Knowing how a clipper blade (A5 style) works is part of the science behind efficient and effective clipping. Not knowing how a clipper blade should cut will cost you time and money. Whether you're a professional groomer, barber, or pet owner, taking care of your clipper blades can extend their life and enhance their performance. Here are 5 useful tips to keep your clipper blades in top working condition:
Tip 1. To Keep Your Clipper Blades Working
Depending on the brand of clipper you are using, will depict the speed of the clipper blade. Once you start clipping, the hair is guided into the blade with the sole plate which acts as an attachment comb. At the point where the top cutting teeth meet the sole plate, this is point where the hair is cut. The hair then travels out of the blade between the front teeth and the back rail of the sole plate.
Tip 2. The blade is not sharpened correctly
Clipper blades do not have flat surfaces when you look at them, the teeth are slightly angled differently to the back rail to enable the teeth to cut along the front. If correct, accurate sharpening is not undertaken by a professional engineer, you will experience dragging and snagging within the coat.
Tip 3. The blade tension is too tight
If the top cutter on the clipper blade won't move, then the tension could be too tight. How to check for correct blade tension is by moving the top cutter with your thumb. If the cutter does not budge or it is very difficult to move, then the tension is too tight. If however the top cutter moves very freely, then the blade tension spring is under tension and can cause the same symptom as over tension.
Tip 4. Rattling, noisy blades
Over a period of time the blade lever that drives the clipper blade, stretches the ears of the blade that can cause rattling. The ears are the two pieces of metal that protrudes upwards and are the locating points when attached to the clipper. Take a pair of pliers and gently pinch the ears together to stop rattling.
Tip 5. Poor clipper blade maintenance
Not finding time to look after your equipment can cost you more in servicing and sharpening long term. Cleaning and oiling your blades daily will save you pounds in replacements and help you run a more efficient business.
Effective blade cleaning should be done every time you finish a dog or cat to safeguard against cross contamination. Use Clipit Ice Care spray for quick effective sterilisation. For a deep clean to remove blade plaque that builds up between the teeth you should soak for 10 mins in Blade Wash.
To keep your blades cool and smooth running, you need OIL! The easiest and most effective product on the market is Clipt Easi-Oil Spray. It has quick cooling properties and a micro fine oil that will not leave an oily residue within the pet’s coat.
Conclusion
Keeping your clipper blades in excellent working condition requires regular maintenance, but the effort is well worth it. Clean them regularly, oil them properly, store them correctly, sharpen them as needed, and use the right blades for the job.
By following these tips, you'll ensure that your clipper blades remain sharp, efficient, and ready for use whenever you need them.
Taking the time to care for your tools not only extends their lifespan but also ensures a smoother, more enjoyable grooming experience, whether for yourself, your clients, or your pets. Happy clipping!
For further advice on clipper blades, maintenance and bio security, purchase and download the Clipit Ebook. With nearly four decades of experience in this dynamic industry, Paula has dedicated her career to fostering positive change and sharing knowledge that empowers grooming professionals. Today, Paula is thrilled to introduce the "Clipit Ebook:
How to Care for Your Clippers, Blades, and Scissors" – your ultimate guide to mastering the art of tool maintenance and debunking longstanding myths.
We hope you find this guide informative and helpful in your grooming endeavours. Let's work together to raise the standards of the grooming industry, one tool at a time.