How to Extend the Life of Your Hair Shears
Professional hair shears are an investment. Proper care can make them last over 5 years, while neglect leads to dull blades, corrosion, misalignment, and costly replacements. Here’s how to maintain them:
- Daily Cleaning: Wipe with a cloth after each use, disinfect with rubbing alcohol, and dry thoroughly.
- Lubrication: Apply 1–2 drops of scissor oil daily or after 2–3 uses.
- Tension Adjustment: Test and adjust the screw to maintain smooth cutting.
- Sharpening: Use professional services every 6–12 months or whetstones for minor upkeep.
- Storage: Keep shears in protective cases and avoid moisture or heat exposure.
- Correct Usage: Hold properly, avoid horizontal thumb pressure, and use different shears for specific tasks.
Quick Tip: Store in cases with moisture-absorbing lining and always clean after use to prevent rust. These steps ensure your shears stay sharp, precise, and durable.
Basic Daily Care
Cleaning After Each Use
After every haircut, make it a habit to wipe your shears with a clean cloth, focusing on areas around the scissor screw. For stubborn buildup, use a toothpick to carefully remove debris without scratching the blades. This simple step keeps your tools in top shape and ensures they last longer.
"Use alcohol, sanitiser or rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball to eliminate styling help buildup - carefully avoid the blade edge to prevent cuts."
Once the debris is cleared, move on to disinfecting your tools safely.
Safe Disinfection Methods
Proper sterilization is a must for hairdressing tools, as outlined by U.S. safety standards. Here’s how to disinfect your shears effectively:
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the blades.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Wipe the blades thoroughly with a clean cloth.
- Avoid chlorine-based products - they can cause rust.
For more thorough cleaning, consider UV sterilization or steam cleaning. If using steam, make sure to dry the shears immediately to avoid rust. After disinfecting, move on to post-cleaning care to finish the process properly.
Post-Cleaning Care
Drying your shears thoroughly is a crucial step to avoid moisture damage and extend their lifespan.
"Even though it might seem unnecessary, one of the most critical parts of sanitising and cleaning for hair scissors is drying them cautiously. Use a lint-free towel to dry the blades by swiping the towel over it carefully. In case you don't dry the shears, bacteria and rust will build up and damage your hair scissors."
Add 1-2 drops of scissor oil where the blades meet near the screw to keep them cutting smoothly. Japan Scissors advises storing your shears in a protective case with a soft, porous lining to protect them from moisture and other environmental factors.
Important: If your shears get soaked, disassemble them, dry each component thoroughly, and reassemble before use to prevent internal rust.
Scissor Maintenance: How to Clean, Oil and Tension Hairdressing Shears
Oil and Tension Management
After thoroughly cleaning and drying your shears, applying oil and adjusting the tension are crucial steps to keep them working their best.
Best Oils for Hair Shears
Camellia oil is highly recommended for professional shears. It helps prevent rust, keeps the blades moving smoothly, and doesn't attract unnecessary debris. While machine or clipper oil can be used as substitutes, they provide less protection.
Avoid using the following:
- Vegetable oils (they can turn sticky)
- Petroleum-based products
- Heavy motor oils
- WD-40 (may not suit all scissor materials)
How to Apply Oil
How often you oil your shears depends on how frequently you use them. For daily use, oil them once a day. If you use them less often, apply oil every 2–3 uses.
Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the shears with rubbing alcohol.
- Tilt the blades to a 45° angle.
- Place 1–2 drops of oil at the pivot point.
- Open and close the blades several times to distribute the oil evenly.
- Let the oil absorb overnight.
This process keeps your shears lubricated and ready for smooth cutting.
Adjusting Blade Tension
Getting the tension just right is key to precise cutting and avoiding unnecessary wear. Loose tension can cause the shears to bend hair instead of cutting it, while overly tight tension can lead to hand fatigue and faster blade wear.
