When you first buy a pair of pruning shears, they feel sharp, smooth, and effortless to use. But after a few weeks in the garden, you start to notice the difference — the blades stick, the cuts are no longer clean, and a bit of rust might even appear. It’s frustrating, especially when you rely on precision and ease to get your work done efficiently. That’s where proper blade care becomes essential.

Regular cleaning, sharpening, and oiling can double the life of your pruning shears while maintaining their cutting performance.

A well-maintained tool is more than just a piece of metal — it’s part of how we express care for our garden. Over the years, I’ve learned that small habits, done consistently, make a huge difference. Whether you’re a home gardener¹ or a professional landscaper, understanding how to maintain your pruning shears properly can save you money and time.

How do you maintain a pruning shear?

The maintenance of a pruning shear is not complicated, but it requires discipline. After every use, I make it a habit to clean the blades, remove sap, and store them properly. It’s a simple routine that keeps the tool performing like new.

To maintain your pruning shears, clean them after each use, dry them completely, disinfect the blades, and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust.

Dive Deeper: Why cleaning after every use matters

I used to think cleaning shears after every use was unnecessary until I started noticing sticky residue on the blades. Sap, moisture, and dirt can accumulate quickly, leading to rust and stiffness. Once that happens, even the best-quality shears start to feel rough and lose efficiency.

The best way to clean pruning shears is by wiping them with a damp cloth or rinsing them in warm water if there’s heavy buildup. A small brush helps to remove sap from tight spots. For disinfection, rubbing alcohol works well — it removes bacteria that can spread plant diseases from one cut to another. After cleaning, drying is crucial. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to corrosion overnight.

Once the shears are clean and dry, I like to rub a bit of machine oil or WD-40 onto the blades. This keeps the metal protected and gives that smooth opening and closing feel that tells you the tool is ready for the next day.

How to keep pruning shears sharp?

No matter how careful you are, pruning shear blades will dull over time. Dull blades don’t just make cutting harder — they damage plant stems, leading to slower healing and higher risk of infection. I once tried trimming a rose bush with dull blades, and the results were messy. That day, I promised myself never to skip sharpening again.

To keep pruning shears sharp, use a fine diamond file or sharpening stone to follow the blade’s natural angle, then test the edge with a clean paper cut.

Dive Deeper: Simple sharpening techniques that work

Sharpening sounds technical, but it’s easy once you understand the process. First, separate the blades if possible — most quality pruning shear²s allow this. Use a small sharpening stone or diamond file and move it along the beveled edge in one direction, from base to tip. Avoid sawing back and forth, as that can create uneven edges.

I usually sharpen mine at about a 20–25° angle. This gives a balance between sharpness and durability. After sharpening, lightly sand the back of the blade to remove any burrs that might have formed. Then wipe off any metal dust and oil the joint to restore smooth movement.

A good test is to cut a piece of paper. If it slices cleanly without tearing, your blade is sharp enough. I recommend sharpening every few weeks during heavy use, or at least once a season for occasional gardeners.

What is the best oil for garden tool blades?

Oiling is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important steps in blade care³. The right oil prevents rust, reduces friction, and keeps your shears moving smoothly. Over time, I’ve tested different oils, and not all are equal in performance.

The best oils for pruning shears are light, non-sticky options such as camellia oil, mineral oil, or WD-40, which protect the metal without attracting dirt.

Dive Deeper: Choosing the right oil and applying it properly

There are two main goals when oiling pruning shears — protection and performance. Heavy oils like motor oil can create buildup and attract dust, which defeats the purpose. Instead, I prefer lighter oils that create a thin barrier without feeling greasy.

Camellia oil, which has been used in Japanese gardening tools for centuries, is one of my personal favorites. It’s plant-based, safe for both tools and skin, and forms a natural protective coating that resists rust. Mineral oil is another excellent option — it’s inexpensive, odorless, and works well for general maintenance. WD-40, though technically a water-displacing spray, is handy for quick protection after cleaning.

To apply, I use a soft cloth or cotton pad, wiping a small amount across the entire blade surface, including the joint. Then I open and close the shears several times to distribute the oil evenly. Doing this regularly ensures the tool stays ready whenever I need it.

Conclusion

Caring for your pruning shears doesn’t take much time, but it changes everything about how you work. Clean after each use, keep them sharp, and oil them properly — these three simple habits extend the life of your tools and improve every cut you make.

As someone who’s worked with tools every day for over a decade, I’ve learned that maintenance is not a chore; it’s respect for the craft. Whether you trim a few plants on your balcony or manage large gardens, a well-cared-for pruning shear reflects the care you bring to your work.

FAQs About Pruning Shears

1. What is the best way to clean pruning shears?

After each use, wipe the blades with a damp cloth to remove sap and dirt. For stubborn residue, use warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol. Dry thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

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2. How often should I sharpen my pruning shears?

If you use your shears regularly, sharpen them every few weeks. For casual gardeners, once every season is enough. Dull blades tear stems instead of cutting cleanly, which harms your plants.

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3. What kind of oil should I use on pruning shear blades?

Use light, non-sticky oils like camellia oil, mineral oil, or WD-40. They create a thin protective layer that prevents rust without attracting dust or dirt.

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4. Why do pruning shears get sticky?

Plant sap and moisture build up between the blades, especially after trimming soft branches. This can cause friction and rust. Cleaning your shears after each use solves the problem.

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5. How can I prevent my pruning shears from rusting?

Always clean and dry the blades after each session. Store them in a dry place and apply a thin coat of oil before putting them away. Avoid leaving them outside or exposed to humidity.

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