for a few hours or overnight. Once the rust starts coming off, scrub the tool with sandpaper or steel wool to remove the softened rust.
2. Baking Soda: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the rusted areas. Let it sit for a few hours, then scrub it away with a brush. Rinse with water and dry.
3. Oxalic Acid: Soak the tool in a solution of three tablespoons of oxalic acid to one gallon of water.
Safety Note: When using chemicals, wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
If the tool is heavily rusted, soak it in vinegar or a rust remover[1].
After cleaning, it is crucial to dry the tools thoroughly to prevent rust[1][6]. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe off all moisture[1][3]. Compressed air can be used to dry hard-to-reach spots[6].
A person drying a hand tool with a cloth
Lubrication is essential for tools with moving parts, such as pliers, wrenches, and scissors. Apply a light machine oil or a specialized lubricant like WD-40 to keep them operating smoothly. This reduces friction and wear, prolonging the life of the tools[2]. For older tools with a considerable amount of rust, you may want to add a small amount of household oil (i.e. WD-40)[4]. By applying some to a small rag and wiping your older tools down, you will help prevent them from rusting[4].
A person lubricating a hand tool with oil
While cleaning, inspect your tools for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bent components, or excessive wear[5]. Replacing worn or damaged tools ensures safety and efficiency[5]. Check your tools' handles for splinters, breaks, and cracks[5]. Also, make sure that metal parts show no signs of corrosion or rust[5]. Repair or replace any tools that show signs of damage[5].
Proper storage is critical to prevent rust and damage[2]. Store tools in a dry, moisture-free environment[8]. A tool box or storage container can help keep them organized and protected[8]. Anti-rust and corrosion liners are the best way to protect your tools if you use tool chests[8]. Add them to your drawers or tool chests for enhanced protection[8]. You can also store power tools safely in your garage with a pegboard[8].
If you clean your tools after every use with a cleaner, you should never have to worry about a bigger, more drastic cleaning process[4]. However, if you have older tools that you haven't touched in years, ones you inherited, or tools you found at garage sales or flea markets that you just couldn't pass up, you may need a more drastic wash[4].
To clean really dirty and rusty tools, here's what you'll need[4]:
- Wire scrub brush[4]
- Steel wool[4]
- Multi-Purpose Cleaner-Degreaser[4]
- Commercial Cleaner (Ajax, Pinesol)[4]
- Bucket[4]
- Hot water[4]
- Cloth rags[4]
Start by filling the bucket with hot water and a small amount of commercial cleaner[4]. Soak your tools in the bucket for 30 seconds to a minute[4]. With your wire brush, scrub the tools to remove dirt and grime[4]. Rinse and repeat until all dirt has been cleared from the tool[4]. Let dry atop a cloth rag[4]. For older tools with a considerable amount of rust, you will want to take the steel wool and scrub the rust off[4]. Allow time for everything to dry[4].
If you want to effectively clean power tools, you should ensure that they are disconnected from all power supplies[7]. If the power tool is used in woodwork and, in turn, collects sawdust, this should be cleared out using compressed air[7].
With a cleaning solution and rag you should wipe clean your power tools, ensuring not to get the solution anywhere near the power cables or motor[7]. A toothbrush or pick is a great way to clean around buttons and toggles[7].
Once you have finished cleaning with the solution, you should wipe down with a dry rag to remove all residue[7]. Check for any rust on the metal components and remove with steel wool[7].
- Clean as Soon as Possible: The longer dirt and grime stay on the tools, the harder they are to clean[5].
- Use the Right Cleaning Agents: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the tools. Mild soap and water are often sufficient[1].
- Regular Maintenance: Clean and lubricate your tools regularly, especially after each use[5].
- WD-40 Specialist Degreaser: Apply a coat of WD-40 Specialist Degreaser, wait for five minutes, and then wipe off the grease with a lint-free cloth[6].