To test and adjust the tension:
- Open the shears to a 90° angle.
- Lift one blade and release it. Proper tension will let the blade fall to about 45°.
- Adjust the tension screw in small increments: turn clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen.
- Test by cutting a single hair. The blades should glide smoothly without pulling or catching.
Regularly check the tension, especially after cleaning or oiling sessions, to ensure your shears stay in top condition.
| Tension Issue | Signs | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Too Loose | Hair bends instead of cutting | Tighten the tension screw slightly (clockwise) |
| Too Tight | Hand fatigue; blades hard to move | Loosen the tension screw slightly (counterclockwise) |
| Just Right | Blade falls to 45° during drop test | Keep the current setting |
Blade Maintenance
Taking care of your shears goes beyond cleaning and oiling. Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for precise cuts and ensures your tools last longer.
Signs Your Blades Need Sharpening
Here’s how to tell if your blades are losing their edge:
- Hair is pushed away instead of being cut cleanly.
- Tips appear squared off rather than sharp.
- Hair snags or pulls during cutting.
- A noticeable "crunchy" sensation while cutting.
- You feel more strain in your hand during use.
Sharpening Options
Different methods can restore your blades, depending on their condition:
| Method | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Service | Severely dull blades | Can be expensive and slow |
| Whetstone | Routine maintenance | Requires practice and skill |
| Glass/Aluminum Foil | Minor touch-ups | Not very effective overall |
| Professional Tools | Regular upkeep | Requires upfront investment |
For high-end shears like Saki Shears (starting at $124.99), it’s best to opt for professional sharpening. This helps maintain the integrity of the Japanese steel and keeps the warranty intact. Once sharpened, proper care and storage are key to preserving their condition.
Blade Protection Methods
To keep your blades in top shape, follow these steps after every use:
- Store them in protective cases with individual compartments.
- Use your shears exclusively for cutting hair - no exceptions.
- Avoid dropping them on hard surfaces.
- Inspect daily for any signs of damage.
Routine checks and quick repairs will help your shears stay precise and extend their lifespan.
Correct Usage Techniques
Taking care of your shears goes beyond cleaning and oiling. Using them correctly can make a big difference in their lifespan and even help reduce strain on your hands.
Proper Cutting Position
Start with the right hand placement. Your ring finger should go in the top handle, and your thumb in the bottom handle, while the other fingers rest on the finger ring.
Here’s how to ensure better control and comfort:
- Use finger sizers if the rings don’t fit snugly.
- Keep your thumb knuckle bent.
- Insert only the tip of your thumb into the thumb hole.
- Keep the guide blade steady while cutting.
"Holding the shears properly not only improves your posture, but it also gives you better control, resulting in better details and happy clients." - Hattori Hanzo Shears
Common Usage Errors
Some common mistakes can wear down your shears faster or cause unnecessary hand fatigue. One of these is Horizontal Thumb Pressure (HTP), which happens when the thumb is pushed inward. This not only wears out the shears but also leads to discomfort.
| Error | Impact | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal Thumb Pressure | Premature wear and fatigue | Use Vertical Thumb Movement Only (VTMO) |
| Incorrect Tension | Reduces cutting precision | Check and adjust tension regularly |
| Poor Grip | Causes wrist strain | Use offset shears to reduce wrist bending |
"VTMO is using a relaxed thumb to move the scissor handle in an up and down (vertical) direction only; zero horizontal thumb pressure is applied." - LA Shear
Another tip: rotating your shear sets can help distribute wear more evenly.
Using Multiple Shear Sets
Switching between different shear sets isn’t just convenient - it helps protect your tools. Different shears are designed for specific tasks, so rotating them can prevent overuse of a single pair.
- Short Shears (4-5 inches): Perfect for precision and detailed cuts.
- Medium Shears (5-6 inches): Great for everyday cuts and perimeter work.
