How to Lubricate Hair Clippers

Dry blades pull and overheat. Oiling takes 30 seconds and makes a huge difference. This quick guide shows how to lubricate hair clippers, where to oil hair clippers, and how often, with clear steps you can repeat after every cut. We’ll also cover safe substitutes (and what to avoid) plus a simple cleaning routine.

Why lubrication matters

• Less friction: blades glide instead of scraping—no tugging.
• Cooler blades: comfort for you and your client.
• Cleaner lines: smoother cutting and fewer passes.
  
• Longer life: reduced wear on blade teeth and motor.
• Quick rule: oil every session—before you start and a drop again after cleaning.

What oil to use (and why)

Use a light, highly refined mineral oil (a clear, low-viscosity oil designed for clipper/precision tools). It spreads thinly, doesn’t gum up, and resists oxidation. (See general background on hair clippers and mineral oil for context.)

• Avoid heavy oils (sticky), vegetable oils (rancid), and aerosols that aren’t labeled for blades.

Good to know: Alcohol disinfects but does not lubricate. Clean first, then oil.

Where to oil hair clippers (the 5-drop map)

With the clipper OFF and blades clean & dry:

1. Left teeth edge: 1 drop along the moving teeth.
2. Center teeth: 1 drop across the middle.
3. Right teeth edge: 1 drop.
4. Left side rail (blade guide): 1 small drop.
5. Right side rail: 1 small drop.

Turn the clipper ON for 10–15 seconds to distribute. Wipe any excess oil that weeps forward onto the blade face.

Step-by-step: how to oil clippers (daily routine)

 

1. Brush off hair from the blade and guards.
2. Disinfect the blade surface (clipper spray or 70–90% isopropyl on a towel). Let dry.
3. Apply 3–5 drops as mapped above.
4. Run the clipper 10–15 seconds; open/close the taper lever to pull oil through.
5. Wipe excess with a soft cloth. That’s it.

How often should you oil?

• Home users: every haircut; add a drop mid-cut for dense hair.
• Pros: between clients and after disinfecting.
• Storage: add 1 drop, run briefly, then cap with a blade guard.

Cleaning + oiling routine (2-minute care)

1. Power off/unplug.
2. Brush blades & hinge areas.
3. Disinfect (clipper spray or isopropyl on cloth). Air-dry.
4. Oil (3–5 drops). Run briefly.
5. Check screws & guard fit.
6. Store dry with the guard on.

Can you lubricate trimmers the same way?

Yes—same oil, smaller drops. Hit the teeth (left/center/right) and a tiny drop on each side rail. Run 5–10 seconds and blot. For zero-gapped trimmers, use even less oil to avoid seep-through.

Safe substitutes vs. things to avoid

Okay in a pinch (better than nothing):

• Light mineral oil labeled for sewing machines or fine tools.
• Clipper-specific sprays that include lubricant (still add a small drop of oil after).

Avoid:

• WD-40: penetrant/solvent, not a lasting lubricant for skin-contact blades.
• Vaseline/grease: too thick—traps hair, overheats, dulls cut.
• Cooking oils (olive, coconut): oxidize, get sticky, go rancid.
• Motor oil: additives, smell, and viscosity aren’t skin-friendly.

Signs you need lubrication (or a deeper clean)

• Tugging/pulling on first pass.
• Pitch change (sounds dry) or more vibration.
• Blade warming faster than usual.
• Streaky lines or multiple passes needed.
  If oiling doesn’t fix it, deep-clean, align, and consider sharpening.

Troubleshooting after oiling

• Still pulling: add 1–2 drops, run 15 seconds, then check guard alignment and lever position.
• Oily residue on skin: you used too much—wipe the blade while running, then blot.
• Hot blade: clean, add a fresh drop on the rails; consider a short rest.
• Noisy chatter: tighten blade screws evenly; ensure the blade isn’t skewed.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How to lubricate a hair clipper?

Brush off hair, disinfect the blade surface, then add 3–5 small drops (left teeth, center, right teeth, and a tiny drop on each side rail). Turn the clipper on for 10–15 seconds to spread the oil, then wipe excess.

Do I need to oil my hair clippers?

Yes. Oil every session. It prevents pulling, keeps blades cooler, and extends blade life. If you cut several heads in a row, add a small top-up drop midway.

Can I use WD-40 to lubricate hair clippers?

No. WD-40 is primarily a solvent/penetrant, not a skin-safe blade lubricant. It flashes off quickly, can strip existing lubrication, and isn’t designed for ongoing contact with skin.

Can I use Vaseline to lubricate hair clippers?

Avoid it. Petrolatum is too thick; it traps hair, causes drag, and can overheat blades. Use a light mineral oil made for clippers or precision tools.

Should I oil clippers before or after use?

Both is best: a few drops before each cut for performance, and a drop after cleaning to protect the blade during storage.

Conclusion

Keep it simple: clean → oil → wipe. Thirty seconds of care saves time on every cut. If your tool is due for an upgrade, explore our easy-maintenance hair clippers designed for smooth, consistent results.