Clipper Blades Need Love Too: The Importance of Regular Oil Maintenance

Clipper blades are an essential component of a grooming professional's toolkit as they are responsible for trimming hair and creating sharp lines that define a hairstyle. However, with regular use, these blades can lose their sharpness, resulting in discomfort or irritation to clients and uneven cuts. To avoid such issues, it is crucial to regularly oil your hair clipper blades. The term "regularly" may vary depending on individual preferences, but it is important to understand the importance of clipper blade oil, how it can be beneficial, and the results that can be achieved by keeping the blades oiled properly during use or storage.

Why is oiling your hair clipper blades important?

Oiling your hair clipper blades is essential for several reasons:

Regularly oiling your clipper blades is crucial for maintaining their performance. Unlike a knife, clipper blades don't have edges; rather, the sharpness is created by the geometric shape of two metal pieces coming together. The principles of shape, tension, and travel all play a part in ensuring a sharp clipper blade. When blades are not properly lubricated, they can become dull, resulting in a less effective cut. This also causes additional wear and tear on the metal and supporting parts of the clipper blade, reducing its lifespan and causing it to overheat.

Proper oiling helps to prolong the lifespan of your clipper blades by preventing rust and corrosion, which can cause deterioration over time. Rust can also clog up the area between the teeth of the comb blade and on the cutting surface, which affects the performance of the blade. Clean and well-oiled blades hold their edge longer and require fewer replacements.

Oiling the blades also reduces friction between the moving parts, which helps to reduce noise and vibration. This also protects the parts that make up the clipper blade, making it more comfortable to use for both the barber and the client.

Furthermore, oiling your hair clipper blades improves hygiene by preventing the buildup of hair and debris on the blades. This buildup can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, so regularly oiling your blades can prevent this while ensuring that they cut properly.

How often should you oil your hair clipper blades?

The frequency of oiling your hair clipper blades is dependent on how often you use the tool. However, it is generally advisable to oil your clipper blades after each use. Although cooling spray is available on the market, it should not be used as a replacement for oil. Instead, it is recommended to use clipper blade oil immediately after using any cooling spray to prevent rust. The orange coloration on the blades is an indication of rust. If you are a professional barber or animal groomer, you may need to oil your blades more frequently based on usage frequency. It is crucial to use oil specifically designed for hair clipper blades as it has the appropriate viscosity to accommodate the blades' design and usage. While any oil is better than no oil, using the appropriate lubrication is essential for optimal performance and longevity.

How to oil your hair clipper blades?

Oiling your hair clipper blades is a straightforward process. Here's how to do it:

To prepare your clipper blades for oiling, ensure that they are free of any debris by using a small brush or toothbrush to remove any hair or dirt. If available, compressed air is the best option to clean the blades thoroughly.

Next, apply a few drops of oil evenly across the entire running surface of the blades, specifically where the two blades come into contact with each other. Apply a few drops to the top surface, the back surface, and the blade guide. The blade guide is important as it can dry out and crack, leading to improper cutting if not lubricated.

Once the oil has been applied, turn on the clipper for a few seconds to allow for even distribution of the oil. It is also possible to apply oil while the clipper is running for a more uniform application.

After turning off the clipper, wipe off any excess oil from the blades using a clean cloth or paper towel. Some professionals prefer to avoid oil showing up in the hair they work with, but what matters most is that the running surfaces are well lubricated. Clipper blade oil is typically clear, odorless, and safe for skin contact.

Conclusion:

Regularly oiling your hair clipper blades is crucial to maintaining their functionality and ensuring top-notch performance. Properly lubricating your clipper blades not only prolongs its lifespan, but also reduces noise and vibration, and maintains its hygiene and safety. It's essential to use the correct oil and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your clipper blades. By taking care of your hair clipper, you can enjoy years of reliable service. For more detailed information on how to care for your equipment, check out our YouTube channel for more blade care videos!