A Complete Guide to Straight Razor Maintenance

The best straight razors can last a lifetime. 

But they require a great deal of maintenance to do so.

With a few tips and some love, here’s how to keep these bad boys in top-notch condition.

Before a Shave

1. Stropping 

Stropping goes beyond sharpening your razor. You sharpen your straight razor periodically using a whetstone.

You strop your razor before every single shave. This helps to:

1. Get rid of tiny microscopic chips.
2. Align the blade even when it’s off by a little bit.

To execute the perfect strop, lay your razor flat on the strop’s end and gently pull it towards you. At the end, roll over its spine to return the stroke. 

Check out our in-depth guide on how to strop a straight razor. 

2. Honing (Sharpening)

You also need to hone or sharpen your razor as part of its ongoing maintenance. Honing helps to:

• Restore a razor’s sharpness after continuous use.
• Remove micro-serrations that develop along the razor’s edge over time.
• Reduce the risk of nicks, cuts and irritation. It enhances the razor’s overall performance.

How often you should hone your razor will depend on the frequency of your shave and the coarseness of your hair.

As a general guide, hone your straight razor every few months to maintain optimal sharpness. You can opt to hone more frequently for peak performance.

3. Avoid Impact

Razors are small in size and can easily slip out of your hand. And even the slightest drop can damage its edge and cause fractures.

That’s why you need to handle your razor with care.

When handling the razor, make sure your grip is secure on both the blade and handle. Don’t hold it too tightly or apply excessive force. 

When placing it down, choose level and stable surfaces free from hazards and clutter.

Don’t place it near the edge of tables or countertops where it could be knocked off accidentally.

After a Shave

4. Cleaning a Straight Razor

Cleaning your straight razor after every use. This is hygienic and important for maintaining its performance.

To clean a straight razor:

• Rinse it using warm running water to remove oils, hair and cream. Use your fingers to gently scrub off debris from the blade and scales.
• Use a soft-bristled brush for stubborn debris and hard-to-reach areas. A toothbrush or dedicated shaving brush will do. Gently scrub the razor, careful not to apply too much pressure and risk damaging the blade.
• Pay special attention to the pivot area – the area where the blade meets the scales. It’s easy for debris to be trapped and build up in this area. Use a brush to remove these.
• Once you are done, pat the razor dry with a soft cloth. Dry the blade and pivot area more to prevent corrosion. 
• You may choose to apply a thin layer of mineral or razor oil for added protection against corrosion. They create a protective barrier against moisture.

The final step is to store your razor properly.

5. Storage

As tough as it is, your straight razor still needs a cozy spot to call home.

When storing your razor, you want to:

• Keep it in a clean, dry environment away from moisture and humidity. Don’t store it in your bathroom. Moisture and steam from showers will corrode it.
• Keep it in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will cause the handle to fade or warp over time.
• Place the razor with the blade facing downward to minimize accidents.
• Inspect your razor periodically for signs of wear, damage and corrosion.

Purchase a razor stand made of durable materials like acrylic or steel dedicated to storing your razor. 

These will provide an upright and secure position to keep the blade protected and easily accessible.

And when you are on the go, carry along a pouch or travel case. 

Time to Throw Away Your Straight Razor

There comes a time when you have to retire your razor. It’s old, it doesn’t function as it used to, and it’s more of a hazard than a use.

How do you know it’s time to call quits on your razor?

• The blade is dull and despite regular honing, it no longer provides a smooth and comfortable. Dull blades will tug, pull and irritate the skin during shaving. This indicates it’s time for a replacement.
• There are visible signs of damage such as cracks, chips and corrosion.
• The edges are uneven and there are noticeable wear patterns.
• There are signs of persistent corrosion or rust that can’t be removed with honing or cleaning.

Straight razors, even the best, are cheap and easily accessible. Get yourself a new one and have the best shaving experience.

Take Care of Your Razor!

The straight razor maintenance tips outlined in this guide are to ensure you have a smooth and comfortable shaving experience.

Remember to strop it before every shave, clean it after each use and know when it’s time to throw it away.

Happy shaving!