Put Winter Away the Right Way

Let’s face it: We’ve all had enough of winter. Instead of shoving shovels, snowblowers, and other tools to the back of the garage or storage shed as you search for the lawnmower and garden tools, take a deep breath and do it the right way.

A few hours now will save you many more hours next fall.

Big stuff first

Hose off snowblowers and plows to remove any accumulated ice melt, and let them dry in the sun. On metal plow blades and blower augers, scrape off rust and treat with an oil-based coating, like WD-40. Alternatively, you can prime and repaint from a spray can to offer protection.

Gas-powered snowblowers should be run dry before storage. Or, be sure to add a fuel stabilizer like STA-BIL—the leading cause of hard starting next fall will be old fuel that has lost its ginger. While you’re at it, change the crankcase oil now rather than wait for winter’s first storm.

If you own a new battery-electric snowblower, review the owner’s manual for proper battery storage (assuming the batteries won’t be used in other equipment over the summer).

Don’t forget small stuff

Take a critical look at the shovels, picks, pry-bars, and any other metal tool you used to battle winter’s icy fury. Are the edges straight, or curled over? Any rust? Are the handles and shafts solid?

Use a rasp or other metal-forming tool to give shovels a nice cutting edge, then treat with either paint or anti-rust compound. Plastic shovels and pushers have a limited lifetime, so it’s best to replace them—your hardware store will have sale prices now.

Tightly cap or seal up that container of snowmelt—it will gather moisture otherwise and become a hard-to-use block.

Don’t overlook your winter wear. It won’t hurt to wash (or send to the cleaners) that favorite parka with oil stains, just to have it ready late next fall. Wash and store gloves, scarves, and headwear with your parka so it’s all in one place.

Take a lesson from firefighters and store winter boots along with all the other winter wear. You might consider putting gloves, scarves, and hats into the boots, too.