At first glance, the idea of putting a piece of bread in your toolbox may seem odd or even humorous. However, this simple action can solve a problem that many mechanics, DIY enthusiasts and professionals may not even be aware of – the problem of rust and corrosion on tools. Here’s how a slice of bread can become an unsung hero in tool care.
The science behind the solution
Tools, especially those made of steel or iron, are prone to rusting when exposed to moisture. Even in rooms where humidity is controlled, tools can still suffer from condensation or moisture in the air. This is where bread comes to the rescue:
- Moisture Absorption: Bread, being highly absorbent, can act as a dehumidifier. It absorbs excess moisture from the air, reducing the chances of rust forming on tools.
- Oxygen Reduction: When bread stale, it releases carbon dioxide, which can displace some of the oxygen in the confined space of the toolbox, reducing the amount of oxygen available for rusting processes.
How to use bread in your toolbox
- Choosing bread: Choose plain white bread, as it does not contain preservatives or additional flavorings that can react with the metal.
- Place a slice or two in a place where it won’t get in the way but can still absorb moisture from the air. A small open container or piece of mesh will work for this.
- Frequency Bread gets stale and loses its moisture-absorbing properties after just a few days. Replace it weekly or every time you notice that it has become quite dry and hard.
- Tool Care: This is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Regular cleaning and lubrication of tools is still necessary. Powdering serves as an additional preventative measure.
Benefits beyond rust prevention
- Cost-effective: Breading is inexpensive and readily available, making this solution accessible to all.
- Environmentally friendly : using bread does not release chemicals into the environment, unlike some commercial dehumidifiers.
- Emergency use: if you don’t have traditional rust prevention methods on hand, bread can serve as an impromptu solution.
Cautions and considerations
- Mold: If bread absorbs too much moisture, it can begin to mold. Always check it for mold before working with tools, as mold can be dangerous.
- Not a panacea: Bread can help prevent rust, but will not remove it. Tools that show signs of rust should be treated accordingly.
- Takes up a lot of space: Although bread does not take up much space, in very compact toolboxes, even a slice can become a nuisance.
Bread in your toolbox may not solve all of your tool maintenance problems, but it sure solves the often overlooked problem of preventing moisture and rust in an unconventional but effective way. It reinforces the fact that sometimes the simplest solutions can be the most effective, and shows that innovation can come from the most unexpected places – like your kitchen pantry. The next time you think about your toolbox, remember that a piece of bread could be the unsung hero you didn’t even know you had.
