You bought your own kit so your tools stay clean. Here's how to keep them that way, and keep them cutting like new for years. It takes about two minutes after each haircut.
Step 1: Brush the blades
Hair clippings build up between the clipper and trimmer teeth fast. Before packing up, switch the clipper off and use the cleaning brush from your kit to sweep hair out of the blades and the guards. Brush away from the blade edge, not into it.
Tip: brush the guards too. Hair trapped inside a guard is the most common reason a kit starts to smell stale.
Step 2: Wipe everything down
Wipe the scissors, comb and razor with a clean, dry cloth to remove hair, oils and product. For a deeper clean, wash the comb in warm soapy water, rinse and let it dry completely.
Always dry tools fully before they go back in the case. Moisture is what dulls blades and causes rust over time.
Step 3: Look after the blades
A drop of clipper blade oil every few cuts keeps the blades running smoothly and quietly. Run the clipper for a few seconds after oiling, then wipe off the excess.
Never drop your scissors. A fall can knock the blades out of alignment, and they'll start to fold hair instead of cutting it.
Step 4: Pack it and charge it
Everything goes back into its place in the case. Top up the clipper and trimmer battery so they're ready for next time. Your barber will appreciate a fully charged kit.
The cape
Shake the cape out after each cut, and wash it whenever it needs it. Because it's only ever worn by you, it stays as clean as you keep it.
If a tool touches blood
A small nick can happen, even with a great barber. If any tool is exposed to blood, clean it thoroughly and disinfect it with a suitable product before using it again.
Quick checklist
- Brush the clipper, trimmer and guards
- Wipe the scissors, comb and razor
- Dry everything completely
- Oil the blades every few cuts
- Pack, charge, done
New to bringing your own kit? See what's inside MyBarberKit.
