Most of us have at least a few basic tools lying around our homes, in case we ever have some simple DIY tasks that need to be done. Of course, some people may be more advanced in their repair skills and thus have more tools.
No matter which category you fall in, it’s important to take good care of your tools, since tools are expensive. If you don’t properly care for your tools, they may get damaged and not last very long. If you’re looking for some advice on how to take proper care of your tools, you’ve come to the right place, so keep reading.
Sharpen them
Some tools may need sharpening in order to work effectively. Certain tools like knives, scissors, or screwdrivers may be difficult to use after some time, since they may lose their edge.
Luckily, this doesn’t mean that you need to get rid of your tools; you simply need to sharpen them. Regularly sharpening your tools will keep them in good condition and make it easy for you to use them. Investing in a good whetstone will make it easy for you to keep your tools sharp.
Store them correctly
Properly storing your tools is also vital if you want to keep them in good condition. Most of us don’t use tools daily, which means your tools may be lying around for months in between uses. And if they aren’t safely stored, they could easily get damaged or rusty during this time.
You don’t need to do anything fancy when it comes to storing your tools. Just make sure that they are kept in a dry spot, ideally within a protective container like a toolbox.
Use them correctly
You also need to make sure that you are using your tools correctly since improper use could lead to your tools getting damaged or even broken. For example, if you are constantly using your screwdriver to pry things open, it’s just a matter of time before it gets broken.
Not only is using tools correctly important when it comes to taking care of your tools, but it’s also important for your own safety. Tools can be dangerous, so you need to know how to safely and correctly use them. If you need help learning how to use a more complicated tool like a drill, click here.
Keep them clean
Finally, if you want to keep your tools looking and working well, you need to make sure to keep them as clean as possible. This can be tough to do since tools tend to get dirty quite quickly, but spending some time cleaning your tools after each use will help prevent them from getting stuck or rusty.
You don’t need to do an intense cleaning every time you use your tools – a simple wipe-down or wash should get most of the dirt off. That being said, it’s a good idea to give all of your tools a thorough cleaning whenever you are deep cleaning your house.