Top Techniques for Maintaining the Sharpness of Your Salon Shears


Your shears are one of the most important tools in your kit, and keeping them sharp is essential for delivering precise, clean cuts. Dull shears don’t just make your job harder—they can cause split ends, frayed edges, and unnecessary strain on your hands and wrists. To help you keep your shears in top shape between professional sharpenings, here are the best techniques for maintaining their sharpness.

1. Clean Your Shears Daily

After each use, wipe down your shears with a soft cloth to remove hair, moisture, and product buildup. Over time, styling products, hairspray, and natural oils can create residue that dulls the blades. Pro tip: Use a drop of rubbing alcohol to sanitize and remove any stubborn buildup.

2. Oil Your Shears Regularly

A few drops of shear oil at the pivot point can make a huge difference in performance. Oiling prevents friction and rust while keeping the movement smooth. Make it a habit to oil your shears at least once a week—or more if you use them frequently.

3. Check & Adjust the Tension

If your shears are too loose, they’ll bend the hair instead of cutting cleanly. If they’re too tight, they’ll cause unnecessary wear on the blades. To check your tension:
1️⃣ Hold your shears by one handle and lift the other blade to a 90-degree angle.
2️⃣ Let go—if the blade falls completely shut, the tension is too loose.
3️⃣ If the blade barely moves, the tension is too tight.
4️⃣ Adjust the tension screw until the blade closes about two-thirds of the way.

4. Use the Right Cutting Techniques

Avoid excessive force when cutting—shears should glide through the hair effortlessly. Also, never use your salon shears to cut anything other than hair! Paper, fabric, plastic, and even sectioning clips can dull the blades quickly.

5. Store Your Shears Properly

When not in use, keep your shears in a protective case or a designated drawer to prevent accidental drops or contact with other tools. Dropping your shears—even once—can create tiny nicks in the blades that affect performance.

6. Get Regular Professional Sharpening

Even with the best care, all shears eventually need professional sharpening. Thad’s DRWS provides expert sharpening services, ensuring your shears maintain a razor-sharp edge without unnecessary blade removal. If you’re in the Fox Valley area, Thad stops by salons and barbershops every week—so be ready when he’s in your area!

Stay Sharp with Thad’s DRWS!

Caring for your shears between sharpenings extends their lifespan and keeps your cuts precise. By following these maintenance tips and getting regular sharpening, you’ll ensure your shears stay in top shape for years to come.

Need a sharpening? Call or text Thad at (920) 284-6395 to see when he’ll be in your area!

#ShearCare #StaySharp #ThadsDRWS #SalonTools #ShearMaintenance

Thad's Don't Run With Scissors | Greenville, WI
(920) 284-6395

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