Canola oil like its counterparts, is still effective to use on hair clippers? Well, it’s always better to go for the special clipper oils. But, if you don’t have the trimmer lubricating oil then you can choose the alternatives such as canola oil, olive oil, etc.
The important point is to know the facts about whether these natural oils are suitable for your hair-cutting tools. In this article, you will learn how canola oil is useful or if can you use it.
Can You Use Canola Oil on Hair Clippers?
Canola oil, classified as unsaturated fat, exhibits more flexibility than its highly saturated counterpart, coconut oil. With its spreadability and lubricating properties, canola oil may seem like a good option for various applications. However, its suitability for use on hair clippers requires careful consideration.
In comparison to the lightweight and easily spreadable oils typically used in regular hair clipper oil, canola oil is not as light. Nonetheless, it can still be effective when used as a lubricant.
Mineral oil, on the other hand, is a highly refined petroleum extract known for its excellent lubricating properties and ability to withstand heat.
It does possess certain properties that make it a decent lubricant. When hair clippers operate at high speeds, friction, and heat can build up between the top cutting rail and the top cutter, resulting in blade wear and reduced longevity.
Regular and proper oiling of your hair clippers is crucial to prevent this. Lack of lubrication not only compromises the lifespan of your hair clippers but also affects their cutting performance.
For a lubricant to be effective, it must withstand the heat generated by hair clippers without changing its form. Canola oil fits this requirement.
As a vegetable oil originally intended for cooking and as a lubricant, canola oil can handle temperatures up to 450°F (232°C). Its adequate lubrication helps minimize friction between the blades, restoring your hair clippers’ cutting performance.
Although mineral oil is a thin oil that easily reaches hair clipper blades, when compared to other vegetable oils like olive oil and coconut oil, canola oil can be a preferable choice for lubrication. Canola oil contains the lowest saturated fat content among these options.
Its low saturated fat content allows it to remain in liquid form for extended periods, unlike organic coconut oil, which can rapidly solidify under certain conditions. The ability of canola oil to maintain its liquid state ensures it can effectively penetrate the hair clipper blades, providing the necessary lubrication to reduce friction.
At room temperature, canola oil stays soft and doesn’t form clumps with time. It has beneficial features that make it a viable option but not the first choice.
Canola Oil Pros And Cons
When it comes to using canola oil for hair clipper maintenance, there are several advantages to consider. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks or limitations as well.
Advantages of Canola Oil
- Lightweight Lubrication: Canola oil offers a lightweight lubrication that allows hair clipper blades to glide smoothly through the hair, resulting in a more comfortable and precise cutting experience.
- It is thinner like clipper oils which means it can easily spread onto the blades but doesn’t come out quickly.
- Reduced Friction and Heat: Canola oil helps minimize friction between the blades, reducing wear and tear and preventing excessive heat generation during prolonged use.
- Protection Against Rust and Corrosion: Canola oil acts as a protective barrier, shielding the metal components of the hair clippers from moisture, rust, and corrosion. This protection helps extend the lifespan of the clippers and maintains their cutting performance.
- Cost-Effective Option: Canola oil is generally more affordable compared to some other lubricants, making it a cost-effective choice for regular hair clipper maintenance.
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Check Price on AmazonDrawbacks of Canola Oil
While canola oil is thin, excessive or improper application can lead to residue buildup on the blades and clipper body. It’s important to wipe off any excess oil after application to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
Excess oil that remains inside gets in touch between blades causing rotary motor problems.
When dirt, oil, or hair goes into the motor, it affects the speed with which clippers cut the hair. It results in poor cutting.
Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to canola oil. Canola oil has a limited shelf life compared to some synthetic lubricants.
How to Apply Canola Oil on Hair Clippers
Here is a step-by-step guide for using canola oil:
- Start by turning off and unplugging the hair clipper for safety.
- Remove any hair clippings or debris from the blades using a cleaning brush or a soft cloth.
- Ensure that the blades are clean and dry before proceeding with the oil application.
- Begin by applying a few drops of canola oil onto a clean cloth or a cotton ball.
- Gently hold the cloth or cotton ball against the moving blades of the hair clipper.
- Turn on the clipper for a few seconds, allowing the oil to distribute evenly across the blades.
- If your hair clipper has an adjustable blade, move the lever back and forth to ensure thorough oil application to
- all parts of the blade.
- After applying the canola oil, turn off the clipper and unplug it.
- Take a clean, dry cloth and gently wipe off any excess oil from the blades and clipper body.
- Be thorough in removing excess oil to prevent any buildup or residue that could affect the clipper’s performance.
- Once the excess oil is wiped off, plug in the clipper and turn it on briefly to check if it operates smoothly.
- Test the clipper’s cutting ability by running it through a small section of hair. Ensure that the blades move effortlessly and provide a clean cut.
FAQs
When choosing canola oil for hair clipper maintenance, it is generally recommended to use pure, refined canola oil without any additives or flavorings. Avoid using flavored or infused canola oils, as they may contain additional ingredients that could potentially harm the blades or affect their performance. Stick to plain, pure canola oil for the best results in lubricating and protecting your hair clippers.
The frequency of lubricating your hair clippers with canola oil depends on the frequency of use and the manufacturer’s recommendations. As a general guideline, it is recommended to lubricate your hair clippers with canola oil every 5 to 10 haircuts or about once a month for regular users.
However, if you use the clippers frequently or notice any signs of decreased performance, such as increased friction or heat, it’s a good idea to lubricate them more frequently. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific hair clipper model and adjust the lubrication schedule accordingly.
Conclusion
Canola oil is meant for cooking food, though it has some features that make it feasible on hair trimmers. It cannot be applied for a longer period to care for the clipper blades. You must avoid using it on haircare tools.
I hope you will find this information helpful.
