How to take care of my gardening tools?

Clean. Sharpen. Protect. Repeat.

There’s a certain quiet pleasure in keeping your tools in good working order. It’s a small act of care — for the things that care for your garden. And much like mulching your soil or pruning at just the right time, tool maintenance is one of those jobs that pays you back in spades.

A well-loved pair of secateurs, snips or shears doesn’t need to be replaced — it just needs a little TLC. With the right tools and just a few minutes, your gardening kit can stay sharp, rust-free and ready to tackle the next round of garden tasks.

Start with a clean slate

Dirt, sap and surface rust can build up quickly, even on the best-quality tools. The Niwaki Crean Mate is our go-to for gentle but effective cleaning — it’s a Japanese-made block designed to remove grime without damaging your tools. Add a few drops of water or Camellia Oil, and rub away the buildup on your blades and handles.

If you’re dealing with surface rust, reach for the Rust Eraser. This flexible, rubbery block works like a dream to lift oxidation from carbon steel blades, especially around hinges and hard-to-reach edges. It’s surprisingly satisfying to watch the clean metal come back to life.

Time to sharpen

A sharp blade is safer, easier to use, and better for your plants. The Sharpening Stone is made for high-quality secateurs, loppers, and shears — just soak it briefly in water and gently glide it along the edge of your blade, following the original bevel. A few swipes is often all it takes to restore a clean, crisp edge.

We recommend the #1000 grit for general sharpening — it’s the sweet spot for regular maintenance. Just take your time, and don’t rush. This is a moment to slow down and enjoy the process.

Finish with protection

Once your tools are clean and sharp, it’s time to protect them. A light coating ofCamellia Oil keeps rust at bay and helps moving parts glide beautifully. This traditional Japanese oil is plant-based, non-toxic, and safe for use on all steel and wooden surfaces. Wipe a little onto your blades and joints with a soft cloth — think of it as a moisturiser for your tools.

The ritual of care

Caring for your tools isn’t just about extending their life — though it absolutely does that. It’s also a way to slow down, connect with your gear, and appreciate the role it plays in your garden. A clean, sharp tool turns a chore into a joy. It cuts where you want it to, leaves tidy wounds on your plants, and feels like an extension of your hand.

So next time you come in from the garden, don’t just drop your secateurs on the bench. Give them a quick wipe down. Maybe a sharpen if they’re feeling a bit dull. Your future self (and your plants) will thank you.

Explore our tool sharpening range here Tool Maintenance.