A Quick Overview for Cleaning Your Drywall Tools

Avoid moving from one contractor job to another with dirty equipment. Work from the previous job can get in the way and mess with your installation process. Get a quick refresher with this overview for cleaning your drywall tools.

What You Need

Before starting the cleaning process, you need to gather all the necessary equipment to help with the task.

1. Muddy tools
2. Bucket of warm water
3. A putty knife
4. A scouring pad
5. Cleaning rags
6. A rust inhibitor

Step One: Scrape and Soak Your Tools

After using your tools to get the proper drywall mixer combination, that joint compound tends to stick. Use the putty knife to scrape off as much dried mud on your tools as possible. A taping knife works the same function if you don’t have a putty knife.

Next, submerge your tools in a clean bucket of water. Ensure the bucket is filled with at least five gallons to ensure a good soaking. Leave the tools in water for about 10 to 20 minutes. If you still see mud on your tools, soak for an additional 20 minutes.

Step Two: Scrub Your Drywall Tools

After the soaking has removed all hardened compound from your tools, remove them from the bucket and dump the dirty water. Refill the bucket with fresh water, and then get your scouring pad. Use the pad to scrub off all leftover traces of mud thoroughly.

Make sure the scouring pad is not a steel wool pad. The abrasive metal from the pad will create scratches and scuff marks on the surface of your tools. Use a stiff scrub brush instead. After giving your tools a good scrubbing, remove them from the water and use a clean rag to dry them.

Step Three: Apply Rust Inhibitor

Soaking and leftover water on your tools can cause rust. Spraying your tools with a rust inhibitor prevents rust from forming. The spray can give off strong fumes, so ensure you do this in a well-ventilated area. Make sure you reach metal fasteners on your tools.

Wipe off excess rust-inhibiting spray from other areas of your tools with a clean rag. A standard WD-40 works effectively and comes at an affordable price. Lastly, store your tools in a dry place.

At Timothy’s Toolbox, we have the right equipment for your drywall projects and the tips to help you maintain and clean your drywall tools. For more information, visit our website.