A stylist is only as sharp as their tools. And your barber clippers can’t get the job done if they’re clogged with hair trimmings and product residue. If they’re feeling dull or slow, it’s time for a deep clean.

Well-maintained clippers ensure hygienic conditions and a flawless cut – a win-win for offering great service and building your business. 

In this guide, we'll break down how to clean barber clippers in a few easy steps. Your clients – and your clippers – will thank you.

Why Is It Important To Clean Barber Clippers? 

Washing your barber clippers is all about keeping clients safe and happy. Here's why regular maintenance is essential: 

Hygiene and Client Safety 

Cutting hair isn’t surgery. You don’t need to give your tools a scrub every time. But you should clean them between sessions, even if you just spray them with a cleaner. 

Deep cleans should still be on the table. If you don’t disinfect equipment every once in a while, it can harbor bacteria and cause health issues like skin infections and irritation. By cleansing your clippers regularly, you prevent the spread of germs, providing a sanitary experience for everyone who walks through your door. 

Better Results 

Clean clippers perform better than unwashed equipment. Proper maintenance removes build-up, which helps the blades cut more smoothly. These precise cuts lead to easier work and more satisfied clients, whether you specialize in men's grooming or love using clippers to trim long layers. 

Lasting Power 

Regular washing extends the lifespan of your tools, which is vital if you splurged on high-end equipment. By keeping them in top condition, you protect your investment and save money on replacements. Plus, well-maintained clippers are generally more reliable, ensuring your tools are always ready to get the job done. 

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How To Clean Hair Clippers 

Are your barber clippers making loud noises or cutting hair unevenly? These are signs they need a thorough wash. Here's how to do it in four simple steps: 

1. Disconnect the Power Source 

This is the most important step, so take note: Unplug your clippers before cleaning them. Removing the power source keeps you safe and prevents electrical mishaps. It's also important to note that washing any tool when it’s still connected to power can damage the machinery, costing you time and money to replace it. 

2. Remove the Clipper Guards

Remove the clipper guards so you can access and sanitize all parts properly. 

3. Brush Away Hair and Debris  

Now that you’re looking closely, you might be surprised just how much hair gets stuck in there. Take the time to brush away any hair and debris on the blades. This removes the build-up and gives the blades the space they need to perform at 100%.

4. Use an Antibacterial Clipper Cleaner 

Don’t use hand soap or the first shampoo you see. Pick up an antibacterial clipper cleaner, which is formulated specifically to wash and disinfect your blades without damaging them. Barbicide – a salon-specific cleaner for haircutting tools – works well, too. 

Leave the solution on your clipper blades based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. Following the instructions prevents damage and makes sure your blades are as clean as possible.

If you don’t have cleaner available, isopropyl alcohol or distilled white vinegar can do the trick. 

How To Quickly Clean Barber Clippers  

How do you disinfect clippers when you have back-to-back appointments? Here are some quick ways to clean your tools so every client gets the best experience possible:

• Spray with compressed air: Before you sanitize the clipper blades, blast away hair and debris with compressed air. This is fast and easy – perfect for quick clean-ups between clients. 
• Use clipper sprays: Disinfect and cool the blades with an all-in-one spray. Just turn the clippers on, spray the cleaner lightly, and let the clippers run for a few seconds. Gently wipe off excess moisture, and you should be good to go. 
• Dip the clippers in 70% isopropyl alcohol: Pour a small amount of alcohol into a shallow bowl or container. Turn the clippers on, let them run, and carefully dip the blades into the alcohol. Afterward, dry the sanitized blades with a clean cloth.

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4 Tips To Maintain Your Barber Clippers 

Proper maintenance is vital to keeping your clippers in tip-top shape. Here's how to do it: 

1. Regular Oiling 

Oil the tool regularly with a clipper-specific lubricant. This keeps the blades running smoothly and prevents them from wearing out, ensuring a sharp, clean cut every time you use them. 

Here’s how to oil clippers: 

• Remove the guards and any hair.
• Apply three drops of oil across the blade's teeth.
• Apply one drop of oil at the back of each rail.
• Turn the clippers on.
• Hold them sideways and let them run for 5–10 seconds.
• Use a clean cloth to remove excess clipper oil.

Make sure you follow the instructions on the oil bottle. If any steps are different from the above list, that’s okay – brands might have other formulations and specifications. 

2. Use Cooling Spray 

Clipper blades generate heat during use, which damages the machine over time. Apply a cooling spray between clients to beat the heat. Most sprays also lubricate and wash blades, reducing rust that can cause your clipper to jam and malfunction. 

3. Remove Material From the Blades Regularly  

Use a small brush to remove hair and debris from the clipper blades after every use. This limits buildup and keeps things running smoothly between cleanings. 

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4. Store the Clippers Properly 

Store your clipper tools in a dry, clean area. Many come in a hard plastic storage case, ideal for keeping them in one place and secure from dust and dampness. But if you don’t have a case, you can put your clippers anywhere free from moisture and dirt, which damage the blades and motor.

Give Your Salon or Barbershop a Boost With GlossGenius 

Maintaining your clippers helps you deliver exceptional services that keep clients booking again and again. To handle all the incoming business, use GlossGenius – we're here to support you every step of the way. 

Try GlossGenius free for 14 days!

GlossGenius's salon and barber software offers features like online booking, client management, and SMS and email marketing. Our all-in-one platform is also a one-stop shop for a stylish website and card readers for seamless payments – not to mention unique business name ideas that get people in the door. 

Sign up for a 14-day free trial with GlossGenius today so you can provide incredible haircuts without worrying about the rest.  

Frequently Asked Questions  

How Often Should I Clean My Clippers? 

Clean them after every use. Do some quick washes throughout the workday and a deep clean at the end of the workweek. This maintains hygiene between clients and helps your tools perform better. 

How Do I Prevent Clipper Blades From Rusting? 

To prevent rust, always dry your blades thoroughly. An antibacterial clipper spray with a built-in lubricant can also protect the blades from moisture. 

How Can I Tell If My Clippers Need Oiling? 

When barber clippers need oiling, they often make loud noises or feel hot to the touch. In some cases, they might also cut hair unevenly or snag hair. 

Can I Use Water To Clean My Clippers? 

Cleaning the blades with water can cause rust and damage. Instead, use clipper cleaners or isopropyl alcohol, and make sure you dry off the blades every time.