Scissor Care

Well-maintained professional shears stay smoother, keep a clean cutting edge longer, and require less effort from your hand. Care does not need to be complicated: a few consistent habits are enough to protect the blades, pivot, and alignment.

Your end-of-day routine

1. Remove hair and visible residue from the blades and around the pivot.
2. Wipe the shears with a soft, clean, non-abrasive cloth.
3. Dry the blades completely before storing them.
4. Make sure opening and closing still feels smooth, without catching or unusual noise.

Clean without damaging the steel

Avoid abrasive pads, corrosive products, and any cleaning method that leaves moisture around the pivot. Never soak your shears. If your salon protocol requires disinfection, use a product that is compatible with steel, follow the product manufacturer’s instructions, and dry the instrument thoroughly afterward.

Styling products, sprays, and residue can build up near the pivot. Even a small amount can change how the shears feel in use, so regular cleaning is better than waiting until the mechanism becomes stiff.

Lubricate the pivot

A small drop of oil designed for scissors or shears at the pivot helps maintain smooth movement and reduce friction. After applying it, open and close the shears several times, then wipe away the excess with a clean cloth. Do this regularly, especially after a more thorough cleaning.

Keep the tension in check

Tension that is too loose can reduce cutting precision. Tension that is too tight increases the effort required and may accelerate wear. If the blades suddenly close too freely, require noticeably more force, or move differently than usual, the tension should be checked.

Make only small adjustments if you are familiar with your tension system. If you are unsure, let a professional adjust it rather than forcing the screw or pivot mechanism.

Cut only what the shears are designed to cut

Hairdressing shears are designed to cut hair. Avoid paper, cardboard, fabric, plastic, packaging, cords, and other materials that can dull or damage the edge. A single misuse can affect an otherwise properly sharpened blade.

Store them properly

• Store clean, dry shears in a protective case or holder.
• Do not leave them loose in a drawer, pouch, or bag with other tools.
• Protect the tips and blades from impacts.
• Never store them while they are still damp.

After a drop or impact

If your shears are dropped, do not automatically keep cutting as if nothing happened. Inspect the tips, blade alignment, and closing action. If you feel catching, hear an unusual sound, or notice a mark on the edge, have them checked before continuing. Working with misaligned blades can make the damage worse.

When should your shears be sharpened?

The right timing depends on your workload, steel, cutting technique, and daily care. Instead of relying on a rigid schedule, watch for these signs:

• you need more pressure to make a clean cut;
• hair is pushed, folded, or pulled instead of being cut cleanly;
• your cutting line becomes less precise;
• the tips begin to catch;
• the shears have been dropped or hit.

Do not wait until a pair is completely dull. Professional maintenance at the right time helps preserve the cutting feel and can prevent more extensive corrective work later.

Quick care routine

1. Wipe the blades.
2. Remove hair from around the pivot.
3. Dry completely.
4. Lubricate the pivot regularly.
5. Store in a protective case.
6. Have the shears checked as soon as you notice a change in cutting feel or alignment.

Need professional sharpening? Visit our sharpening service. You can select the number of pairs you need serviced and add the sharpening service directly to your cart.

To better understand size, handle design, and steel, visit our professional guides.