Barbering: Everything you need to know about hair clipper maintenance

Keeping your barbering clippers clean, sharp, and well-oiled isn't just good for the tool, it's essential for creating the best cuts and maintaining hygiene, especially in a busy barber shop.

Well-maintained clippers give a smoother, more precise cut and can save you time in the long run. Plus, with a little regular care, you’ll extend the life of your clippers, keeping them running like new for longer. 

Welcome to your ultimate guide to hair clipper maintenance, from cleaning and oiling to alignment and storage.

How Do You Clean Hair Clippers?

You'll want to make cleaning part of your routine to get the most out of your clippers.

Hair, oil, and dirt can build up quickly in your clippers, dulling the blades and reducing performance. Regular cleaning keeps your clippers in top condition and is essential for avoiding cross-contamination between clients.

Step 1: Brush Off The Excess Hair

After every use, grab a small brush (like the one often included with clippers) and gently brush away any hair clippings from the blades. This keeps them clear of debris that can clog up the works.

Step 2: Use a Hygienic Spray

Once your blades are hair-free, apply a clipper spray, like the Wahl Hygienic Clipper Spray. This not only cleans but also disinfects, killing germs and bacteria that might linger between clients.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Clippers

Finally, use a soft, slightly damp cloth to give the blades a quick wipe-down, removing any leftover spray or dirt.

What Should You Use To Clean Your Hair Clippers?

A common question is whether or not to use rubbing alcohol on your clippers.

Yes, rubbing alcohol is a great cleaning solution for clippers. You can either dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and wipe down the blades or, for a more thorough clean, dip the blades (while they’re off the clipper) into a shallow container of alcohol.

This will help remove any oils and disinfect the blades. Just be sure to dry the blades completely before reattaching them.

How Do You Oil Your Clipper Blades?

Oiling is another essential step in keeping your clippers running smoothly. Proper lubrication reduces friction, which keeps the blades from overheating and helps them stay sharp.

1. Apply the Oil: With your clippers off, place a few drops of oil on the teeth and the back of the blade – typically, three drops on the teeth and two on the backside.
2. Work the oil Through: If your clippers have a taper arm, move it back and forth to distribute the oil evenly. If not, simply turn on the clippers for a few seconds to let the oil work its way through.
3. Wipe Away Excess: After running the clippers for a moment, turn them off and use a cloth to wipe away any excess oil.

What Kind of Oil Should You Use For Clipper Blades?

Not all oils are created equal. When it comes to clipper blades, stick to light, specialised oils made for clippers, like Wahl Clipper Oil. Heavier oils or household oils can gum up the blades and reduce their efficiency.

How Often Do You Need to Oil Your Clipper Blades?

Ideally, you should oil your clippers after each use, especially if you're using them daily.

This not only keeps them performing at their best but also helps prevent rust and prolongs their lifespan. For occasional users, oiling every few uses should be sufficient.

Storing Your Clipper Blades

Proper storage can also make a big difference in how long your clippers stay sharp and clean. When not in use, make sure your clippers are stored in a dry place, ideally in a protective case.

This keeps dust and moisture away, both of which can dull the blades over time.

If you’re a mobile barber, investing in a case with compartments can also help you stay organised and keep your tools in the best condition possible.

How To Align Your Clipper Blades

Blade alignment is another maintenance step that can improve the quality of your cuts and prevent accidental nicks.

Here’s a quick guide to aligning your blades:

1. Loosen the Screws: Start by slightly loosening the screws on your clipper’s blade.
2. Adjust the Blade Position: Line up the bottom blade just behind the top blade – the edges should be slightly offset to avoid any accidental nicks or cuts.
3. Tighten the Screws: Once the blades are in place, re-tighten the screws to lock them in position. Double-check the alignment to make sure everything looks good.

Final Tips

Maintaining your clippers isn’t just about protecting your tools, it’s about getting the best results and, more importantly, keeping your clients safe. 

Regular cleaning, oiling, proper storage, and alignment all contribute to smooth, sharp, and safe clippers that make your job easier and your cuts cleaner.

Looking to find the perfect clippers or upgrade your current set?

Explore the full range of barbering essentials at CoolBlades, where you'll find options tailored for every hair type and style!

Why Choose CoolBlades for Your Professional Salon Supplies?

We're a family-owned business led by a hairdressing expert with over 30 years of experience. We're dedicated to helping salon professionals like you save money without sacrificing quality.

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