How to Get the Most from Your 450g Trollull Boxed Reel G3: Care, Storage, and Usage Tips

The 450g Trollull Boxed Reel G3 is a tried-and-true tool in workshops, restoration sites, and maintenance teams across the UK. But to ensure it performs at its best—and lasts as long as possible—it’s worth understanding how to use, store, and maintain it properly.

In this guide, we share straightforward, professional tips to help you get the most from your Trollull steel wool, whether you’re removing rust, preparing timber, or restoring stone.

1. Store It Dry to Prevent Rust

Steel wool, like any uncoated steel, is vulnerable to moisture. If it’s left exposed to damp conditions—even ambient humidity—it can begin to rust, reducing its effectiveness and contaminating the surfaces you’re working on.

Best Practice:

• Always store the boxed reel in a dry, ventilated area, away from sinks, windows, or water-based products.
• Keep it in its original box, which helps shield it from airborne moisture and dust.
• For long-term storage, consider sealing off cut portions in resealable plastic bags or dry boxes.

2. Cut Clean Lengths, Don’t Tear

Although it’s tempting to tear off a handful of wool, doing so can result in uneven edges and wasted product. Using scissors or snips allows you to take exactly what you need—especially important on detail-sensitive work.

Why it matters:

• Clean cuts prevent unravelling, wasted material, and loose fibres ending up in your finish.
• It makes it easier to portion out consistent lengths for team members or repeat work.

3. Shake It Out After Use

After use—especially on dirty or oily surfaces—your Trollull can become loaded with debris. This reduces its cutting effectiveness and can cause surface contamination if reused.

Quick tip:
Give it a shake or brush out particles before storing, and discard pads that are overly clogged or oily. For repetitive tasks (e.g. metal polishing), consider assigning one pad per material or surface type.

4. Use the Right Grade for the Job

The G3 grade is a coarse steel wool, perfect for:

• Stripping and scouring
• Cutting through grime or finish build-up
• Preparing rough surfaces

But it’s not suited to delicate tasks or ultra-polished surfaces. For softer woods or high-shine finishes, pair it with finer grades (such as G0 or G00) for polishing or buffing. Trollull offers a full grading range to support step-by-step restoration.

5. Avoid Using on Wet Surfaces Without Rinsing After

Trollull G3 can be used damp—but don’t leave it sitting wet or reuse it once soaked, as this accelerates corrosion and can create rust stains on worktops, tools, or stone.

What to do instead:

• Use a damp cloth or water spray alongside the steel wool, not soaking it directly.
• Rinse and thoroughly dry your surfaces and tools afterward to prevent rust contamination.

6. Safety First: Gloves and Goggles

Steel wool can splinter, especially when cut or used with force. While G3 isn’t particularly sharp, it can still irritate the skin or eyes if fibres dislodge.

Recommended PPE:

• Gloves (especially when scrubbing metal or using solvents)
• Eye protection if using at high speed or in confined spaces
• Mask if working with older paint, varnish, or rust particles

Small Habits, Big Payoff

The 450g Trollull Boxed Reel G3 is a durable, high-performance material designed to save time and deliver professional results. But like any quality tool, it performs best when looked after properly.

A few simple habits—like storing it dry, cutting clean lengths, and shaking it out between uses—can extend its lifespan, improve results, and help your team work smarter.

Steel wool is simple—but when treated well, it’s simply unbeatable.

Stock up or ask about trade packs:
Order the Trollull G3 Boxed Reel today or contact Crawshaws for trade pricing and expert advice.