Don’t Leave Your Tools Out in the Cold: Winter Care Tips

By: DRAMM

As winter approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your watering tools and gardening equipment the care they deserve. A little preparation now will ensure your tools are ready when spring arrives. Following these tips will keep your tools protected during the winter and ready for spring use.

Drain Your Watering Tools Thoroughly

Water left in hoses and watering accessories can freeze, causing cracks or other damage that may not be visible until the following season. Before temperatures drop, disconnect your hoses from outdoor spigots and drain all water.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have an air compressor, place hoses on an incline with both ends uncapped so water can naturally drain. For homes on flat land, hang hoses and slowly wind them over a couple of days to ensure the full-length drains. Quick-disconnect fittings can stay on the hose for easier reconnection. Kids’ swing sets or similar structures work perfectly for supporting hoses while they drain.

Disconnect and Care for Hose-End Accessories

Hose-end accessories such as sprayers, nozzles, and shut-off valves can crack if water freezes inside. Remove them before storing. Tools or accessories that have small hollow spaces, such as hose-end nozzles, can attract bugs or spiders over the winter, consider wrapping them or storing them securely.

Pro Tip: For items designed for easy disassembly, take them apart, clean thoroughly, and remove any debris. Lubricate moving parts like springs, valves, or triggers to keep them working smoothly next season.

Clean and Protect Cutting and Digging Tools

Shovels, pruners, shears, and other tools should be cleaned thoroughly before storing to prevent rust or oxidation. A simple oil wipe-down after cleaning is usually enough to protect metal surfaces.

Tip: Dramm’s Compact Shear is perfect for indoor use, making it handy for household tasks throughout the winter months.

Store Watering Tools and Accessories Indoors

Store hoses, nozzles, and other tools in a garage, shed, or basement. Avoid leaving anything outside where freezing temperatures can cause serious damage. Keep frequently used tools in an accessible spot so you don’t have to clear out half your storage space just to grab one item.

Tip: Tools like Dramm’s 2-Liter Watering Can are perfect for watering houseplants indoors during the winter months.

Keep Everything Dry

Even indoors, make sure tools are completely dry. Excess moisture can lead to rust, mildew, or other damage. Properly dry your tools now and enjoy hassle-free gardening next season!  

Quick Tip: Hang tools when possible or store them off the ground to prevent moisture buildup.

Care for Battery-Operated Devices

Remove all batteries from programmable shut-offs or other battery-operated devices and clean the compartments to prevent corrosion.

Start Dreaming of Spring!

Take notes on any improvements you’d like to make and visualize how your yard will look next season. When planning your garden layout, group plants with similar water and sunlight needs together, and position those that require more water within easy reach of your hose. By preparing your tools now, you’ll ensure everything is ready to go when spring arrives.

Pro Tip: Use this time to make a list of tools or accessories you might need next season so you’re fully prepared.

Winterizing your garden tools delivers lasting benefits and ensures they stay ready for use. At Dramm, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your tools, so watering and garden tasks remain easy and efficient. By caring for your tools this winter, you’ll ensure they’re ready to tackle your garden the moment spring arrives.

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