How to keep your electric hair clippers clean for a sharp cut every time

Clean hair clippers are essential to getting a good haircut every time you go to the barber or hairstylist. If your clippers are dirty, they won’t cut properly, resulting in jagged cuts and split ends that leave your hair looking unhealthy and thinning out over time. Cleaning your hair clippers regularly can extend their lifespan and save you money by not requiring you to buy new clippers as often. Here’s how to clean electric hair clippers at home.

Unplug the appliance

Always unplug the appliance before cleaning it. This is not only for your safety, but also to avoid damaging the clipper. Never submerge the appliance in water. To clean the outside, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.
To clean the inside, remove the blade and use a small brush or toothpick to remove any buildup. Be sure to reattach the blade correctly before using the clipper again. Cleaning should be done at least once a month or when necessary.

Remove the blade

Start by unplugging the hair clippers or hair trimmer. Next, remove the blade from the hair clippers. To do this, locate the screws that hold the blade in place and unscrew them. Once the screws are removed, carefully take off the blade. Be careful not to touch the sharp edges of the blade as you remove it.
Once the blade is removed, use a soft cloth to wipe away any hair or debris that is on it. You can also use a brush with soft bristles to lightly brush away any buildup on the blade. If there is still some residue on the blade, you can use a mild soap and water solution to remove it. Be sure to dry the blade completely before putting it back on the hair clippers.

Mix rubbing alcohol with warm water in a spray bottle

First, mix together rubbing alcohol and warm water in a spray bottle. Next, remove the blade from the clipper and rinse it off with the solution. Be sure to get in all the nooks and crannies. Once the blade is clean, put it back on the clipper and turn it on. With the clipper running, spray the solution onto the metal teeth of the blade. Finally, wipe off any excess solution with a towel and you're done!

Spray into ventilation slots

It's important to keep your electric hair clippers clean, otherwise you run the risk of infecting yourself or others with bacteria. The best way to clean them is to spray into the ventilation slots after each use. You can use a disinfectant like rubbing alcohol, or even just soap and water. Be sure to let the clippers dry completely before using them again.

Wait 15 minutes

Wash the detachable blades (and combs, if applicable) with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly. Use a small brush to remove any built-up hair from the blades. Next, disinfect the blades by submerging them in rubbing alcohol for at least 15 minutes. Finally, dry the blades completely before reattaching them to the clipper. Never use a blow dryer or dishwasher to do this—the heat will cause cracks and leaks that can make the clippers stop working. Make sure you follow these steps after each haircut!

Brush off debris (hair, oil, etc.)

Start by unplugging the clippers and removing any external attachments, like guards or combs. Use a small brush to remove any visible debris from the blades. To disinfect the blades, wipe them with a rubbing alcohol-soaked cotton ball. Be sure to avoid getting any moisture on the electrical components of the clipper. Once the blades are clean and dry, reattach any attachments and plug the clippers back in.

Rinse well

After each use, it's important to rinse your clippers well with water. Be sure to remove all of the hair from the blades and from around the motor. If you have hard water, you may want to rinse with vinegar as well to remove any mineral buildup.

Dry completely with paper towels

1. First, make sure that your hair clippers are unplugged and cool to the touch.
2. Next, remove any visible hair from the blades using a paper towel.
3. Once the blades are clear of hair, use a damp paper towel to wipe away any built-up oil or residue.
4. To disinfect the blades, use a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and run it along the length of the blade.

Reassemble and dry once more before use.

It's important to keep your electric hair clippers clean, not only for sanitary reasons, but also to ensure a sharp cut. Here's how:
1. First, take the clippers apart and remove any hair that's caught in them.
2. Next, rinse the blades and combs under warm water.
3. Then, use a brush or toothpick to remove any remaining hair or debris.