A socket wrench is a tool that can be used to tighten bolts. Keeping them clean is important because the dirt and grime from sockets will eventually cause them to wear down, making it difficult for bolts to stay tightly fastened. In this article, we’ll show you how you can clean your sockets and wrenches by hand or with a pressure washer!

Different Ways Of Cleaning: How to Clean Sockets and Wrenches

There are different ways you can try to clean your sockets and wrenches. Here are different ways you can go about it:

Cleaning By Hand

This is the most basic way to clean sockets and wrenches. Cleaning by hand is where you can use soap, water, an old toothbrush, or a scrub brush to remove any debris that has accumulated on the tool’s surface after usage.

Cleaning Solution

You can also make your own cleaning solution with common household ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice mixed in warm water (add salt if you want too). If this method does not work for you try adding baking soda instead of salt.

You should be able to see results immediately when using these solutions, but always remember to rinse them off well before applying or storing them away. These solutions may corrode metal surfaces over time, especially because they are acidic.

Using A Dishwasher To Clean Them

This is another effective way to clean your sockets and wrenches. However, you should never place them in the dishwasher when they are still hot because this may cause damage to dishes or even melt plastic items like Tupperware inside of it.

You can let them cool off before cleaning so that they don’t warp under high temperatures. For best results, put a little bit of soap on each tool and run through an empty cycle if possible (you will want all your tools dry for storage, so make sure not too many dishes come out with water).

Cleaning With A Pressure Washer

You can use a pressure washer hose as long as there is no power behind it which might ruin some hardware surfaces such as chrome plating. If this is something you feel like trying, make sure you use the lowest setting and only spray from a safe distance so that debris does not fly off at high velocity.

Using A Surface Cleaner

This is another great way to clean your sockets and wrenches if they are made of tough metal surfaces such as chrome or stainless steel. Ensure it has an extension hose included because you will need this in order for it to work properly (it should be able to reach every nook and cranny).

When cleaning with one remember, do not let water touch any electrical components such as buttons located on the tool’s body because electricity can easily conduct through water, which might cause serious damage down the road! You want to avoid rusting by keeping them dry when storing away after using them too.

Taking Care Of Your Socket and Wrenches

It is important that you take care of your sockets and wrenches so they do not rust or corrode over time. To avoid this, be sure to always dry them off before storing them away as well as clean any debris completely from their surfaces (for those who use cleaning solution).

When applying lubricant, it’s best used sparingly because too much can actually attract more dirt, which will create a bigger problem for you in the future. If applicable, apply lube only where needed, such as around buttons or hinge joints rather than on screw threads or ratcheting mechanisms.

Never store tools with grease all over them either because it may contaminate wiring if placed near an electrical device like computers. Also, never store them in moist areas where they are exposed to the liquid because this will cause rusting or corrosion.

You should know that these tools have an expected shelf life depending on the materials used in their construction so replacing old sockets and wrenches with new ones is a good idea if you notice any signs of wear such as scratches, dents, or loose screws.

Worn-out parts can be dangerous when working and may snap under pressure, damaging your tool (and even worse, injuring yourself). When buying replacements, always use brand-name items like Craftsman for your socket sets because they come with warranties against defects from reputable companies who want repeat customers! If you follow all these rules above, then it’ll be cleaning easier too.

Even though you want to keep your socket and wrenches clean, be sure not to use any harsh chemicals or solvents as this may cause damage over time, which might cost you more in the long run. Also, avoid storing them near corrosive liquids such as acids because they can eat away at metal surfaces, leaving a mess behind!

If you want to also restore your old sockets and wrenches, watch this:

With all these tips above on how to properly take care of sockets and wrenches, it is easy so that you do not have to worry about rusting, corrosion, or tools wearing out too quickly (which means needing replacements more often).

You can also check our posts on removing water heater elements without an element wrench and installing bike pedals without a pedal wrench if you are struggling with these problems.