How to clean stale spatulas and trowels from the solution

Many of those who are often involved in construction or interior decoration definitely know this life hack. But for those people who rarely undertake repairs, this method of cleaning spatulas and trowels after work will be simply useful.

This method perfectly cleans the surface not only of “freshly dried” solution, but also of concrete that has hardened over many months.

Will need

Citric acid, pack 50 g. - 3 pcs.
Hot water.

How to clean trowels, spatulas and other tools from gypsum and cement mortar

If you still have a dirty container from under the solution, where all the dirty tools will go, then this is very cool, since at the same time you will wash it too.

In general, pour hot water into a container and add 3 50 gram bags of citric acid.

We immerse the tools with the dried solution.

If they worked with a solution whose main component is gypsum, then the trowels and spatulas will get wet within 1-2 hours.

They can be taken out and cleaned.

If the dried solution consists mainly of cement, then cover the container and leave it to unlock for a day.

After the time has passed, we take out the tool.

It is clearly noticeable that the solution has begun to recede.

Next, take a stiff brush and a metal lip, and manually wash off the remaining solution from the surface.

As a result, the clean instrument is ready for use. Agree, it’s much more pleasant to work this way.

How to wash a long rule

When cleaning a long spatula or rule, you may have a problem in which it will not be possible to find an appropriate container for soaking. Here again there is a useful life hack.

Take 2 sachets of citric acid and dilute with 200 ml of water.

Apply this solution with a brush to the entire surface of the rule.

Next, wrap it with stretch film and leave it for a day.

After 24 hours, remove the film and clean the entire solution first with another spatula, then rinse with a sponge and water.

Finally, wipe dry with a dry cloth.

Acetic acid has a more effective effect, but it is simply impossible to work with it due to its pungent odor. Salt and washing powder are also effective, but less effective than citric acid.