- Long Shears (6-7 inches): Best for blunt cuts and scissor-over-comb techniques.
"We always recommend having more than one pair of scissors... you don't use the same knife to cut all your food do you? So why would you use the same shear to cut all different hair!" - Scissor Tech USA
Storage and Travel Care
Taking care of your shears during storage and travel is key to ensuring they last longer and perform well.
Best Storage Methods
Always store your shears in a dedicated case to shield them from damage. Here’s a quick guide to some popular storage options:
| Storage Type | Ideal Use |
|---|---|
| Deluxe Shear Box | Protecting a single pair |
| 5-Piece Carrying Case | Organizing a small set |
| Émile Luxury Shear Purse | Perfect for stylists on-the-go |
| KAMISORI Acrylic Stand | Displaying in salons |
For extra safety, use individual sheaths to prevent the blades from touching each other. When traveling, apply the same level of care to safeguard your shears.
Travel Protection
Traveling with shears requires extra attention. A study by Leaf Scissors (January 2024) found that stylists using specialized cases experienced 15% fewer damage-related replacements. Here are some tips to protect your tools when you're on the move:
- Pack shears in checked luggage to meet airline rules.
- Use hard cases with padding for extra protection.
- Wrap each pair in soft cloth or bubble wrap.
- Store shears separately to avoid blade contact.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can impact your shears' condition. Follow these tips to keep them in top shape:
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Store shears in stable, low-humidity environments.
- Choose cases with moisture-absorbing linings to prevent rust and corrosion.
For bigger collections, invest in options like the 20-Piece Deluxe Presentation Briefcase or the 40-Piece version with shoulder straps. These cases not only protect your shears but also keep them organized.
Required Care Products
Taking care of your shears with the right products can make a big difference in their performance and lifespan. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your tools in top shape.
Professional Shears and Cases
Saki Shears provides high-quality cutting tools designed to last. Their shears, made from premium Japanese steel, come in various options to suit different needs:
| Price Range | Features | Maintenance Perks |
|---|---|---|
| $124.99+ | Adjustable tension system | Easy to fine-tune daily |
| $185.00+ | Premium 440C steel | Resists wear and tear |
| $285.00+ | Damascus steel construction | Built for long-term durability |
Each shear comes with a lifetime warranty and a protective case to keep them safe.
Maintenance Supplies
Proper care starts with having the right tools and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cleaning Tools
- Soft microfiber cloths for wiping blades
- A gentle bristle brush for cleaning hard-to-reach areas
- pH-neutral soap solution for safe cleaning
Lubrication and Adjustment
- Shear oil specifically made for hair tools
- A tension adjustment key for blade tightness
- Blade protection sheaths to prevent damage
For a complete maintenance routine, consider this checklist:
| Item | Purpose | How Often to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Cloth | Removes debris and moisture | After every use |
| Shear Oil | Keeps blades moving smoothly | Daily |
| Tension Key | Adjusts the blade tightness | Weekly |
| Protection Case | Keeps shears safe during storage | Always |
Consistently using these tools will help maintain your shears' performance and extend their lifespan.
Summary
To keep your shears in top condition and extend their lifespan, focus on consistent care and maintenance. A mix of daily upkeep, the right tools, and regular checks will protect your investment and ensure reliable performance.
Daily Care
Make cleaning, disinfecting, and lubricating a daily habit. The right tools can make this routine easier and more effective. Here’s a quick comparison of options:
| Care Level | Tools | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Kohana Series | Comes with essential care items |
| Advanced | Katana Series | Designed for better durability |
| Premium | Damascus Series | Offers a complete care solution |
Maintenance Checks
After every use, follow these important steps to keep your shears performing their best:
- Check blade tension daily.
- Clean and sanitize after every client.
- Store in a protective case.
- Apply lubrication weekly.
"Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper use will help maintain your haircutting shears so they last for many years", says James Adams, Hairdressing and Barbering Enthusiast.
