Care for Your Tools, and They’ll Care for Your Garden

Sneeboer’s guide to winter tool maintenance

There’s something rather grounding about caring for your garden tools. Maybe it’s the scent of linseed oil warming into the grain of a wooden handle, or the satisfying smoothness of a freshly sharpened blade. Whatever it is, these small acts of maintenance — often done in the off-season — connect us to the quieter side of gardening.

At Gubba, we believe that quality tools are an investment, and like any good investment, they deserve to be looked after. Sneeboer tools, crafted in the Netherlands using traditional techniques, are built to last generations — but only if you show them a little love.

Now is the perfect time. As the garden slows and the first frost arrives, it’s an ideal window to clean, sharpen and oil your tools so they’re rested and ready for the busy spring ahead.

Why Maintain Your Garden Tools?

Your tools are right there with you through every planting, weeding, digging, and pruning session. They tackle wet soil, stubborn roots, and the odd forgotten stone. Without care, metal rusts, wooden handles dry out, and blunt edges make even the simplest task hard work.

Worn tools don’t just slow you down — they can damage plants and strain your hands. A few mindful minutes in autumn or winter helps preserve their strength, sharpness, and function for years to come.

The Four-Step Ritual for Caring for Your Tools

1. Clean

Start by removing soil, sap and debris. A Sneeboer hand brush works wonders here — it’s firm enough to scrub off dried-on dirt without harming the tool. For any tough rust spots, a wire brush or even a fine rust eraser can gently bring the metal back to life.

Be sure to dry your tools thoroughly — moisture is the enemy of steel.

2. Sharpen

Once clean, sharpening makes a huge difference. A sharp blade cuts cleanly and efficiently, saving you time and effort come spring. Use a Sneeboer sharpening stone or fine file and follow the natural bevel of the blade. For shovels, hoes, and hand tools, sharpening just once or twice a year is often enough.

Tip: don’t rush. Take your time. Sharpening is as much about feel as it is about technique.

3. Oil

This is the satisfying part. A good wipe-down with boiled linseed oil — included in the Sneeboer Maintenance Kit — protects both steel and timber. It prevents rust, feeds the wooden handles, and brings out the natural grain. Apply with a soft cloth and allow it to soak in. If it’s been a while, your tools may need two coats.

Oiling handles keeps them supple and less prone to cracking, especially in changing humidity.

4. Store Smart

Hang tools off the ground in a dry, well-ventilated space. Damp sheds or concrete floors can encourage rust. Use wall hooks or racks to give each tool a home. If you’ve sharpened blades, consider wrapping them or adding protective covers for safety.

Out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind — good storage is the final act of care.

The Sneeboer Maintenance Kit: All You Need, in One Place

To make this ritual simple, Sneeboer has designed a complete Tool Maintenance Kit — beautifully practical and thoughtfully made. It includes:

• A wire brush for removing soil and rust

• A sharpening stone for clean, crisp edges

• A bottle of boiled linseed oil to condition and protect

• A soft cloth to apply oil and polish metal surfaces

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out with your first quality tools, this kit makes it easy to start strong — and stay sharp.