Ways to Clean and Sharpen Your Hair Cutting Scissors at Home

Bladed tools are often made of stainless steel. There are knives, scissors and swords, often considered as bladed weapons and tools. These tools work smoothly for a period of time. However, a time comes when they lose their smoothness and sharpness. Knives are often sharpened using sharpening stones. However, this isn’t the method applied in case of scissors.

When it comes to hair cutting scissors, things are a little different. Hairdressers and barbers use scissors very often. Therefore, they require consistent maintenance and cleaning.  The cleaning and sharpening methods used for scissors are pretty different, as suggested by professional hairdressers.

 
There are many DIY methods suggested online, you can’t trust them all, You may end up causing damage to your scissor blades. Also, sharpening stones are not highly recommended though they can be useful. So, follow some expert tips mentioned below. We have come up with a few excellent and effective ways to clean and sharpen your scissors at home!

Cleaning Your Scissors

Let’s first focus on cleaning your scissors. Many professional hairdressers and barbers come up with different cleaning methods. At times, they suggest a simple method that is wiping it once with a piece of cloth. We all know that it is never enough! You must use a professional and proven-effective method to clean your scissors. Here is a proven-effective and simple way to clean your scissors:

●    Use a Paint Thinner

Avoid using dish soap and water because it may suffice for most gunk and may build up after it is repeated. Hence, better use a paint thinner and get to a well ventilated area. Use the paint thinner to remove the sticky residue that is expected. In addition, remove any stubborn dirt from the scissor blades.

●    Use a Sponge

The condition of the scissor also determines what to use to clean it. At times, there is glue dried on the blades. In this regard, you can use a sponge, specifically its rough side, along with a nail polish remover. In case the blades are rusty, you can wipe them using a cotton ball. However, the cotton ball must be soaked in white vinegar, ensure that!

●    Oil the Blades

Oiling the joint of the blades is quite crucial if you want to clean your scissor perfectly. Use a soft cloth and oil the screw area. Repeat this oiling process every month by the way. This will keep the blades working without friction and in a smooth manner. You can just use a few drops of oil but ensure to rub off all the excess oil so that it is completely removed when you use it again.

Sharpening Your Scissors

●    Sharpening Stone

The most obvious method of sharpening your scissor at home is by using a sharpening stone. Generally, if your scissor is not working properly and you want to avoid causing any damage, you would go to a professional. Yes, it is better but if you are at home, you can use a sharpening stone which is sometimes known as a whetstone. Wet the surface of stone with plain water or oil. Draw the blades of the scissors across the entire length of the stone from tip to base. Around 15 strokes are enough to sharpen your scissor.

●    Electric Rotary Tool

Another cool and effective method of sharpening your scissor at home is by using a rotary tool. This is an electric tool ideal for sharpening scissors. Clamp the scissor blade into the vise and the beveled edge must be facing upwards. Place a grinding stone into the rotary tool and tighten the nut. Now, set the grinding stone against the rotary tool and turn on the motor. It will give you a sharpened scissor after repeating the process a few times, based on your requirement.

●    Sewing Pin

A simple method is using a sewing pin to sharpen your scissors. Start cutting the pin using the scissor. For instance, squeeze the scissor closed and start sliding the pin out gently from the blades as the scissor is about to close. Repeat the process unless you get a sharpened scissor as you wanted. After you sharpen it, simply wipe the scissor blades with a piece of cloth to remove any metal bits. While you sharpen your scissor with a sewing pin, metal bits are often left on the blade and they can be dangerous and may damage the blades. So, don’t forget to remove them once your scissor blades are sharpened enough!  

So, these are some of the most effective and proven methods to sharpen your scissors. Be careful when applying these methods because your scissor blades are vulnerable to serious damage. Also, make sure to follow the tips carefully to clean and sharpen your scissors in a perfect and safe manner!