Last Updated on February 7, 2023
Secateurs are essential tools for gardeners, but many people don’t know what type of oil to use on them. It’s easy to think that any old oil will do the job – after all, it’s just a tool. But you’d be surprised at how much difference the right kind of lubricant can make in keeping your secateurs sharp and efficient. In this blog post, we’ll talk about what oil to use on secateurs and why, as well as some tips for applying it correctly. So if you want to learn more about oiling up your secateurs properly, then read on.
Table of Contents:
The Best Oil for Secateurs
Secateurs are a vital tool for any keen gardener, and keeping them in good condition is essential. The best way to do this is by regularly applying oil to the blades. But which type of oil should you use?
The most common types of oil used on secateurs are mineral, vegetable or synthetic oils. Mineral oils are derived from petroleum and have been around for many years; they’re cheap but can be messy and smelly. Vegetable oils such as olive or sunflower oil offer a more natural alternative but can go rancid over time. Synthetic oils like WD-40 provide excellent lubrication but may not last as long as other options.
When it comes to choosing the best option, there’s no definitive answer – it really depends on your needs and preferences. However, if you want something that provides long-lasting protection without being too greasy or smelly then synthetic oil could be the right choice for you. It’s also important to make sure that whatever product you choose is suitable for metal surfaces so check the label before buying.
Once clean, apply a few drops of your chosen product directly onto each blade before using an old toothbrush (or similar) to spread it evenly across both sides of each blade – making sure all parts get covered properly. Finally, wipe away any excess with another cloth and put them back into storage until next time.
Using the right oil on secateurs is essential for ensuring they stay in good condition and last longer. However, there are some oils that should be avoided at all costs – let’s take a look at what not to use on secateurs.
What Not to Use on Secateurs
When it comes to maintaining your garden tools, using the right oil is essential. Secateurs are no exception and should never be lubricated with products such as WD-40 or other general purpose lubricants. These products can actually damage the blades of secateurs over time, making them less effective at cutting through tough branches and stems.
Why Not Use WD-40?
WD-40 is a petroleum based product that contains solvents which can break down metal parts over time. This makes it unsuitable for use on secateurs as they contain small moving parts which could become damaged by this type of product. Additionally, WD-40 leaves behind a sticky residue which attracts dirt and dust particles, further reducing the effectiveness of your secateurs in the long run.
What Can You Use Instead?
The best oil to use on secateurs is one specifically designed for garden tools such as Fiskars Garden Tool Oil or ProGold Multi Purpose Lubricant & Protectant Spray. Both these oils are designed to penetrate deep into small crevices while providing protection against corrosion and rusting caused by moisture in the air or soil conditions. They also leave behind an invisible protective film that helps keep your secateurs working smoothly without attracting dirt particles like some other types of oil do.
How to Apply Oil to Secateurs
Applying oil to secateurs is an important part of keeping them in good condition. Secateurs are a garden tool used for pruning and trimming, so it’s essential that they remain sharp and well-oiled. Here’s how to do it:
What You Need
To apply oil to your secateurs, you will need some light machine oil or 3-in-1 lubricant, a cloth, and a small brush (such as an old toothbrush).
How Much Oil To Use
When applying the oil, use only enough to lightly coat the surface. Too much can attract dirt which can damage the blades over time.
Where To Apply The Oil
Apply the oil on all moving parts of your secateurs, including any joints or hinges. Make sure you get into all nooks and crannies where dirt may accumulate, such as around screws or pins. Also, make sure you apply some on both sides of each blade if applicable – this will help keep them sharp longer.
Using A Cloth And Brush
Use the cloth to wipe away any excess dirt from the surfaces before applying the oil with either your finger tips or using a small brush like an old toothbrush. This will ensure that no debris gets trapped in between moving parts when applying the lubricant, which could cause damage over time.
How Often Should You Do It?
It is recommended that you apply oil to your secateurs every few months, depending on how often they are used. More frequent applications may be necessary if they are being used regularly throughout the gardening season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to choose the right oil for your secateurs in order to keep them functioning properly. The best oil for secateurs is a light machine or mineral oil, as these are designed specifically for metal tools and will not damage the blades. It’s also important to avoid using any type of vegetable or cooking oils on your secateurs as this can cause corrosion over time. Finally, make sure you apply the oil correctly by wiping away any excess and ensuring that all parts of the tool are lubricated before use. With proper care and maintenance, your secateurs should last you many years – so don’t forget to give them an occasional drop of oil.
Paul is the type of person who never met a problem he couldn’t fix. He can always be found tinkering with something in his house, even if it isn’t broken! His tips and tricks are often shared on our site. He’s the one you call when something breaks because he has been known to improvise fixes for everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning dryers.