- DIY Rust Removal Solution: Submerge metal parts in vinegar overnight, then scrub with steel wool[6]. Follow with a baking soda and water soak to remove discoloration[6].
A dry, clean, organized space is the best environment to keep your work tools[8]. This environment helps you find what you need when you need it, preserve your tools, and keep your work area looking professional[8].
Never store your tools in a hot or humid place, especially metal ones[8]. Damp environments can corrode metals, and moist areas can degrade electrical components[8]. Keeping your tools in damp and stuffy garages or basements is not ideal[8]. It can corrode metals, but other issues are also related to dampness[8]. Investing in a dehumidifier is recommended[8].
For power tools, inspect the power cords regularly for any signs of wear or fraying[8]. Replace damaged cords promptly to prevent electrical hazards[8].
Clean the tools with towels or wet tissues, scrub them clean to remove the uppermost layer of dirt and grease[3]. For grime-soaked tools, soak them in warm water mixed with soap and brush off the grime[3]. Let them dry and then wipe them with a towel[3]. Finally, lubricate them and store them properly[3].
Cleaning hand tools is a straightforward process that significantly extends their lifespan and maintains their performance[2]. By adopting these fundamental practices, you can significantly extend the life of your hand tools and ensure they remain reliable companions in your various projects[2]. Remember, a well-maintained tool is an essential asset for every DIY enthusiast and professional alike[2]. Regular cleaning, rust removal, and proper storage are key to keeping your tools functional and safe for years to come.
The frequency depends on the tool's usage. Clean tools after every use or every couple of months if not in use. Lubricate moving parts every few months.
Yes, vinegar can remove rust. However, using tool-specific rust prevention oil provides longer-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.
Use mild cleaning agents to avoid damaging the plastic. A soft cloth or sponge with mild soapy water should be sufficient. Avoid highly corrosive cleaning agents.
Soak the tools in hot water with dish soap for about 30 minutes, then scrub them down. Ensure they are thoroughly dried to prevent rust.
Inspect tools regularly for signs of significant wear, cracks, or damage to critical components. If a tool's essential parts are severely compromised or if repairs are no longer effective, it is time to replace the tool.
[1] https://jcblhandtools.com/blog/how-to-clean-hand-tools/
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/comprehensive-guide-hand-tool-maintenance-73xpc
[3] https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-clean-tools-effective-tool-cleaning-tips
[4] https://www.kleintools.com.au/blog/how-clean-your-tools
[5] https://www.truevalue.com/diy-projects/maintenance-and-repair/proper-tool-maintenance/
[6] https://wd40.ae/diy/how-to-clean-hand-and-power-tools-with-wd-40-specialist-degreaser/
[7] https://www.prima.co.uk/home-ideas/declutter-and-clean/a32219182/how-to-clean-diy-tools/
[8] https://lowellcorp.com/properly-maintaining-your-tools/
[9] https://motorheadtools.com/blogs/motorhead-tools/how-to-clean-hand-tools
[10] https://simplegreen.com/professional/cleaning-tips/garage-tools/tools-hand/
[11] https://www.elora.de/en/blog-news/hand-tool-care-and-maintenance-tips-for-long-lasting-quality/
[12] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnGHTC06N0M
[13] https://www.reddit.com/r/handtools/comments/1e4i2v3/cleaning_hand_tools/
[14] https://mprtools.com/blogs/news/a-quick-guide-to-properly-maintaining-your-hand-tools
[15] https://www.reddit.com/r/Tools/comments/1342fn3/cleaning_hand_tools/
[16] https://hvacrcareerconnectny.com/how-to-clean-disinfect-tools/
[17] https://hsi.com/blog/30-tips-for-hand-and-power-tool-safety
[18] https://dawn-dish.com/en-us/how-to/clean-using-dawn-as-a-hand-tool-cleaner/
[19] https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/cleaning-hand-tools.524601/
[20] https://www.ampcosafetytools.com/proper-use-maintenance/
