It is essential to keep hair clippers sharp to ensure they perform at their best. Dull clipper blades can cause discomfort and irritation to the scalp, resulting in uneven haircuts, pulled hair, and even infection. This article aims to provide informative knowledge on how to sharpen hair clippers, the recommended frequency of sharpening, and fixing clippers that pull hair.
From selecting the right sharpening tools to performing regular maintenance, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your fading clippers in the best shape.
Many techniques for sharpening hair clippers, using stone, sandpaper, aluminum foil, and salt, will be covered in the following sections. Together with detailed instructions for each technique, we’ll also include tips for getting the best results. We’ll also review the advantages of self-sharpening hair clippers and how to tell when they need to be sharpened. Lastly, we’ll discuss how to avoid hair tugging and prolong the life of your hair clippers.
What You Need to Sharpen Hair Clippers
Before sharpening the blades of hair clippers, you will need a few things in the tool kit:
- Screwdriver
- Tooth or cleaning brush
- Safe container
- Sharpening Stone/Grinding Stone/Whetstone
- Cotton wool balls
- Warm water/Cleaning solution/Blade wash
- Rag or Paper towel
- Clipper oil
- Dry cloth
- Marker/Pen
These materials are readily available at home for people questioning how to sharpen clippers at your place.
How To Sharpen Hair Clippers
There are several methods for sharpening hair clippers, each with benefits and drawbacks. Below are some of the most common ways for this:
Sharpening Hair Clipper with a Stone
Using a sharpening stone is one of the most effective ways to sharpen hair clipper blades. Here’s how to do it:
- Disassemble the clippers to remove the blades.
- Move the blade back and forth across the stone while holding it at a 30-degree angle.
- Repeat the procedure on the opposite side by flipping the blade over.
- Until the blade is sharp, repeat the process with a finer gritstone.
- Test the clippers after reassembling them.
The Rich Barber Clipper Blade Sharpener
Check Price on AmazonSharpen Hair Clippers with Sandpaper
Sandpaper is another option to make the clipper blade sharper.
Follow the steps:
- Cut the sandpaper into a strip that is the exact length of the blade.
- Hold the blade at a 30-degree angle while wrapping the sandpaper around it.
- Circularly move it back and forth.
- Repeat the steps on the opposite side by rotating the blade.
- Until it is sharp, repeat the process using sandpaper with a finer grain.
- Reattach the clippers after brushing or wiping the blade clean.
Sand Paper – 60 Pcs Sheets
Check Price on AmazonSharpen Hair Clipper with Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is a quick and easy method for sharpening hair clipper blades.
- Fold a sheet of aluminum foil multiple times to create a thick pad.
- Turn on the clippers and run the blades over the foil pad several times.
- Test the clippers to see if the edges are sharp enough.
- If they are still dull, repeat the method.
Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil
Check Price on AmazonClick on the link to read in detail how to sharpen clipper blades with aluminum foil.
Salt to Sharpen Hair Clipper Blade
Sharpening hair clipper blades with salt is a standard method, but it is less effective than other methods.
- Mix salt and water to create a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the blades and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse the edges with water and dry them.
- Test the clippers to see if the edges are sharp enough.
- If the blades are still dull, start the process again.
Steps to Sharpen Hair Clippers - Sharpening Techniques
Whether you’re a professional barber or a DIY hair enthusiast, this will provide valuable information to enhance your cutting skills and achieve the best results.
Step 1: Disassemble the Clippers
You should detach the clippers before you can begin sharpening the blades. Doing this gives you direct access to the edges and prevents accidentally harming other clipper components. The blade guard, top blade, and bottom blade must be removed from the clippers before opening them. For precise disassembly, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
SUNHZMCKP 8 in 1 Screwdriver for Outdoor and Daily Repair Tools
Check Price on AmazonStep 2: Clean the Blades
After removing the blades, clean them. Cleaning will make it easier to spot any scratches or other damage the sharpening procedure would require fixing. Use a soft-bristled brush or a towel to remove any hair or debris trapped on the blades. The oiling can also be applied on blades, but wipe off any extra oil before moving on to the next step.
Clipper Blade Cleaning Brush
Check Price on AmazonStep 3: Check for Damage
After cleaning the blades, inspecting them thoroughly for any damage is essential. Look for any nicks, chips, or uneven wear on the blades. If the breakage is severe, replacing the blades rather than simply sharpening them may be necessary. However, if it is minimal, the sharpening process is safe. It is crucial to ensure the edges are in good condition before using them again to avoid any potential accidents or harm to the equipment.
Additionally, regular inspections and maintenance of the blades can prolong their lifespan and observe optimal performance. It is also a good idea to keep spare blades on hand in case of emergency replacements.
