Maintaining clean clippers is essential for performance, blade longevity, and client safety. Regular cleaning helps prevent barber’s itch, skin irritation, and cross-contamination between clients. This guide provides a practical, step-by-step approach suitable for home use and professional shops alike, using common cleaning products and a reliable toolkit.
Readers will learn a simple routine that covers daily upkeep, deeper sanitation, and preventative practices to keep clippers in peak condition between services. The focus is on accessible methods and standard equipment used by professional barbers.
Quick Answer
Clean and oil the blades after each use to remove hair and oils, then sanitizer-wipe the exterior and store in a clean, dry case. For deeper cleaning, remove the blades, brush away debris, soak the blade assembly if permitted by the manufacturer, re-oil, and reassemble. Sanitize weekly or between clients in busy shops.
What You’ll Need
The following tools and supplies cover everyday cleaning and deeper sanitation. Use the listed product keywords where possible as you assemble your kit:
- Electric hair clipper cleaning brush with blade oil kit
- Hair clipper cleaning spray 70% isopropyl alcohol 8 oz
- Clipper blade cleaning kit with brush and oil
- Professional clipper sanitizer spray and cleaning brush set
- Barber clippers cleaning wipes and brush set
Before You Start
Before you begin, power down the clipper and unplug it from any power source. Check the user manual for blade removal instructions and recommended cleaning solvents, as some models have blades or housings that require specific handling. Prepare a well-ventilated workspace and lay down a disinfected mat or towel to catch loose hair and liquids. Safety cautions include avoiding immersion of non-waterproof devices, not using flammable cleaners around hot tools, and keeping solvents away from children and pets.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Clipper Equipment
- Power down and unplug the clipper, then remove any attachments. This ensures safety during blade removal and cleaning.
- Remove the blades according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place blades on a clean, disposable surface to prevent cross-contamination.
- Brush away hair and debris using the included cleaning brush. Focus on the blade gaps, the blade housing, and the inner regions where hair accumulates.
- Apply solvent with the hair clipper cleaning spray or isopropyl alcohol to a cloth or wipe. Wipe the exterior and contact points, avoiding the motor and electrical components unless the product allows for surface cleaning.
- Clean blade teeth with the brush from the kit. Some blades may be rinsed with water only if the manufacturer approves it; otherwise use a solvent wipe followed by a dry cloth.
- Oiling after cleaning is essential. Apply a thin, even coat of blade oil to the blade teeth while slowly moving the blade across a towel. This reduces friction and extends blade life.
- Reassemble and test once blades are dry. Run the clipper briefly to ensure smooth operation and listen for unusual noises. If anything sounds off, recheck blade seating.
- Exterior sanitation wipe the outer housing with a sanitizer spray or wipes. This helps maintain a hygienic surface for each client.
- Storage store clippers and components in a clean, dry case. Keep the blades separated to avoid dulling or contamination.
- Routine sanitation establish a weekly deep clean: remove, soak blades if permitted, and re-oil. This step keeps performance consistent for busy shops.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blades feel sticky or tug during use | Residual oil or hair in blade teeth | Re-clean thoroughly and re-oil | Clean after every client; wipe blades dry |
| Clippers overheat | Blocked air vents or excessive friction | Clean vents, remove debris, apply oil to blade | Regular maintenance schedule |
| Weird noises after cleaning | Improper blade seating or damaged blade | Inspect and reseat blades; replace if damaged | Handle blades gently; follow manual guidance |
| Discoloration on blade or housing | Exposure to harsh solvents | Switch to manufacturer-approved cleaners | Use approved products and test on small area |
Common Mistakes
- Using water or submerging non-waterproof units unless allowed by the manufacturer
- Over-oiling blades, which can attract dust and clog teeth
- Skipping exterior sanitation between clients
- Neglecting to reinstall blades correctly after cleaning
Attention to detail helps maintain blade sharpness and skin safety. Avoid shortcuts that compromise hygiene or tool performance.
Tips For Best Results
- Schedule a quick daily wipe-down after each client and a deeper weekly clean.
- Keep a dedicated set of tools for cleaning and sanitizing to avoid cross-contamination.
- Label blades and attachments to prevent mixing worn parts with new ones.
- Store cleaning products at room temperature and away from heat sources.
Call A Professional
Consider seeking a professional service if the clippers exhibit persistent electrical issues, unusual burning smells, or if the blade alignment seems compromised after cleaning. Stop using the device if you notice smoke, heat beyond normal levels, or any failure to start after routine maintenance.
FAQ
How often should I clean clipper blades?
Clean after each use and perform a deeper clean weekly or between high-volume clients in a shop setting.
Can I soak clipper blades in alcohol?
Only if the manufacturer approves soaking; otherwise spot-clean with approved solvents and dry thoroughly.
Which products are best for sanitation?
Use dedicated sanitizer sprays or wipes and brush sets designed for barber tools, following label directions.
Is it okay to oil blades before every client?
Yes, applying a thin oil helps maintain blade performance and reduces heat during use.
Buying Guide
When choosing clipper cleaning products and kits, consider several factors to fit a specific workspace and budget. Key points include size and portability, noise level, energy efficiency, control features, and placement options.
Size matters for how easily you can store kits in a workstation or backpack. Opt for compact cleaning brushes and spray bottles that fit in a single drawer without clutter. Noise level is a factor in busy barber shops where a quiet environment improves client experience; many cleaning sprays are designed to be low-noise and quick-drying.
Energy efficiency applies to powered cleaners or warmers used in deep-clean routines; choose low-energy options and avoid unnecessary heat exposure to blades. Controls should be simple and intuitive: spray bottles with clear labels, easy-to-use brushes, and blade oil that pours smoothly. Placement considerations include a clean, dry cabinet or cart with dedicated space for each kit to minimize cross-contamination.
For comparing products, think about compatibility with your clippers, blade types, and whether a kit includes both cleaning solutions and oils. Look for sets that provide a complete workflow: brush, blade oil, sanitizer, and wipes in one package. Balancing cost with durability and ease of use helps ensure consistent sanitation across clients.