How to Prevent Rust on Gardening Tools So They Last for Years

Properly maintaining your garden tools allows you to work smarter, not harder in the garden.

Whether you're dividing plants with a spade or carefully trimming branches with pruning shears, a set of gardening tools is essential for gardeners of all skill levels. But just as important as having the tools is ensuring they remain clean.

Rusty tools can create significant problems for both the gardener and their plants. Rust can make tools stiff and difficult to use, putting strain on your hands. Additionally, it can reduce the effectiveness and functionality of the tools, resulting in dull blades that cannot make clean cuts.

Rusted blades can damage plant stems and leaves, potentially spreading diseases. Fortunately, keeping your garden tools rust-free is easier than it may seem. Here, our garden experts share tips on how to prevent rust and corrosion from affecting your tools.

Meet the Expert

• Lacey Sinclair, owner of Solid Roots in Hancock, Maine, with over a decade of experience in garden design, estate garden maintenance, and plant cultivation.

• Evan Bowman, head gardener and nursery manager at Solid Roots in Hancock, Maine.

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Why Rust Forms on Gardening Tools

While your tools won't rust overnight, they will begin to show signs of neglect if not maintained regularly. "Rust and corrosion occur when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen over time," says Lacey Sinclair, owner of Solid Roots. "This often happens due to storing tools while wet, allowing dirt and plant material to build up, or keeping them in damp environments."

How to Prevent Rust on Gardening Tools

Prevention is the best solution for rusty garden tools. Properly cleaning, drying, and storing them after each use will ensure longevity and efficiency.

Keep Tools Clean and Dry

After every use, Sinclair recommends cleaning off the dirt and debris with a stiff brush or cloth and letting them dry completely before storing them. This will prevent any cross-contamination and help them last longer.

Season with Oil

After cleaning, dampen a cloth with true oil, like linseed oil, and apply a thin layer to the metal parts of your garden tools. (Linseed oil is also great for wood handles). “Even household cooking sprays, like avocado oil, can create a moisture-resistant barrier to help prevent rust,” says Sinclair.

Hang Long-Handled Tools

Hang long-handled tools on the wall to allow them to drip dry after cleaning. This not only helps provide proper air circulation but also prevents dull tool heads, something that happens when tools rest on the ground.

Inspect Your Tools Regularly

Sinclair recommends regularly inspecting your garden tools to spot and treat signs of rust early. The smaller the rust spot, the easier the cleanup.

Use the Sand and Oil Method

For larger tools, dunk them in a bucket filled with sand and a small amount of oil. "This removes moisture and adds a protective oil coating," says Evan Bowman, head gardener and nursery manager at Solid Roots.

To do so, fill a 5-gallon bucket with sand and add 1 to 2 cups of mineral oil. Mix well. Continuously plunge your garden tools in and out of the sand and oil mixture until clean. Next, brush off your tools to remove leftover sand.

Store Tools in a Dry Place

Leaving tools outside will result in rust and corrosion. Instead, store them in a shed, greenhouse, or garage to protect them from the elements and prevent moisture from accumulating.

Protect Outdoor Tools

For tools that must stay outside, like wheelbarrows, flip them upside down so they won’t collect water and rust out due to consistent moisture exposure, says Bowman. You can also cover them with a tarp to protect them from rain and snowfall.

Sharpen Your Tools

Sharpening your tools helps prevent rust by creating a clean edge that sheds moisture effectively. Smooth, clean edges reduce the chances of water sitting on the tool (or blade) and causing corrosion. After you sharpen your tools, wipe them clean and apply a thick layer of oil.

Use a Tool Organizer

Store smaller tools in an organizer, which prevents moisture from collecting and ensures you don't misplace any essentials.

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How to Remove Rust From Gardening Tools

Soaking garden tools in vinegar not only refreshes their appearance but can prevent and remove rust. Fill a small bucket with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar, and fully submerge your tools. Let them sit in the bucket for 30 minutes (or overnight if they're extra dirty). After soaking, use a scrubbing pad or brush to help remove rust or dirt. Lastly, rinse the tools with water, apply a thin layer of oil, and hang to dry.