Article: How to Properly Store and Protect Your Hair Shears
How to Properly Store and Protect Your Hair Shears
Want your hair shears to last 12–15 years instead of just 4–5? Proper care is the key. Hair shears are a big investment, often costing $200–$800, so maintaining them can save you money and improve your cutting performance. Here's a quick guide to keeping your shears in top condition:
- Clean Daily: Wipe blades with alcohol and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
- Disinfect Safely: Use a shear-specific disinfectant to maintain hygiene.
- Oil Regularly: Apply 1–2 drops of oil weekly to the pivot point for smooth operation.
- Store Properly: Use protective cases with separate slots to avoid scratches and damage.
- Sharpen Professionally: Schedule sharpening every 6–12 months based on use.
- Check Tension Weekly: Adjust blade tension for consistent, precise cuts.
Quick Tip: Avoid humid areas, open containers, or rubber bands that can damage your shears. Follow these steps to extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance.
Scissor Maintenance - How to Clean, Oil and Tension Barber & Hairdressing Shears
Hair Shear Basics
Professional hair shears are crafted for specific cutting techniques. Understanding their types is key to using and maintaining them effectively.
Common Shear Types
Hair shears are generally divided into two main types: cutting shears and thinning shears, with additional variations like texturizing and chunking shears. Cutting shears have straight blades and come in different lengths. Longer blades (6 to 7.5 inches) work best for over-the-comb techniques, while shorter blades (4 to 5.5 inches) are great for detailed and precision cuts.
Convex-edge blades are particularly popular due to their precision and versatility. To keep these shears performing well, regular cleaning and proper storage are essential.
| Shear Type | Primary Use | Special Care Needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting (Convex) | General cutting | Daily oiling and storage in protective cases |
| Thinning | Reducing hair thickness | Clean teeth regularly and check tension |
| Texturizing | Adding texture and blend | Clean thoroughly between the teeth |
| Chunking | Removing larger sections | Clean the fewer teeth regularly |
Handle designs also play a role in comfort and control. For instance, swivel handles with rotating thumb rings and offset handles can improve ergonomics and reduce strain for professionals. Proper care tailored to each type ensures they last longer and perform at their best.
Effects of Poor Maintenance
Neglecting hair shear maintenance can lead to several problems, even with high-quality tools. Common issues include:
- Blade Problems: Dull or misaligned edges that result in uneven cuts.
- Tension Issues: Poor tension can cause uneven cutting and damage to the shears.
- Corrosion: Residue buildup increases the risk of rust and corrosion.
- Structural Damage: Misaligned teeth and other damage can compromise performance.
To avoid these problems, professionals should schedule maintenance every 6–12 months. Cleaning between the teeth of thinning and texturizing shears is especially important to maintain their functionality. Proper storage, such as using protective cases, also helps protect your investment and ensures your tools stay in top condition.
Daily Care Steps
Cleaning After Each Use
After every use, clean your shears to remove hair and product residue. Start by wiping the blades with a clean chamois cloth. For any trapped hair around the pivot point, use a toothpick to gently clear it away.
Here’s how to clean the blades:
- Apply rubbing alcohol or ethanol to the blades.
- Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes.
- Wipe the blades thoroughly with a clean cloth.
- Make sure the shears are completely dry to avoid rust.
Avoid soaking your shears in cleaning solutions or using water and dish soap, as these can leave residue and potentially damage the blades. Proper daily cleaning ensures your shears stay in top condition. Once cleaned, move on to disinfecting them.
Safe Disinfection Methods
Disinfecting your shears between clients is crucial for maintaining hygiene and avoiding cross-contamination. Use a liquid disinfectant designed specifically for hair shears, and always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. After disinfecting, wipe the shears clean and let them dry completely to protect the metal and prevent any damage.
Oil Application Guide
Once your shears are disinfected and dried, apply oil to the pivot point to keep them operating smoothly. Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining their performance. According to Scissor Mall:
"At least once a week, you should OIL your scissors at the pivot point. Clipper blade oil is fine for this."
Add 1-2 drops of oil to the pivot point, then open and close the shears several times to distribute it evenly. Wipe away any excess oil to prevent buildup. If your shears see heavy use, consider oiling them twice a week for optimal care.
Storage Methods
Daily cleaning and oiling are essential for maintaining your shears, but proper storage plays a big role in keeping them in top condition for years.
Choosing Storage Cases
A good storage case can protect your hair shears from damage. KAMISORI offers cases designed specifically for stylists, featuring soft interiors and separate compartments to keep blades from touching.
Here's a quick comparison of popular storage options:
| Case Type | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Compact 10-Piece Case | Basic protection, multiple compartments | $75.00 |
| Luxury 10-Piece Case | Italian leather, durable design | $150.00 |
| Émile Shear Purse | Premium Italian leather, sleek finish | $250.00 |
| Nabukku Shear Case | Individual slots, added protection | $250.00 |
When picking a case, focus on features like moisture resistance, soft interiors, and separate slots for each shear. These details help prevent dulling and scratches. Once you have a case, organize your workspace for easy and safe access to your tools.
