How to Maintain Your Hair Shears for Long-Term Performance
How to Maintain Your Hair Shears for Long-Term Performance
Your hair shears are one of the most important investments in your styling toolkit. Proper maintenance ensures they perform at their best for years, offering precision, sharpness, and comfort. Regular care and attention will also extend the life of your shears, saving you money on replacements and sharpening. Here are essential maintenance tips for keeping your shears in top condition.
- Clean Your Shears After Each Use
One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your shears is to clean them after every use. Hair, product residue, and oils from your hands can build up on the blades and cause them to dull or rust over time.
- How to clean:
- Use a soft cloth or a microfiber towel to wipe the blades clean after each use.
- You can also use a small brush to remove hair buildup from the pivot point and around the blade.
- If necessary, dip the shears in water and gently wipe them down before drying thoroughly.
- Regularly Oil the Pivot Point
The pivot point is the joint where the two blades of the shear come together, and it’s essential for smooth, fluid movement. If neglected, it can become stiff, causing strain on your hand and damaging the shears.
- How to oil:
- Apply a small amount of shear oil to the pivot point every few uses to ensure smooth operation.
- Wipe off excess oil to avoid buildup that could affect the cutting performance.
- Store Your Shears Properly
Improper storage can lead to damage and dulling of your shears. Always store your shears in a safe, dry place, such as a shear case or a protective pouch. Avoid leaving them exposed to moisture or heat, as this can cause rust or warping.
- Storage tips:
- Keep shears in a soft pouch or case to avoid accidental damage.
- Never leave shears in damp areas such as a bathroom.
- Store them in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
- Avoid Cutting Through Hard Materials
Hair shears are designed specifically for cutting hair. Using them to cut through hard materials like paper, fabric, or plastic will dull the blades and cause long-term damage.
- Tip:
- Always use the appropriate tools for tasks like cutting tape, fabric, or packaging. This will prevent your shears from becoming damaged prematurely.
- Sharpen Regularly
Over time, even the sharpest shears will lose their edge. Regular sharpening ensures that your shears stay in top condition. However, improper sharpening can lead to damage, so it’s best to have them professionally sharpened.
- How often should you sharpen:
- For high-quality Japanese shears, like Michiko Hair Shears, sharpening every 6-12 months is ideal, depending on usage.
- Professional sharpening services are recommended to maintain the integrity of the blade and ensure the correct angle.
- Sharpening too frequently can reduce the lifespan of the blades, so be sure to do it only when necessary.
- Check for Loose Screws
Occasionally, the screws that hold the shears together can become loose due to repeated use. Loose screws can affect the performance of the shears, causing them to misalign or become less precise during cutting.
- How to check:
- Before every use, check that the screws are securely fastened.
- If you notice any loosening, tighten them carefully using the appropriate tools.
- Professional Servicing
Even with regular care, shears eventually need professional attention. A professional service will inspect the blades, adjust the tension, and provide a more thorough sharpening and cleaning.
- Tip:
- Choose a reputable shear sharpening service with experience in working with high-quality shears.
- Many Japanese shear brands, like Michiko Shears, offer dedicated sharpening services to ensure the blades retain their original performance.
Conclusion
Maintaining your hair shears ensures that they perform at their best, allowing you to deliver clean, precise cuts every time. By cleaning them regularly, storing them properly, and having them sharpened when needed, you can prolong the life of your shears and avoid costly replacements. Invest the time in proper maintenance, and your shears will serve you well for years to come.