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Keep Your Clippers Cutting Butter-Smooth
A hair clipper is an essential tool for anyone who wants to maintain a well-groomed look at home. However, did you know that regular oiling and maintenance are critical to ensuring your hair clipper remains in top condition?
Oiling your hair clipper is one key aspect of maintenance you shouldn’t overlook. In fact, proper oiling is crucial for keeping your clipper’s performance at its optimal level. It reduces friction between the blades, decreases noise and heat levels, prevents rust and corrosion, and extends the lifespan of your clipper.
Imagine the frustration of going to trim your hair and experiencing poor performance due to lack of proper oiling and maintenance. Not only does it put you in a bad mood, but it can also ruin your entire grooming experience. That’s why regularly oiling your clipper as part of your maintenance routine is so important.
In this article, we’ll discuss the key benefits of oiling, how often to oil, steps for oiling properly, what to avoid, and other essential hair clipper care tips. Follow these guidelines for smooth, comfortable cuts every time.
The Benefits of Oiling Your Hair Clipper
Here are some of the top benefits that come from properly oiling your hair clippers on a regular basis:
Extends the Lifespan of Your Clipper
One of the best reasons to routinely oil your hair clipper is that it will substantially extend the lifespan of your clipper. The oil provides a protective layer that prevents the blades from wearing down too quickly. This allows you to use your clippers reliably for years instead of needing to replace them frequently.
Improves Cutting Performance
An oiled clipper simply cuts better. Well-lubricated blades glide smoothly over the hair without pulling, sticking, or causing uneven cuts that require multiple passes. This makes the cutting experience much more comfortable and efficient.
Reduces Noise & Heat
Friction between dry, un-oiled blades can generate quite a bit of heat and noise. Proper lubrication minimizes this bothersome friction. The cutting process will be cooler and quieter as a result.
Prevents Rusting & Corrosion
Like any metal component, clipper blades are susceptible to rust and corrosion over time, especially if exposed to moisture. Keeping them lightly coated in oil forms a protective barrier against oxidative damage.
Saves Money
Taking the time to properly maintain your clippers, including regular oiling, will save you money in the long run. Well-cared for clippers will deliver years of reliable service compared to neglected tools that require expensive repairs or replacement.
As you can see, there are numerous benefits to be gained from oiling your clippers. Just a few minutes of maintenance pays off!
How Often Should You Oil Your Clippers?
When it comes to oiling frequency, the general guideline is to oil as often as you use the clippers. Here are some best practices:
- For occasional use, such as once a week or less, you can oil the blades once a week.
- If you use your clippers daily or near-daily, oil the blades after every 2 haircuts or so.
- For heavy commercial use with multiple cuts per day, it’s a good idea to oil after each use.
Over-oiling your clippers can be problematic because excess oil attracts hair clippings, dead skin, and dirt. All this grime then builds up on the blades and impairs their cutting ability. It’s better to be conservative and under-oil than overdo it.
Also ke,ep in mind that you should only oil clean blades. Any debris on the blades will just get mixed in with the fresh oil, contributing to the aforementioned buildup. So be sure to brush or wipe your clippers first.
While oiling your clippers adds another step to your routine, it’s quick and easy once you get the habit down. The performance benefits and longevity dividends are well worth the small time investment.
Step-By-Step Guide to Properly Oiling Clippers
Oiling your clippers is simple and straight forward. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough:
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Pick a clean, well-lit spot where you can comfortably work on your clippers. Have a chair for sitting and an electrical outlet nearby to plug them in. Gather the following supplies:
- Hair clippers
- Clipper oil
- Clean cloths or paper towels
- Small brush (an old toothbrush works well)
Clear some workspace area and lay out your supplies.
2. Clean the Blades
Inspect the blades and use a small brush or toothbrush to gently remove any loose hairs, skin flakes, or surface debris. You want the blades as clean as possible before applying fresh oil.
For more thorough cleaning, use blade wash spray or soap and water to remove built-up grime. Dry thoroughly with a cloth or blow dryer afterwards.
3. Apply the Clipper Oil
With the cleaned blades facing up, lay 2-3 small drops of clipper oil evenly along the top surface. Less is more here – you don’t need huge droplets. Capillary action will spread the oil across and down in between the teeth.
Focus on oiling areas that move against each other. But avoid getting oil on handle grips or plastic guards.
4. Turn Clippers On Briefly
Turn your clippers on for about 10 seconds. This helps work the oil into the nooks and crannies. If your clipper has a taper adjustment lever, move it back and forth a few times as well.
Be careful not to run too long here. The danger is flinging off excess oil, making a mess.
5. Remove Excess Oil
After turning off the clippers, thoroughly wipe away any pooled or globs of excess oil with your cloth or paper towel. You want a light coating on the blades, not heavy dripping oil.
Excess oil only attracts more dirt and debris you’re trying to avoid. It can also transfer to the hair during cutting.
And that’s it! With just a few minutes of effort, you have properly oiled blades ready for smooth, efficient cutting.
What to Avoid When Oiling Your Clippers
To get the most out of your clipper oil while avoiding potential issues, keep these pointers in mind:
- Never oil dirty blades – Always clean first to avoid trapping debris
- Don’t over-oil – More oil does not mean better lubrication
- Avoid substitutes – Stick to purpose-made clipper oils
- Don’t oil plastic guards – Focus only on the metal blades
Following the proper oiling techniques outlined above will keep your clippers running their best.
