Your hairdressing tools are the lifeblood of your salon. From scissors and clippers to brushes and straighteners — every piece of equipment you own defines the precision, speed, and quality of your work.

Yet even the best tools lose performance over time if not properly maintained. Blades dull, dryers overheat, and buildup from products can shorten tool lifespan dramatically. Regular maintenance not only saves money on replacements but also ensures consistent, safe, and hygienic results for clients.

In this expert guide, B Salon Supplies walks you through everything you need to know about maintaining your hairdressing tools for longer life — with proven salon-grade techniques and pro-level insights designed for 2026 and beyond.

Why Hairdressing Tool Maintenance Matters

Keeping your tools in top shape is not just a matter of cost — it’s about performance, safety, and professionalism.

• Efficiency: Well-maintained tools save time during services and deliver precise results.

• Hygiene: Clean tools protect both stylists and clients from contamination.

• Longevity: Proper care can extend the lifespan of scissors, clippers, and irons by years.

• Reputation: Clients notice details — dull blades or noisy clippers can impact perceived quality.

Think of your tools as an investment — the better you care for them, the longer they’ll serve you and your clients.

1. Essential Tools That Require Regular Maintenance

Before diving into maintenance routines, identify which tools need special attention. Different materials and mechanisms require unique care routines.

Core Hairdressing Tools:

• Scissors and shears – Used daily for precision cuts.

• Clippers and trimmers – Require lubrication and cleaning after every use.

• Combs and brushes – Accumulate hair, dust, and product residue.

• Hair dryers – Filters and vents collect lint and hair debris.

• Straighteners and curlers – Plates need regular cleaning to prevent buildup.

• Razor tools and blades – Need sterilization after every client.

Keeping each type of tool clean and operational not only improves functionality but also prevents long-term damage from neglect.

2. Cleaning and Disinfecting Scissors & Shears

Why It’s Important

Scissors and shears are the most used and most neglected tools in any salon. Tiny hair fragments, oil residue, and moisture can corrode metal over time, leading to dullness and uneven cutting.

Daily Cleaning Routine

1. Wipe after every client: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove hair and moisture.

2. Clean with alcohol: Use isopropyl alcohol or a disinfectant designed for metal tools.

3. Dry thoroughly: Prevent rust and water spots by ensuring zero moisture remains.

Weekly Deep Clean

• Disassemble if possible: Carefully remove screws (not all models allow this).

• Soak in cleaning solution: Use warm water and mild soap for 5–10 minutes.

• Dry and oil: Apply a few drops of scissor oil at the pivot point to maintain smoothness.

Avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged soaking — they can strip protective coatings and weaken steel edges.

3. Maintaining Clippers & Trimmers

Clippers are workhorses, handling constant motion, friction, and heat. Without regular maintenance, motors wear out quickly and blades pull instead of glide.

Daily Maintenance Checklist

• Brush away hair: Use a small cleaning brush after every client.

• Disinfect blades: Spray a clipper disinfectant or wipe with alcohol solution.

• Oil regularly: Add 2–3 drops of clipper oil along the blade edge and run for 20 seconds.

• Check cords: Ensure power cables aren’t twisted or frayed.

Weekly & Monthly Tasks

• Blade alignment: Misaligned blades cause uneven cuts or skin irritation.

• Motor check: Listen for changes in sound — unusual noise may signal buildup or wear.

• Deep clean: Remove the blade set and clean between the teeth with a precision brush.

Pro Tip: Always store clippers upright to avoid blade contact with hard surfaces.

4. Caring for Brushes and Combs

Brushes and combs often collect product residue, dust, and oil — which can easily transfer back to the client’s hair. Proper cleaning extends their life and maintains hygiene standards.

Daily Routine

• Remove loose hair: After every use, clear bristles using a comb or cleaning rake.

• Spray disinfectant: Lightly mist with a salon-safe sanitizer.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Soak in warm soapy water: Add mild shampoo and soak for 10–15 minutes.

• Scrub gently: Use a toothbrush or cleaning brush to remove buildup between bristles.

• Rinse & air dry: Place brushes bristle-side down on a clean towel.

Avoid using boiling water — it can warp plastic handles and weaken bristle adhesive.

5. Maintaining Hair Dryers and Heat Tools

Heat tools endure intense conditions daily. Over time, lint, hair, and styling product residue accumulate in vents and on plates, causing overheating or power reduction.

Hair Dryer Maintenance

1. Unplug before cleaning.

2. Remove back filter cover: Use a small brush to clear lint.

3. Wipe exterior: With a damp cloth and mild cleaner.

4. Check cord connections: Ensure plugs and cords remain firm and undamaged.

Straighteners & Curlers

• Clean plates weekly: Use a cotton pad dipped in rubbing alcohol.