Workspace Storage Setup
Your workstation setup also impacts the safety of your shears. Consider using a scissor mat or mounted holster to keep your tools secure and within reach.
Here’s what to include in your setup:
- A cushioned salon mat for comfort and safety
- A mounted holster with individual slots for each shear
- A clean, dry storage area away from water and other hazards
Storage Conditions to Avoid
To keep your shears in top shape, avoid storing them in conditions that can cause damage. Keep them away from:
- Humid areas that can lead to rust
- Situations where blades touch or are bound with rubber bands
- Open containers that expose them to dust and debris
Always store dry shears in a temperature-controlled drawer or cabinet with partitions. Keep them away from cleaning solutions and water to avoid corrosion or other issues. Proper storage ensures your tools are ready to perform when you need them.
Professional Maintenance
Even with consistent daily care, your shears need occasional professional attention to maintain their precision and performance.
Sharpening Schedule
Professional sharpening is essential to keep your shears performing at their best. High-quality shears should be sharpened every 6–12 months, depending on how often they're used. Shears made from premium Japanese steel tend to hold their edge longer compared to lower-cost alternatives.
Recommended Sharpening Schedule:
| Shear Type | Sharpening Frequency |
|---|---|
| Premium Japanese Steel | Every 9–12 months |
| Mid-Range Steel | Every 6–8 months |
| Basic Steel | Every 3–5 months |
"Every 6-12 months at minimum. Again, pending how often you are using your shears but believe it or not the more you maintain and keep your scissors sharp actually extends the life of the blades therefor keeping the longevity of your shears." - Scissor Tech USA
Tension Settings
Proper tension is just as important as sharp blades for clean, precise cuts. Here’s how to check and adjust the tension on your shears:
- Hold the shears with the tips pointing upward.
- Open one blade to about a 60° angle.
- Release the top handle and check for a ¼-inch gap where the blades meet.
Adjust the tension dial in small increments - one click at a time. Never force the adjuster, as doing so could cause permanent damage. If you notice grinding noises or resistance while cutting, it’s time to fine-tune the tension. Regularly checking and adjusting tension helps maintain cutting performance over time.
When to Replace Shears
Even with the best care, shears eventually need to be replaced. Watch for these signs:
- Blades that no longer hold their edge after professional sharpening.
- Deep chips or bent blades that can’t be repaired.
- Tension screws that fail to keep the blades aligned.
- A "crunchy" feel or hair pulling during cuts.
With proper care, premium Japanese steel shears can last over 5 years. However, using damaged shears can lead to poor-quality cuts and shorten the lifespan of your tools. Always replace them when necessary to ensure consistent performance.
Protecting Your Tools
Taking care of your tools goes beyond daily cleaning and storage. It also involves insurance, proper handling, and staying on top of warranty details.
Tool Insurance
Insuring your shears is a smart way to safeguard your investment. There are insurance options tailored specifically for styling tools, which can help cover repair or replacement costs. You can either add these policies to your existing business insurance or purchase them separately. Coverage typically applies whether your tools are in your workspace, on the go, or stored in your vehicle.
Popular Coverage Options:
| Provider | Cost/Term | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| NEXT Insurance Basic | $12.50/month | Covers theft, loss, and damage |
| NEXT Insurance Pro | $24.20/month | Includes mechanical failures in addition to basic coverage |
| NEXT Insurance Pro Plus | $45.00/month | Premium plan with extra benefits |
| Senshi Shears Insurance | $50 (3-year plan) | Covers mechanical components and includes free sharpening |
Handling Guidelines
Proper handling is crucial to keep your shears performing well and prevent damage.
When Using Shears:
- Keep them closed and stored securely when not in use.
- Use them exclusively for cutting hair.
- Hold them with a firm but gentle grip.
- Avoid forcing cuts through tough or resistant materials.
After Use:
- Clean and dry them thoroughly.
- Store them in protective cases or designated holders.
- Keep them separate from other tools to prevent nicks or scratches.
Documenting these practices can also help with warranty claims, as explained below.
Warranty Management
To ensure your warranty remains valid, keep these records organized:
- Original purchase receipts
- Serial numbers and purchase dates
- Records of professional maintenance
- Warranty registration confirmations
For example, Kashi Shears offers a lifetime warranty for material defects, requiring only $6.95 for shipping and handling on claims. Similarly, Saki Shears provides a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing and material issues. However, be cautious - using unauthorized repair services or attempting DIY fixes can void your warranty. Always rely on manufacturer-approved providers to maintain your coverage.
Conclusion
Taking care of your hair shears is key to maintaining their quality and saving money in the long run by keeping them sharp and functional. Neglecting this can result in issues like hand fatigue and even chronic pain.
"Caring for your shears is a small investment of time that pays off in better performance and a longer lifespan".
A consistent maintenance routine not only keeps your shears in top shape but also helps you perform at your best. Here's how you can keep your shears in great condition:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Cleaning | After each use | Stops residue from building up |
| Deep Cleaning | Weekly/Monthly | Keeps performance sharp |
| Professional Sharpening | Every 6–12 months | Maintains cutting precision |
| Tension Adjustment | Weekly check | Avoids unnecessary wear |
