Dog Clipper Care : Here Are Some Things You Should And Should Not Do

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So you have just finished grooming your dog for the first time, and you clipped so much hair! How do you clean those clippers afterward and ensure that they are properly taken care of? Here are some things you should and should not do when it comes to clipper care.

Oiling Clippers

What should you use to oil clipper blades? Blade oil can be found in pet stores as well as online, the bottle will specify that it is blade or clipper oil. It is best to use products that are made for the clippers instead of trying a substitute, unless you get a specific recommendation from a professional groomer. There are four points to the clipper blade that should be oiled, but only three of them need to consistently be oiled once per day. If you wash your clippers in between use, then all four parts need to be re-oiled. How to oil clippers:

1. You will push on the clippers so that you have access to the first three points, this is the rear rail on either side of the spring.

2. One drop of oil will be applied to the rear rail on either side of the spring, as well as one drop in the groove in the top of the clippers.

3. A drop of oil can then be applied to the teeth, make sure each point where you applied oil is thoroughly rubbed in.

4. Right before you used your clippers, apply one small drop of oil to the middle of the clippers, make sure it doesn’t go anywhere near the teeth, turn on the clipper and allow the oil to spread in a thin sheet across the top of the clipper as this can help keep heat low and prevent some buildup.

Sharpening Clippers

How do you sharpen blades? One easy way to sharpen your blades is to use a whetstone. Whetstones can be bought in stores or online, and are relatively affordable. A combined whetstone of 4000 and 8000 grit is the best option. How to use a whetstone properly for sharpening clippers:

1. Spray water on the stone, if the water is absorbed immediately then your stone needs to soak in water for 10 minutes, if a thin sheen of water lays on the surface then your stone is ready to use.

2. Hold the blade at a 35 to 45 degree angle, you want to make sure you don’t move the blade too much and keep it within that range. You are simply trying to hone just the end/tip of the blade. Holding the blade between your ring finger and your thumb will work.

Blade Drive

Most clippers contain a part that is called the blade drive. This part can be one whole piece or multiple smaller pieces, which are labeled as a lever, gear, and a link. Those pieces are what makes the clippers function while cutting hair. The lever, gear, and link are typically made of plastic and wear down easily because of the metal portion of the clipper. If you use the clippers often, five or more pets per day, then the drive should be replaced approximately every four to six weeks. The latch that holds the blades onto the clipper itself, should be replaced approximately every four months.

Clipper Cord

If you have a clipper that is corded, make sure that the cord is wound up and tied together with a zip tie or small twist tie. Do not wrap the cord around the body of the clipper as this can cause damage. If the cord is showing signs of damage, stop use and replace. If you are unsure of how to replace the cord for your clipper, contact the manufacturer or company that made the clipper.

Spray Coolant

Spray coolants are made by many different clipper companies, all have the same use and general ingredients. The coolant is made to spray onto the clipper blades to cool them down, as they can become heated especially over lengthy, multiple uses. The directions on the product state that it should be used occasionally in a well ventilated area. It is important to keep in mind that the spray coolant does not substitute as blade care! Here is the proper, most efficient way to use the spray coolant:

1. Turn the clipper to OFF.

2. Point clippers down towards the floor.

3. Spray the back of the clippers with one short burst from the coolant bottle.

4. Turn the clipper over and proceed with oiling the teeth with proper clipper oil.

5. Turn the clipper back on and then continue with grooming. Make sure you avoid spraying the teeth of the clipper with the coolant, this can cause rust and buildup, therefore causing further damage to the blades.

Blade Wash

Blade wash is a good item to purchase for your clippers, as it is made specifically for cleaning clippers. There are many different blade washes that can be purchased in stores and online. Most require you to put blade wash in a shallow dish, just enough to cover the blades. Let the blades sit in the wash for a few seconds then remove, allow to drip off and make sure it does not drip into the body of the clipper. Wipe clean with a dry, soft towel or paper towel. Blade wash can also help with lubrication depending on what kind you purchase. Make sure you read the directions per the blade wash brand.

Cleaning Tips

If you are cleaning and maintaining your clippers yourself, make sure you are cautious and careful while proceeding with cleaning. Make sure that if you are washing the blades, that the wash does not run into the body of the clipper. Clippers should be facing down while you are cleaning them, not upright. There are some basic cleaning methods that can be used for maintaining your clippers. Some things that can help are using a hairdryer, small vacuum, or even a toothbrush to remove hair and debris buildup that can occur around the clippers.

Everyday Cord Clippers

As a pet owner, you spent plenty of time researching different types of clippers before you purchased the pair you have now. If you own everyday cord clippers, here are some tips you should do when it comes to maintaining them and taking care of them so they last a long time.

Blades should be maintained, after all, this is the most crucial part! Keeping the blades oiled, sharpened, and clean from debris, will ensure that your clippers will function properly for years to come.

Motor Clippers

Motor clippers from brands such as Oster and Turbo should have the air vents vacuumed and cleaned weekly. Clippers should be oiled or greased approximately every two months or every three to four weeks if they are a high speed clipper. If the clipper is producing a high-pitch squeal, then add a very small drop of clipper oil to the motor.

Cordless Clippers

Regularly vacuum or remove dry hair from the base of the clipper for weekly maintenance. Cotton swabs can be useful for cleaning the rechargeable batteries and charging station.

5-in-1 Trimmers

These trimmers do not require extensive maintenance. Make sure the blades are kept clean and oiled, and debris is removed.

What if I don’t have the time to clean my clippers?

If you feel like you have a hectic schedule or maybe you just feel like you never get around to cleaning your clippers, scheduling a day per week can help when it comes to cleaning your clippers and ensuring that they last for long amount of time. Pick one day per week, making it the same day each week helps. Set aside about an hour of time for that day so that you have dedicated time just for cleaning. Writing this down on a calendar or putting it into your phone can help remind you of when you need to clean your clippers. Proper maintenance and cleaning procedures are key to making your clipper investment worth it in the long run!