• Avoid water exposure: Liquids can short circuits.

• Store safely: Keep them in heat-resistant pouches once cooled.

Tip: Never wrap cords around the tool — it damages internal wiring and causes short circuits over time.

6. Storage & Organization Best Practices

Proper storage plays a major role in tool longevity. Even clean tools can rust, warp, or dull if stored incorrectly.

Smart Storage Habits

• Use tool organizers: Keep scissors, dryers, and clippers in dedicated pouches.

• Avoid moisture: Store in dry, ventilated drawers — humidity accelerates rust.

• Magnetic mats or cases: Prevent scratches and edge damage.

• Separate heat tools: Keep them away from chemical storage areas.

• Label drawers: Organize by tool type for easy access.

Pro Tip: Invest in heat-resistant tool holsters and anti-rust pouches — available at B Salon Supplies.

7. Sharpening Techniques and Schedules

Even top-tier shears and blades lose their sharpness after heavy use. Regular sharpening restores precision and prevents hair bending or pulling.

When to Sharpen

• Every 3–6 months for scissors and shears (depending on usage).

• Every 1–2 months for heavily used clipper blades.

How to Sharpen

• Use professional sharpening services: DIY sharpening often voids warranties.

• Inspect edges before and after: Sharp edges reflect light evenly.

• Apply oil post-sharpening: Reduces friction and prevents oxidation.

Tip: Keep a backup pair of scissors or clippers so you can send one set for sharpening without interrupting workflow.*

8. Regular Maintenance Schedule (Quick Reference)

Here’s a professional maintenance timetable for easy tracking:

Keeping a laminated copy of this chart in your back room ensures your team follows consistent maintenance habits.

9. Hygiene & Safety Compliance in Australian Salons

Under Australian state and territory regulations, salons must maintain strict hygiene standards. Cleaning and sterilizing tools not only improve performance but also help you stay compliant with Work Health and Safety (WHS) and public health guidelines.

Best Practices for Compliance

• Disinfect after each client.

• Maintain a visible sanitation station.

• Store sterilized tools separately from used ones.

• Log weekly cleaning in a hygiene checklist.

• Replace damaged or rusted tools immediately.

Clients notice clean tools — it’s one of the fastest ways to build trust and repeat business.

10. When to Replace Hairdressing Tools

Even with perfect maintenance, tools eventually reach the end of their lifespan. Recognizing when to replace them prevents inconsistent results and potential client discomfort.

Signs It’s Time to Replace

• Scissors snag or push hair despite sharpening.

• Clippers get hot quickly or make grinding noises.

• Heat tools take longer to reach temperature.

• Cords are cracked or frayed.

• Brushes lose bristles or handles loosen.

Pro Tip: Replace tools gradually — investing in one premium item at a time keeps your toolkit modern without heavy upfront costs.*

Partner with B Salon Supplies — For Professional-Grade Tools That Last

At B Salon Supplies, we provide hairdressers and salon owners with premium, durable tools that perform consistently and withstand daily use. Our curated selection includes:

• Professional scissors & shears from leading brands.

• Salon-grade clippers, dryers, and irons.

• Eco-friendly consumables and hygiene products.

• Replacement blades and parts for long-term tool care.

Whether you’re maintaining your current setup or upgrading to new essentials, our team helps you choose products built for longevity and performance.

✨ Shop smart. Maintain better. Create beautifully — only at BSalonSupplies.com.au.

Conclusion

Your hairdressing tools are more than equipment — they’re extensions of your craft. With regular cleaning, oiling, sharpening, and safe storage, you can extend their lifespan for years while maintaining salon-level precision.

By following these maintenance routines and sourcing quality supplies from B Salon Supplies, you ensure every service feels as fresh and flawless as your first.

Invest in care, and your tools will return the favor — with smoother cuts, faster styling, and happier clients.

FAQs

1. How often should I oil my hairdressing scissors?

Daily, after each use. It reduces friction and prevents rust.

2. What’s the best disinfectant for salon tools?

Use alcohol-based or Barbicide-certified products suitable for metal and plastic tools.

3. How do I prevent my clippers from overheating?

Clean blades regularly, oil after every client, and avoid running continuously for long periods.

4. Can I sharpen salon tools myself?

It’s safer to use professional sharpening services to maintain blade quality and warranty.

5. Where can I buy high-quality replacement tools in Australia?

Find professional hairdressing tools, oils, and sanitizers at BSalonSupplies.com.au.