Step 4: Sharp the Blades
You will want gritstone to rub the blades. You may use a general-purpose sharpening stone or invest in Whetstone for hair clipper blades. Holding it up against the edge first, carefully glide the blade back and forth over the stone. Make sure to sharpen the blade on both sides uniformly.
It’s crucial to remember that different materials are used to make different types of hair clipper blades and that sharpening requirements vary. Carbon steel blades should be polished with fine gritstone, and stainless steel blades need medium size stone.
Sharpening Stone Kit
Step 5: Reassemble the Clippers
Once you have finished honing the blades of your clippers, it is essential to reattach them. This will ensure the clippers function correctly and the edges are aligned perfectly. First, gather all the clippers pieces and lay them out before you. Make sure that you have all of the necessary parts, including the blades, the motor, and the handle.
Next, carefully place the blades back into their proper position. Make sure that they are securely attached and that they are aligned correctly. Once the edges of the clippers are in place, you can connect the rest. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with your clippers, as different models may have other assembly procedures.
Step 6: Test the Clippers
Ensuring they are working correctly before using clippers on a client or yourself is vital. One way to do this is to test them on a small section of hair. This will allow you to see if they cut the hair evenly and effectively. Suppose the clippers are not cutting the hair properly; in that case, adjusting the blade or cleaning the clippers may be necessary before using them on a client or yourself.
Testing the clippers on a small section of hair is a quick and easy way to ensure they work correctly and can save time and frustration in the long run. It can also prevent accidents and bad haircuts if the clippers are not functioning accurately.
How Often to Sharpen Hair Clippers Blades?
It would help if you kept hair clippers sharp to maintain optimal performance. Nevertheless, how frequently should you sharpen your clippers? How frequently you use your clippers and the sorts of hair you cut will determine how often you need to sharpen them.
Sharpening clippers’ blades every few months is recommended for professional barbers and hair stylists who use them daily. It will help maintain maximum cutting ability and extend the lifespan of your clippers.
Refining them at least once a year is recommended for home users who use them less frequently. However, if your clippers are not cutting as efficiently as before, it may be time to sharpen them sooner.
If your clippers need sharpening, look for signs such as pulling or snagging of hair, uneven cutting, or blades that appear dull or chipped. If you notice these symbols, it’s time to sharpen your clippers.
Do hair clippers need to be sharpened?
The majority of hair clippers include an automatic sharpening mechanism. It keeps the blades sharp but loses their sharpness if not continually cleaned. To prevent improper sharpening, cleanse the tool to eliminate hair and rust. You can check our post on the cleaning process.
If your clippers start biting the skin and tugging the hair, it means they need sharpening.
Hair Clipper Maintenance Tips
Whether you make it or buy it, repairing haircutters is vital for long use and protection.
- For exact cleaning, sharpening, and lubrication requirements for your particular clipper model, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
- You can also use honing oil or paste to lubricate the honing stone and the blades.
- Depending on usage, it is advised to sharpen your blades every 6 to 12 months.
- Avoid cutting through matted or thick hair; wipe the blades off with a clean, dry towel after each use. This will help your clipper blades last longer.
What Is The Best Way To Sharpen Clipper Blades?
Each time the cutting blade is used to cut hair, it sustains some damage. The strength of the hair affects how much damage, or “ding,” occurs. A blade becomes duller more quickly and sustains more damage when it has coarse or dense hair.
It’s crucial to remember that water shouldn’t be used to clean clippers since doing so might result in rust. The lifespan of the blades may be shortened, and more damage may result. Use a dry towel or specialized blade cleaning solution to maintain the clippers’ functionality.
Self-Sharpening Hair Clippers
Self-sharpening hair clippers are becoming increasingly popular in the hair care industry, with more and more brands offering this type of clipper. These clippers feature a unique design that allows them to sharpen their blades while they’re being used. This means the blades remain sharp for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- One of the main benefits of self-sharpening clippers is that they save time and effort. With traditional clippers, you need to sharpen the blades manually, which can be time-consuming. However, with self-sharpening clippers, the blades are always sharp, so you don’t need to worry about sharpening them yourself.
- Another benefit of auto sharpening is that they are more durable than traditional clippers. This is because the blades are constantly being sharpened, which helps to prevent wear and tear. In addition, this mechanism is often designed to be more robust than the blades of conventional clippers so that they can withstand more use.
- When compared to standard clippers, these are generally more expensive. However, many people believe their benefits are worth the extra cost. Investing in these clippers may be a wise choice if you use hair clippers frequently.
Final Words
Regularly rubbing the blades may preserve your hair clippers’ effectiveness and longevity. By following this article’s guidelines, you can ensure that your clippers are always performing at their best. Remember to sharpen your blades every six to twelve months and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of clipper you use.
