Whether you’re a professional barber or someone who enjoys grooming at home, keeping your clipper blades in peak condition is essential. Regular maintenance ensures precise cuts, extends the lifespan of your equipment, and keeps your tools hygienic. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to clean clipper blades step by step, explain why it’s important, and share pro tips to help you maintain your clippers like a true expert.
Why Cleaning Clipper Blades is Essential
Your clipper blades endure constant use, cutting through thick hair and handling various textures. Without proper cleaning, dirt, hair, and oils can build up between the blades, causing:
- Dull performance: Clogged blades won’t cut efficiently, leading to uneven trims or snagging.
- Overheating: Debris adds friction, making the blades run hotter and potentially irritating your client’s skin.
- Rust and corrosion: Moisture left on the blades can lead to rust, reducing their lifespan.
- Bacterial growth: Dirty clippers can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infections or skin irritations for clients.
Learning how to clean clipper blades correctly will ensure your tools stay sharp, hygienic, and reliable.
How Often Should You Clean Clipper Blades?
To keep your clippers functioning at their best, it’s important to establish a cleaning routine. Here are a few general guidelines:
- Daily or between clients: If you’re a professional barber, clean the blades after each use to maintain hygiene.
- After every 2-3 uses: For home users, a quick clean after every couple of uses will prevent buildup and maintain performance.
- Deep cleaning: Aim for a thorough cleaning once a week or whenever the blades feel clogged or the performance dips.
Now that we know why cleaning clipper blades is essential, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Clipper Blades
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Clipper
Safety first! Always make sure the clippers are turned off and unplugged before you start cleaning. If your clippers run on a battery, remove it to prevent accidental activation.
Step 2: Remove Loose Hair and Debris
Use a small brush to gently sweep away hair stuck between the blades. Many clippers come with a cleaning brush, but a toothbrush or a soft bristle brush will also work well.
Pro Tip: Blow compressed air between the blades for a deeper clean. This is particularly useful if you cut thick or curly hair, which can be harder to remove manually.
Step 3: Clean the Blades with a Blade Wash or Alcohol Solution
Now it’s time to disinfect and remove any stubborn residue. Here’s how:
- Blade wash: Specialized blade wash solutions are designed to clean and lubricate clipper blades simultaneously. Simply pour some into a small dish, submerge the blades while the clipper is running (if the manual allows), and let it run for 30 seconds.
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher): Alternatively, you can use rubbing alcohol. Dip a cloth or cotton ball in alcohol and wipe the blades thoroughly. Avoid soaking the entire clipper body to prevent damage to the motor.
This step kills bacteria and dissolves grease or oils clinging to the blades.
Step 4: Dry the Blades Thoroughly
Once the blades are clean, dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or paper towel. Make sure no moisture remains on the surface, as this can lead to rust. You can also let the blades air dry for a few minutes to ensure they are completely moisture-free.
Step 5: Oil the Blades
Oiling your blades is crucial for maintaining their performance. After cleaning and drying, apply a few drops of clipper oil directly onto the blades. Run the clipper for a few seconds to evenly distribute the oil, then wipe off any excess.
Pro Tip: Never use household oils like olive oil or WD-40. These can clog the blades and attract more dirt. Stick to specialized clipper oil for the best results.
Step 6: Reassemble and Test the Clippers
If you removed the blades for cleaning, carefully reattach them following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once reassembled, turn on the clipper to ensure it’s running smoothly. A well-maintained clipper will sound quieter and feel smoother when cutting hair.
Additional Tips for Keeping Clipper Blades Clean and Sharp
- Store your clippers properly: After each use, place the clippers in a protective case or pouch to keep them safe from dust and moisture.
- Sharpen your blades regularly: Even with proper cleaning, clipper blades will eventually need sharpening. Pay attention to signs of dullness, such as uneven cuts or hair-pulling.
- Use blade guards: Blade guards not only protect your clipper blades but also reduce the buildup of hair and dust.
- Don’t forget the rest of the clipper: While the blades are the most important part, the clipper body and motor also need occasional cleaning. Use a cloth to wipe the exterior and ensure the vents are free of debris.
- Replace worn blades: If your blades are beyond sharpening or show signs of rust, it’s time to replace them to maintain top performance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Clipper Blades
While cleaning clipper blades isn’t complicated, there are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping oiling: Neglecting to oil the blades will increase friction and cause them to wear out faster.
- Using water to clean blades: Water can cause rust if not completely dried. Stick to alcohol or blade wash solutions.
- Over-oiling: Too much oil can attract dirt and clog the blades. A few drops are enough.
- Forgetting to clean between clients: For barbers, failing to clean tools between clients can spread bacteria and hurt your reputation.
How Clean Clipper Blades Improve Performance and Longevity
Learning how to clean clipper blades properly has long-term benefits for both professionals and home users. Here’s how:
- Smooth, precise cuts: Clean blades cut effortlessly, improving the quality of your haircuts.
- Longer blade life: Regular maintenance reduces wear and tear, saving you money in the long run.
- Reduced overheating: Proper cleaning and lubrication prevent blades from heating up too quickly.
- Enhanced hygiene: Clean tools build trust with clients and keep your equipment sanitary.
Make Clean Clipper Blades a Priority
Whether you’re a professional barber or a grooming enthusiast, knowing how to clean clipper blades is essential for maintaining performance and hygiene. With a few simple steps—removing debris, disinfecting with alcohol or blade wash, drying thoroughly, and applying oil—you can keep your clippers in peak condition.
Clean blades mean precise cuts, happier clients, and a longer lifespan for your equipment. Make clipper maintenance a regular habit, and you’ll enjoy smoother, more efficient grooming sessions every time.
So, don’t wait until your clippers start dragging or overheating. Follow this guide from NOS barber Supply, and you’ll always have sharp, clean blades ready to work their magic. Happy grooming!
Written by Patrick Blum, Jameson Sessa & Jack Young