How to take care of your scissors

When properly cared for your scissors should give you many years of trouble-free service.

Here are some tips to help you.

Clean your scissors between every haircut.

When the blades of scissors are covered with hair, moisture and chemicals, corrosion can occur. Regular cleaning will help keep the blades sharp longer.

Use a soft cloth to wipe your scissors clean.

Oil your scissors at the end of each day.

A coating of oil will protect the scissor by helping to keep moisture out; it will also keep the scissors feeling smooth. Use only scissor oil for lubrication.

Put a drop of oil in the pivot area and smear some down the length of the inside of each blade.

Adjust your scissors

Adjust your scissors after lubricating them, or whenever they feel too tight or too loose. Proper scissor adjustment is often a matter of personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is that when the scissors are held open with one blade at right angles to the other in the shape of a cross, the handle that is dropped will fall from 3 o clock to 5 o clock.

To adjust the fall you need to tighten / loosen the adjusting screw as required. Be cautious not to over tighten or over loosen the adjuster as this could damage the shear. Adjust the screw one click (adjuster type) or 16th turn at a time until properly adjusted.

Storing your scissors

Store your scissors in a safe place when not in use. Secure and store them in a stand or a case where they stay safe and dry when not in use. Never toss your scissors into the drawer unprotected.

Sharpening

Sharpening will either extend their life...or shorten it! Most scissors require sharpening every three to six months. Always take your scissors to a reputable sharpener who is trained to work on haircutting scissors. An inexperienced sharpener or one without the right equipment could destroy your scissors.