Hair clippers are essential tools for barbers, hair stylists, and individuals who like to maintain their haircuts at home. However, the blades of hair clippers can become dull and ineffective over time, making it difficult to achieve a clean and precise cut. Fortunately, there are various ways to sharpen hair clipper blades and restore their sharpness.
Sharpening hair clipper blades is not as complicated as it may seem, and there are various methods and techniques you can use to achieve the desired result. Knowing how to sharpen clipper blades can save you time and money in the long run, as you won’t have to constantly replace dull blades or take them to a professional to sharpen.
In this article, we will explore two effective methods for sharpening clipper blades that you can easily do at home. By following these steps on how to sharpen clipper blades, you’ll be able to make your blades sharp again and achieve a clean and precise cut.
Method 1: Using a Sharpening Stone
It’s no secret that using a sharpening stone is one of the most popular ways to sharpen dull hair clipper blades. The very first and most important step is to remove the blades from the clipper and clean them carefully to remove any debris or hair clippings. If washing the blades is allowed by the manufacturer, go ahead and do so. Once cleaned, follow these steps to sharpen your clipper blades using a sharpening stone.
Step 1: Place the Sharpening Stone on a Flat Surface
First, place the sharpening stone on a stable and secure flat surface. This step is crucial to ensure security during the sharpening process. A wrong or unstable position could lead to uneven sharpening or damage to the blades. Just do it in the same way as you would do when sharpening a knife.
Step 2: Use Oil When Sharpening with a Stone
Add a few drops of oil to the surface of the sharpening stone to lubricate the blades. This might prevent any damage or friction during the sharpening process. Don’t ignore this step as it could prolong the blades’ life.
Step 3: Choose the Correct Angle When Sharpening Clipper Blades
When holding the blade, make sure it’s at the correct angle against the sharpening stone. This will depend on the type of hair clipper you have. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or do some research to determine the correct angle for your clipper.
Step 4: Start Sharpening the Blade
During manual sharpening, move the blade back and forth across the sharpening stone. Keep in mind the appropriate angle as mentioned above and apply consistent pressure.
Your strokes shouldn’t be too forceful or too light, to avoid damaging the blade or failing to sharpen it properly.
Step 5: Repeat the Process for the Other Side of the Blade
After sharpening one side of the blade, repeat the process on the other side to ensure that both sides are equally sharp.
Method 2: Using a Honing Stone
Another method for sharpening hair clipper blades is by using a honing stone. This method realigns the blade’s edge to make it sharper, rather than removing material from the blade. Here’s how to sharpen your hair clipper blades using a honing stone:
Step 1: Remove the Blades from the Clipper
First, unscrew the blades from the clipper and clean them thoroughly.
Step 2: Apply Oil to the Honing Stone
Before and after sharpening your blades, it’s also important to thoroughly wash them to remove any debris or buildup that can affect their performance.
Apply a few drops of oil to the honing stone to lubricate the blades and prevent any damage or friction during the sharpening process.
Step 3: Hold the Blade at the Correct Angle
Hold the blade at the correct angle against the honing stone. For most clipper blades, the correct angle is 30 degrees. You can measure the angle using a protractor or simply eyeball it.
Place the blade flat against the honing stone with the cutting edge facing up. Tilt the blade up slightly until you reach the correct angle. Hold the blade firmly with both hands to prevent slipping and maintain the correct angle throughout the sharpening process.
Take your time during the sharpening process to maintain the correct angle and prevent damage to the blade. Use oil after finishing all.
Alternative to metal hair clippers: Ceramic Blades
Ceramic blades are an excellent alternative to traditional metal hair clipper blades. They are made from a durable, heat-resistant ceramic material that provides a sharper, smoother, and longer-lasting cut. Unlike metal blades, ceramic blades do not rust or corrode, and they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, they generate less heat and friction, reducing the risk of overheating and damaging the hair or skin.
Ceramic blades also tend to stay sharper longer, which means less frequent sharpening or replacement. While they may be more expensive initially, ceramic blades can be a worthwhile investment for those who want a high-quality, long-lasting cutting experience. To learn more about how to sharpen ceramic knives read another article we’ve prepared for you.
Summary
In conclusion, maintaining sharp hair clipper blades is crucial for achieving the perfect haircut. With these simple methods and techniques, you can easily sharpen your clipper blades at home and restore their sharpness. Additionally, it’s important to regularly clean and oil your hair clipper blades to keep them in good condition for longer.