Additional Hair Clipper Care Tips
Oiling is just one aspect of proper clipper maintenance. Here are some other tips for keeping your clippers in tip-top shape:
- Clean & disinfect after each use – Remove hair, dirt, and germs
- Sharpen blades regularly – Keep edges sharp for easy cutting
- Store properly – Keep in a clean, dry, secure place
- Replace clipper oil when empty – And keep extra on hand
- Service annually – Have blades professionally sharpened/aligned
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Things like acetone can damage blades
Caring for your quality clippers doesn’t take much time but will keep them functioning like new. Follow these best practices and they’ll deliver smooth, even cuts for years.
Oiling Your Clippers – Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about oiling hair clippers:
What type of oil should I use?
You’ll want to use oil specifically formulated for clippers and hair trimmers. Look for oils labeled as clipper oil, trimmer oil, or blade oil. Sewing machine oil also works well. Avoid using household oils.
How much oil should I apply?
A few small drops along the blades is perfect – enough to coat without being excessive. Over-oiling can make a mess and attract debris. If the blades look shiny, that’s sufficient oil.
How often should I oil my clippers?
A general rule is to oil as often as you use them. For home use, that typically means oiling every 1-2 weeks. Frequent professional use requires daily oiling. Always oil before longest period of non-use.
Should I oil before or after use?
It’s best to oil clippers after use when blades are warm. Cold, congealed oils don’t spread as well. Be sure to wipe away hair and dirt first.
What problems cause a need for oiling?
Signs your clippers need lubrication include increased noise, heat, pulling hair, visible corrosion, reduced battery life. Basically anything that impairs smooth cutting.
Can I use household oils?
No. Cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil seem logical but don’t lubricate well. Products like WD-40 also should not be used. Always use purpose-made clipper oils.
How do I clean clipper blades?
Use a small brush or toothbrush to remove loose hair and debris regularly. For deeper cleaning, use clipper blade wash and rinse thoroughly. Dry immediately to avoid rust.
FAQ
Q: How do I oil hair clippers?
A: To oil hair clippers, you will need to apply a few drops of hair clipper oil to the blades. Make sure the clippers are turned off before applying the oil. Start by removing any hair or debris from the blades. Then, apply a drop of oil to the blades and turn on the clippers for a few seconds to allow the oil to spread evenly. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
Q: Can I use any type of oil to lubricate my clippers?
A: It is essential to use hair clipper oil to lubricate your clippers. Hair clipper oil is specifically designed to provide the necessary lubrication for the blades and keep them running smoothly. Using other types of oils, such as mineral oil or sewing machine oil, can damage the blades and reduce their lifespan.
Q: How often do I need to oil my clippers?
A: It is recommended to oil your clippers before or after each use. Regular oiling helps to maintain the performance and longevity of the blades. If you are using your clippers frequently or on multiple clients, you may need to oil them more often.
Q: What are the benefits of oiling hair clippers?
A: Oiling hair clippers has several benefits. It helps to reduce friction between the blades, preventing overheating and prolonging the life of the blades. It also helps to maintain the sharpness of the blades, ensuring smooth and precise cuts. Additionally, oiling the clippers helps to remove any debris or hair trapped in the blades, keeping them clean and hygienic.
Q: How do I clean and oil my clippers?
A: To clean and oil your clippers, start by removing any hair or debris from the blades. Then, apply a few drops of hair clipper oil to the blades. Turn on the clippers for a few seconds to allow the oil to spread evenly. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth. Regular cleaning and oiling will help to maintain the performance and longevity of your clippers.
Q: Can I use baby oil to lubricate my clippers?
A: It is best to use hair clipper oil to lubricate your clippers. Baby oil may not provide the necessary lubrication and protection for the blades. Using the recommended hair clipper oil will help to ensure the optimal performance of your clippers.
Q: Do I need to oil my clippers before or after I cut hair?
A: It is recommended to oil your clippers before or after each use. This helps to maintain the performance and longevity of the blades. Oiling the clippers before cutting hair ensures smooth operation and optimal performance. Oiling them after use helps to remove any hair or debris trapped in the blades and keeps them running smoothly.
Q: How do I know if my clippers need oiling?
A: If your clippers are not cutting hair smoothly or if you notice any increased friction or heat during use, it may be a sign that your clippers need oiling. Regular oiling will help to prevent these issues and keep your clippers in good working condition.
Q: How do I oil my clipper’s blades?
A: To oil your clipper’s blades, start by removing any hair or debris from the blades. Then, apply a few drops of hair clipper oil directly to the blades. Turn on the clippers for a few seconds to allow the oil to spread evenly. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth. Regular oiling of the clipper blades will help to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan.
Q: How do I properly oil my clippers?
A: To properly oil your clippers, start by removing any hair or debris from the blades. Then, apply a few drops of hair clipper oil to the blades. Turn on the clippers for a few seconds to allow the oil to spread evenly. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth. Following this process will ensure that the clippers are properly lubricated and ready for use.
Conclusion
Regularly oiling and maintaining your hair clippers is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Follow the tips above to properly lubricate the blades, prevent grime buildup, reduce friction and heat, and keep your clippers running smoothly for the perfect cut every time. The small time investment is well worth it!
With proper care and oiling, your clippers can deliver smooth, even, comfortable cuts for many years. Don’t neglect this important maintenance task. Your hair – and wallet – will thank you!