Spring Has Sprung…

Now Where Did I Put My Gardening Gloves?

Ah Spring! That time of year when all of the amateur gardeners, weekend warriors and otherwise outdoorsy fix it types venture outside to conquer the great outdoors.
 
“Roll out the lawn furniture Ethel; we’re going to have a barbecue!” Except…
 
Where, exactly did we put the lawn furniture, gloves, tools, charcoal starter, barbecue, lawn mower…?
 
That’s the trouble with all this outdoor activity stuff – unless you want to buy everything all over again, you need to have stored it properly and actually remember where you put it!
 
Whether you were organizational royalty last fall, or you just stashed and dashed, there are still some things you need to do to maintain those items you only use when the weather is nice.
 
Here are some helpful tips for your outdoor “stuff.”
 
Patio Furniture
 
Sun, rain, outdoor pools, and lotions can all cause havoc on your outdoor furnishings. The good news is that you have options. Finding replacement parts (glides, springs, etc) is usually an easy task at the local hardware store. Even the slings can be replaced with kits you can find online.
 
If properly stored, furniture pads can be dusted off (or if it’s made of the right material. rinsed off) and look as good as new. If your cushions are in good shape consider using a spray on protector made for outdoor furniture. Sometimes it’s just time for something new. Furniture pads, covers and pillows made for the outdoors are an affordable way to update your outdoor “look.”
 
The actual frames can be updated too. Tired looking frames can be sanded and painted. Use a coat of anti rust paint on wrought iron. Is the aluminum looking dull? Wash it and coat it with car wax.
 
Simple fixes can make such a difference!
 
Barbecue Maintenance
 
Your barbecue should be cleaned thoroughly twice a year. Start by combining part distilled white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle, and then coat the interior of the grill. Close the grill lid and allow it to stand for one hour. This solution will break up that burned on “gunk,” so that it is easier to remove with a grill brush. You can wipe it clean with a wet cloth.
 
Use a sponge and dish soap to clean the grate, or you can use a commercial spray on grate cleaner or oven cleaner. Just be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use oven cleaner on any surface other than the grate, because it can damage painted surfaces.If your barbecue has rust on the outside, use a fine steel wool pad to gently rub the rust spots away. After you’ve removed the rust, spray with paint made specifically for grills.
 
The best maintenance for the grill, however, is regular maintenance. Purchase a grill brush to scrape off bits of food and char after each use. (If you’re on a budget you can also do this with crumpled aluminum foil.) Before lighting the grill, spray on grilling oil or, using a sturdy paper towel, rub on cooking oil that is safe at high temperatures.
 
Gardening Tools
 

Lawn mowers should be sharpened and balanced each year. Loppers and clipping type tools should be kept sharp. Inspect these for sap or plant residue after each use. Clean with mild soap and water if needed. Garden tools can be lubricated with olive oil or mineral oil. Shovels too, work best if their  blade is sharp.
 
The best maintenance for all tools is to be sure they are clean and dry before being put away. Remember “a place for everything and everything in its place?” Yes, your mother probably said this when you were a child, but it’s also excellent advice for your tool shed.
 
“But I just want to get out there and do yard work! I don’t want to overhaul the entire garage just to find my stuff and get started!”
 
Good news! The Fix-It Professionals are here to help! Let us help you organize your garage or your tools shed. We’ll even haul away* all that stuff that you swear you had no idea where it all came from. Read on for our Garage and Shed Clean Up Special.
 
*hauling does not include dump fees