How do you ensure the longevity and accuracy of a tape measure?

Ensuring the longevity and accuracy of your tape measure requires proper care, regular maintenance, and careful use.
Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Store your tape measure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, or humidity. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can damage the tape measure, causing it to bend, stretch, or lose accuracy. Use a protective cover: If your tape measure has a retractable mechanism, place it in a protective cover when not in use to protect it from dust, dirt, and physical damage. The protective cover can also help prevent accidental retraction, which can damage the internal spring mechanism. Keep away from chemicals: Avoid storing your tape measure near harsh chemicals, solvents, or cleaners that can damage the tape measure material (especially if it is made of fabric or plastic-coated steel).
Wipe your tape measure regularly: Dust, dirt, or debris can affect the smooth operation of your tape measure. Clean your tape measure regularly with a soft cloth or brush to prevent dirt buildup, especially around the tape retraction mechanism and housing.
Avoid using abrasive materials: When cleaning your tape measure, avoid using abrasive sponges or chemicals that can scratch or damage the surface.
Inspect your tape measure for damage: Inspect your tape measure for wear, stretching, or kinks. Over time, especially with frequent use, a tape measure may develop areas of wear, which can cause inaccurate measurements. Check for rust or corrosion: Steel or metal tape measures can rust over time, especially if exposed to moisture. If this happens, clean the tape carefully and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Some tape measures are coated with rust-resistant materials, but it's still a good idea to check regularly. Check the locking mechanism: Make sure the tape measure's locking mechanism is working properly. A faulty lock can cause the tape measure to retract unexpectedly or not stay in place, affecting accuracy.
Avoid bending the tape measure at sharp angles: Never bend a tape measure at extreme angles, as this can cause the tape measure to kink or become deformed, affecting the accuracy of your measurements.
Check accuracy regularly: If your tape measure is used frequently, check its accuracy regularly. You can compare your measurements to a known reference, such as a steel ruler or a known length. This can help identify any stretching or inaccuracies that may have developed over time. Test the end hook for accuracy: The metal hook at the end of the tape measure (which is used to hook onto an object to measure) can also affect accuracy if it is bent or misaligned. Make sure the hook is not damaged and that it moves slightly to accommodate the thickness of the tape measure, especially when measuring inside or outside dimensions.
Do Not Force the Locking Mechanism: Do not force the lock if it is not properly engaged. A stuck lock can damage the tape measure, affecting its functionality. Lubricate Regularly: Occasionally lubricating the internal components of the tape measure (especially the retraction spring) with a small amount of silicone spray will help keep it running smoothly. Avoid using too much oil or grease as it will attract dust.