Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to clean and oil your clipper blades for optimal longevity. As a clipper owner, you understand the importance of having sharp and functional blades for achieving a precise haircut every time. With regular use, however, your blades can become dull, leading to inefficient performance and potential damage to the clippers and your pet's coat. That's why it's essential to know how to properly clean and oil your clipper blades.
Why is cleaning and oiling your clipper blades important?
Proper maintenance of clipper blades is crucial to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. When your blades are sharp and well-maintained, you can achieve precise haircuts without tugging or pulling on the hair. Regular cleaning and oiling also helps prevent overheating of the clipper motor, which can lead to damage and reduced lifespan.
Maintaining clipper blades is especially important for professional groomers who rely on their clippers for daily use. Dull or damaged blades can result in uneven cuts, unhappy dogs, and potential damage to the clippers themselves. By investing a little time in maintaining your clipper blades, you can save money on replacements and provide the best groom.
The signs that your clipper blades need cleaning and oiling.
Knowing when your clipper blades need maintenance is essential to ensure you're always working with sharp and efficient tools. Here are a few signs that indicate it's time to clean and oil your clipper blades:
1. Dull or uneven cuts: If you notice that your clipper blades are not cutting smoothly or are leaving behind uneven patches of coat, it's a clear indication that they need maintenance. Dull blades can result in hair tugging and discomfort for the dog being groomed.
2. Increased heat or noise: If your clippers are running hotter than usual or making more noise than usual, it could be a sign that the blades are not properly lubricated. Overheating can lead to motor damage, so it's important to address this issue promptly.
3. Hair pulling or snagging: When your clipper blades are not sharp, they tend to pull or snag the coat instead of cutting it cleanly. This can be painful and result in an uneven clip. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue and ensure a smooth cutting experience.
Clipper blades can get dirty, which can make your groom less than perfect. To remove the dirt and debris from your clipper blades, use a cleaning solution that is specifically made for clippers, like Clipit Ice Care Spray. Easy and convenient, this spray should be used to clean your clipper blades after each time they are used.
Regular cleaning and oiling of clipper blades is mandatory for your clipper blades to work correctly. With any dog clippers, it is essential that you remove the hair, sanitise and oil after every use. However, if you are using them in a professional manner, is the routine the same?
If you are using your dog clippers in a professional manner as a dog groomer, you are probably clipping over 4 dogs per day. Leaving your clipper blades dirty and with no oil, will cause your equipment to deteriorate quickly. Blades can get clogged up with hair very quickly, won't cut properly, which results in the coat being pulled as you cut and patchy, uneven hair cuts.
Cleaning and oiling your clipper blades is a simple task that should be undertaken every few minutes, with a good clean after each dog. Here is our guide on how to maintain and oil your clipper blades.
Step by Step Guide to Cleaning and Oiling Clipper Blades
Step 1: Removing hair and debris from clipper blades
Start by unplugging your clippers and removing the blade. This will allow you to access the blade more easily for thorough cleaning. Using a clipper brush, gently remove any hair or debris that may have accumulated between the blades. Be sure to brush in the direction of the teeth to avoid damaging the blades.
Once you have removed the visible hair, inspect the blades for any hidden debris. Use a toothbrush or cotton swab to reach the tight spots and remove any remaining buildup. Take your time during this step to ensure that all the hair and debris are thoroughly removed.
Step 2: Cleaning clipper blades with a blade wash solution
Now that the visible hair and debris have been removed, it's time to clean the clipper blades using a blade wash solution. Follow these steps:
1. Fill a small container with the blade wash solution, making sure there is enough liquid to fully submerge the blades.
2. Carefully place the blades into the solution, ensuring that they are completely immersed. Let them soak for the recommended amount of time specified on the product label.
3. While the blades are soaking, gently agitate the solution with a toothbrush or your clipper brush to help dislodge any remaining debris.
4. After the recommended soaking time, remove the blades from the solution and dry the blades thoroughly using a clean, lint-free cloth. Ensure that there is no moisture left on the blades before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Drying and inspecting clipper blades
Once you have removed the blades from the blade wash solution and dried them, it's essential to inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. Look for:
1. Rust or corrosion: If you notice any signs of rust or corrosion on the blades, it's important to address this issue before further use. Rust can cause the blades to become dull and can also be harmful to skin.
2. Nicks or chips: Inspect the blades for any nicks or chips that may affect their cutting performance. If you notice any damage, consider replacing the blades or seeking professional sharpening services.
3. Alignment: Ensure that the blades are properly aligned and parallel to each other. Misaligned blades can result in uneven cuts and potential damage to the clippers.
If you notice any significant damage or issues with the blades, it's best to consult the manufacturer or a professional for further guidance. Addressing these problems early on will help maintain the longevity of your clipper blades.
Step 4: Applying clipper blade oil for lubrication
Now that your clipper blades are clean and dry, it's time to apply a few drops of clipper blade oil to ensure proper lubrication. Follow these steps:
1. Hold the clipper blades upright or at a slight angle to prevent the oil from dripping onto the clipper motor.
2. Apply a few drops of clipper blade oil along the length of the blades. Be careful not to overdo it, as excessive oil can attract more debris and cause buildup.
3. Turn on the clippers and let them run for a few seconds to distribute the oil evenly across the blades. This will help ensure smooth and efficient operation.
4. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth, making sure not to touch the blades directly with your fingers. Oil on the blades can transfer to the coat and cause greasiness.
It's important to note that clipper blade oil should be applied every 5-10 minutes to maintain optimal performance. Regular oiling helps reduce friction and heat buildup, ensuring that your clipper blades stay sharp and functional for longer.
Common mistakes to avoid when maintaining clipper blades
While maintaining your clipper blades, it's important to avoid the following common mistakes:
1. Using water: Water can cause rust and damage to the clipper blades. Always use a specialised blade wash solution for cleaning purposes.
2. Skipping oiling: Regular oiling is crucial for optimal blade performance. Skipping this step can result in increased friction, heat, and premature blade wear.
3. Using low-quality oil: Invest in a high-quality clipper blade oil that is specifically formulated for this purpose. Using cheap or inappropriate oils can cause buildup and damage the blades.
4. Forgetting to inspect: Regularly inspecting your clipper blades for damage or wear is essential. Ignoring signs of damage can lead to poor performance and potential harm to your hair and skin.
By avoiding these mistakes and following the correct maintenance procedures, you can ensure that your clipper blades remain sharp, efficient, and reliable.
Conclusion: The importance of regular maintenance for clipper blades
Maintaining your clipper blades is a necessary step in ensuring their longevity and optimal performance. By following the step-by-step guide we have provided, you can keep your blades sharp, efficient, and safe to use.
Regular cleaning, proper lubrication, and thorough inspections are key to maintaining the lifespan of your clipper blades. Remember to invest in high-quality tools and materials and avoid common mistakes that can damage your blades.
Whether you are a professional barber or someone who enjoys cutting their hair at home, the effort you put into maintaining your clipper blades will pay off in the long run. With sharp and well-maintained blades, you can achieve precise haircuts without any hassle or discomfort.
So, take the time to clean, oil, and inspect your clipper blades regularly. Your clippers will thank you, and you'll enjoy the benefits of clean, efficient, and long-lasting performance. Happy clipping!