How to Clean Hair Clippers: A Complete Guide

Maintaining your hair clippers is essential if you want them to last long and perform efficiently. Regular cleaning prevents hair buildup, reduces wear on blades, and keeps your clippers hygienic. Whether you’re a professional barber or just trimming hair at home, following proper cleaning procedures ensures that your tools remain in top shape. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps and precautions on how to clean hair clipper devices effectively, helping you avoid any performance issues or health risks.

Why Is It Important to Clean Your Hair Clippers?

Preventing Skin Irritation and Infection
Clean clippers are essential to preventing skin irritation and infections. Hair clippers come into direct contact with the skin, and any leftover hair, oil, or dirt can harbor bacteria and fungi. These microbes can cause uncomfortable skin irritations or even more severe infections. Regular cleaning ensures that the tools you use remain sanitary, providing a safe grooming experience for each user.

Prolonging Blade Sharpness and Motor Life
Over time, hair and debris can accumulate in your clippers, affecting the sharpness of the blades. Dull blades pull at the hair, leading to uneven cuts and increased friction, which can overwork and wear out the motor. Keeping your clippers clean reduces the strain on these components, maintaining their efficiency and extending their lifespan. Moreover, well-maintained clippers require less frequent blade replacements, saving you time and money.

What Tools and Supplies Do You Need?

Essential Cleaning Supplies
To clean your hair clippers effectively, you’ll need a few basic supplies: a small brush (often provided with the clippers), clipper oil, blade wash or isopropyl alcohol, and a clean cloth. These items help to remove hair, sanitize metal parts, and keep the blades in optimal condition. Additionally, you may need a towel or mat to catch falling hair and debris.

Optional Tools for Deep Cleaning and Maintenance
For a more comprehensive cleaning session, consider using a blade screwdriver to disassemble parts for thorough cleaning, a can of compressed air for hard-to-reach areas, and a blade sharpener. These tools allow for meticulous care of your clippers, ensuring every component is thoroughly cleaned, lubricated, and maintained.

How to Clean Hair Clippers Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Unplug and Disassemble Your Clippers
Always start by unplugging the clippers to avoid any electric shock. Remove the blades and other detachable parts carefully, keeping track of all components to ensure easy reassembly.

Step 2 – Brush Away Loose Hair and Debris
Use the brush to sweep away loose hair from the blades and housing. Pay special attention to areas where hair tends to accumulate.

Step 3 – Clean Blades With Blade Wash or Alcohol
Dip the blades in blade wash or wipe them with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol. This will help to disinfect and remove any remaining dirt or oil.

Step 4 – Dry the Parts Completely
Ensure all parts, especially metal components, are thoroughly dried to prevent rust. Use a clean cloth and allow some time for air drying if necessary.

Step 5 – Oil the Blades Properly
Apply a few drops of clipper oil to the blades to reduce friction and keep them lubricated. This prevents overheating and ensures smooth operation.

Step 6 – Reassemble and Store the Clippers Safely
Carefully put the clippers back together, making sure all parts are securely in place. Store them in a dry, dust-free area to keep them in good condition until their next use.

How Often Should You Clean Your Hair Clippers?

Cleaning After Every Use vs. Deep Cleaning
Clean your clippers lightly after each use, brushing away hair and applying a quick disinfectant. Deep cleaning, including full disassembly and thorough washing, should be done once a month.

Maintenance Schedule for Professionals vs. Home Use
Professional barbers should clean and oil their clippers daily to handle frequent use. For home users, a less intensive schedule is acceptable, but ensure cleaning after each use and deep cleaning monthly.

Conclusion
Regularly maintaining your hair clippers ensures they stay sharp, clean, and efficient. By following these steps on how to clean hair clipper, you can keep them in top condition, ensuring each use is safe and effective. Properly cared-for clippers last longer and perform better, providing smoother cuts and a more enjoyable grooming experience.

FAQ

Can I rinse my hair clippers with water?
Avoid rinsing your hair clippers with water. Most clippers are not designed to be waterproof, and moisture can damage the electronic components and cause rust. Use brush, alcohol, and blade wash instead.

What kind of oil should I use for clipper maintenance?
Use specialized clipper oil, which is lightweight and designed for high-speed blade operation. Avoid heavy oils like motor or cooking oil, which can gum up the blades.

How do I know if my clippers need cleaning or replacing?
If your clippers are tugging hair, making unusual noises, or overheating, they need cleaning. If issues persist after thorough cleaning and oiling, it may be time to replace them.