How to Clean an Electric Razor: A Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping your electric razor clean is important not only for hygiene and health (it may prevent and may prevent razor bumps and other skin conditions, like folliculitis), but also for getting the best shave.

Over time, hair clippings, skin oils, and debris build up in the razor’s blades, leading to potential skin irritation, bacterial growth, and a less-than-satisfactory shave. Fortunately, cleaning your electric razor is quick and easy with the right tools and techniques.

Wondering how to clean your electric razor’s blades? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the signs that it’s time to clean your shaver, the best cleaning methods (including natural solutions), and a step-by-step how-to for cleaning electric razors.

There are several telltale signs that it’s time to clean your razor. These include:

• A build-up of hair, gunk, or debris in the blades

• A pulling or tugging sensation as you shave

• Increased skin irritation

• Not getting a close shave

• Rust on or around the blades

Even if you don’t notice any specific signs, cleaning your razor regularly is still a good idea.

• A cleaning brush: This helps dislodge hair and debris. Typically, electric razors come with a small brush, but you can also use an old (clean) toothbrush or nailbrush.

• A cleaning solution: This can be as simple as water and soap, or you can use vinegar, alcohol, or a store-bought brand specifically for razors. If your razor is not waterproof, you’ll need cleaning spray.

• Blade lubricant: After cleaning, you’ll need to use blade lubricant to keep the blades sharp. It also prevents the razor from overheating. Many electric razors come with lubricant, but replacement options are also widely available.

• A small towel: You can let your razor air dry, but it’s best to do it on an absorbent surface.

• Start by turning off your razor and unplugging it if it is connected to a power source. Then, follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove the shaving head or blade assembly.

• If you have a foil shaver, pull off the cover. If you have a rotary shaver (the kind with multiple circular shaver heads), open the cover.

• Use the included brush or a small, soft-bristled brush to remove loose hair and debris.

• If you have a rotary shaver, there is usually a way to pop out each head for a deeper clean. You don’t have to do that every time, but it’s a good idea occasionally.

• If your razor is waterproof, rinse the blades and shaving head under warm running water to wash away any residue. You can also add a bit of gentle liquid soap.

• For a deeper clean, rinse the blades with a vinegar solution, which helps de-grease them (we’ll cover how to make this solution and others below).

• Add a few drops of oil or lubricant to the cutting block to ensure the razor runs smoothly. Turn the razor on for a few seconds to spread the oil around, then turn it off and use a paper towel to rub off any excess.

• Let all parts air-dry entirely before reassembling the razor to prevent rust or water damage.

Consider soaking your foil and blades in a natural cleaning solution for a deeper clean.

One popular option is a solution made with vinegar, baking soda, and water. Vinegar is a powerful degreaser and a natural disinfectant. To clean with this method, follow these steps:

• Soak your razor in a 1:1 mixture of warm water and vinegar for about 20 minutes.

• Add a small amount of baking soda so that the mixture begins to fizz.

• Leave the head in the mixture for about an hour.

Most trimmers and safety razors can also be cleaned using this method.

You can also clean an electric razor using a clean cloth sprayed with a small amount of rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or even hand sanitizer spray.

How Often Should I Clean My Electric Razor?

To keep your razor in the best shape, give it a quick clean (rinse and allow it to air dry) every time you shave so it’s always ready for your next shave. Opt for a deeper clean once a week.

How Do I Clean An Electric Razor Without Water?

Some electric razors aren’t waterproof (most are, however). If your razor is not waterproof, don’t submerge it. Instead, use a spray cleaner, which disinfects and lubricates the blades

When Should I Change the Blade On My Electric Shaver?

Regular cleaning and care allow you to go a long time without changing an electric razor blade. This may surprise people who are used to a manual razor, which needs a new blade every few shaves. Generally, you should change your electric razor blade every 12 to 18 months or every six to 12 months if you have very coarse or thick hair (or if you’ve been using your razor to shave your head).

You should also replace it if you notice damage to the screen or foil, which is the thin, perforated metal piece that covers the cutting blades. The exact recommendation varies by brand, but you should be able to learn more in your user manual.

If your razor is very old, it may be time for a new one. Research has shown that newer electric razors can improve “shaving efficiency, closeness, removal of difficult hairs, and skin comfort.”

Do I Need a Self-Cleaning Station For My Electric Razor?

Some razors come with a self-cleaning station, a gadget that charges, sanitizes, and lubricates your razor. These stations can be handy, but they’re often expensive (and take up valuable vanity space). You can certainly clean your electric razor without a self-cleaning station, and even if you have one, manual cleaning may still be necessary from time to time.

Here’s the TL;DR on cleaning an electric razor.

• To maintain performance and hygiene, clean your electric razor after each use with a quick rinse and perform a deeper clean weekly.

• If you feel tugging, notice irritation or poor shave quality, or see grime or rust on your razor, it needs to be cleaned before you use it again.

• A small bristle brush, soap and water (or a specialized cleaner), and blade lubricant help keep your razor functioning at its best and, most importantly, keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

For more shaving, facial hair, and beard care tips, check out our guide to aftershave and bald head care.