As you open the windows and start spring-cleaning your home, add this potentially overlooked item to your to-do list: Clean your lawn tools.
Your lawn mower, weed whacker and hedge trimmer have been cooped up and unused for months. And you’ll need to do more than knock the dust off of them.
Electric lawn mowers and power tools need regular cleaning and maintenance so they operate properly. Good news: They’re easier to take care of than gas-powered tools.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific models, but the following tips can be applied to any device.
Remove any batteries before you get started, and slip on a sturdy pair of gloves to protect your hands.
Use a dry cloth to wipe down the device and remove cobwebs, dust, loose dirt and dead bugs.
With a plastic scraper or a bristle brush, scrub off dried mud and grass all over the device, even underneath.
Damp-clean the machine all over with a wet cloth, but steer clear of the motor. Take extra care around any blades.
Keep blades sharp using a file or sharpening tool. A sharp lawn mower blade reduces strain on the motor and makes a clean cut on the grass, reducing brown grass tips.
Look for cracks on the casing and determine if the tool is still usable. Check that the handle is tight and sturdy. Inspect the blade for rust.
Fully charge the tool, replacing the battery if it has gotten damaged over the winter. It’s best to store batteries in a cool, dry place between 41 and 77 degrees and out of direct sun. For longer battery life, charge the battery before it fully dies.
For any repairs out of your scope of ability, hire a professional.
