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What Oil is Used to Clean Clippers?

  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

As a professional groomer, barber, hairdresser your clippers are the backbone of your toolkit. But did you know that improper oiling and cleaning could shorten their lifespan—and even risk cross-contamination between grooming pets or even clipping hair?

Action shot of a groomer spraying oil onto running clippers
Clean → Dry → Oil — The Correct Blade Care Order

In this blog, we’re breaking down what oil is used to clean clippers, why it matters, and how to sterilise your clipper blades effectively.


What Oil is Used to Clean Clippers?

One of the most common misconceptions is that oil cleans your clipper blades. It doesn’t.

Clipper oil is not a cleaner—it’s a lubricant. Its main purpose is to:


Reduce friction between the moving blades

Prevent overheating

Protect the cutting edge from wear

Keep stainless steel rust-free


If your blades are already dirty, oily buildup can actually trap dirt, hair, and dander, making them run less efficiently. That’s why a two-step process—clean and then oil—is essential.


The signs when your clipper blades need 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 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 or hair, it's a clear indication that they need maintenance. Dull blades can result in hair tugging and discomfort.


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 instead of cutting cleanly. This can be painful and result in an uneven clip. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue and ensure a smooth cutting experience.

A clean grooming table setup with tools laid out in order.
Clean tools. Cool blades. Safe grooms.

What Should You Use?


While oil isn’t a cleaner, Clipit Easy Oil Spray makes the lubrication step quicker and more effective thanks to its fine mist delivery.


Why groomers love it:

  • 💧 Made from rape-seed (won’t dry or corrode your blades)

  • ⚙️ Fine mist action gets between blade teeth for even coverage

  • ❄️ Keeps blades cool, even during long grooms

  • ✂️ Prolongs blade life and maintains cutting performance


🧠 Pro Tip: Spray while the clipper is running to evenly coat the blades. No need to wipe off.



So, How Do You Clean Clippers ?


To ensure hygiene and safety for every clip and groom, follow this maintenance plan:

Clean

  • Use a dedicated blade wash or blade disinfectant spray like Clipit Ice Care to break down grease, grime, and hair debris. This powerful 400ml aerosol spray is designed to clean, sterilise, and cool clipper blades, scissors, and other grooming tools — all without the need for bulky or expensive sterilising equipment.


    How it works:

    The advanced disinfectant formula gets to work immediately, breaking down bacteria, hair debris, and residue that can cause cross-contamination between clips. Simply spray directly onto your tools between grooms or during blade changes to maintain hygienic, salon-grade standards throughout your day.


Best Practice for Sterilising Clipper Blades

Between each clip:

  1. Brush away loose hair

  2. Clean blades using a disinfectant spray or wash

  3. Dry thoroughly

  4. Apply Clipit Easy Oil Spray to lubricate


At the end of each day:

  • Deep clean all tools, including brushes and combs

  • Wipe down surfaces with a safe disinfectant

  • Store tools in a clean, dry container to prevent contamination




Why It’s So Important

Regular cleaning and sterilising:

  • Prevents the spread of bacteria, fungi, and skin infections

  • Extends the life of your tools

  • Keeps your grooms safe, professional, and high quality


In Summary:

  • Clipper oil doesn’t clean—it lubricates.

  • Always clean first, then oil.

  • Use Clipit Easy Oil Spray to protect and prolong your blade life.

  • Combine it with proper sterilising practices to keep your kit and your clients safe.


🛒 Ready to take better care of your blades?

Get your Clipit Products today and level up your grooming routine



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