One of the best things about shaving with a safety razor is the savings. Double-edged safety razor blades are very inexpensive and are very quick and easy to change. Personally, I opt to change my blades every shave, but I have heard from others that they use a single blade three or more times before changing. I have also experimented with flipping a used blade over to extend its life. While it does extend the life, I don’t recommend doing this as there is no substitute for using a fresh new blade. So really, how often should you change your safety razor blade?
Safety razor blades should be changed one to two times per week at least, depending on how often you shave. The blades are relatively inexpensive, completely disposable, and can be changed in less than a minute. Safety razor blade banks are a great option to store used blades. Most blade banks have a large capacity, meaning one can last you a long while. Having a fresh clean blade can not only make your shave better but can also prevent irritation and cuts that may lead to scarring and infection.
Continue reading on as we dive into changing safety razor blades, how long they last, and even the risks of using old safety razor blades!
What is a safety razor blade?
Safety razor blades are shaving blades that are designed with softer materials in order to reduce the risk of irritation on the skin. They are usually made from disposable metal alloys and can be found at any store that sells other types of razor blades. The most common type of safety razor blade is the double edge, not to be confused with a straight razor. Double edge blades have two blades and are rectangular in shape. The blades are inserted into the top of your safety razor and locked down by a closure mechanism. These types of blades continue to be popular because they offer an incredibly close shave and are very inexpensive. As a bonus, safety razors and their blades are eco-friendly razors as they usually contain only metal.
How to Change your Safety Razor Blades?
To change your safety razor blades, you will need these items:
- Safety razor handle
- New blade
- Water and a cleaning agent
- Towel
The safety razor blade is a thin, double-edged blade that attaches to the shaft of a razor. In order to remove the blade, begin by loosening the head of your double-edge razor by twisting the bottom of the handle or unscrewing the head from the handle. Next, carefully remove the razor from the top of the safety razor being careful not to touch the sharp edges. Dispose of the used blade in the proper sharps container or another hard tamper-proof container such as a blade bank.
Before inserting your new safety razor blade, be sure to thoroughly clean your safety razor handle and head using water and a cleaning agent. Next, insert the new safety razor blade into the top part of the handle. Twist the bottom of the handle to close and lock the blade into place or reassemble the cap and plate and then screw them back onto the handle.
How Long Do Safety Razor Blades Last?
Safety razor blades are favored by many as a way of shaving because they are less expensive, cause less irritation, and give a super close shave. But how long do safety razor blades last?
The life of a blade depends on many factors, such as how often it’s used, the pressure applied to the blade, and the quality of the blade. Blades that have been used for more than five shaves generally become less sharp and should be replaced soon. A dull or dirty blade could cause cuts, irritation, or even infection. Personally, I prefer to change my safety razor blades after every single shave due to them being very inexpensive. However, I have heard of some individuals who only use one blade side per shave, prolonging the life of the blade (as there are two blade edges).
Risks of Using an Old Safety Razor Blade
Razor blades are exposed to dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants. This is why it is highly recommended to change your blade often. Old safety razor blades are exposed to all kinds of bacteria if they are not changed or replaced often. Old razor blades also have a dull edge which can cause more nicks and cuts on the skin which will lead to increased infection rates.
Takeaway
Safety razors are a great way of getting a super smooth shave with less irritation. They also happen to be one of my favorite ways of shaving. Having sensitive skin makes me very selective with which products and razors I use for shaving every day. Properly cleaning your safety razor and changing blades regularly can keep you looking great while not breaking the bank like other shaving alternatives.
