How to Clean your Razor and Razor Blades

Maintaining a clean razor is crucial since it can collect debris and bacteria, diminishing blade performance and shaving quality. Learn to clean razor and razor blades with Venus.

Copied to Clipboard!
Woman in the bathroom shaving her leg

When you use a razor, it can accumulate dead skin cells, hair, and bacteria which can reduce the effectiveness of the blade and make it more challenging to get a smooth shave. Regular cleaning of your razor and blades can help ensure that they remain hygienic, sharp, and safe to use.

Read on to learn how to maintain a clean razor:

Step by step guide on how to clean your razor

Deluxe Smooth Platinum razor

Using a dirty razor not only hinders your chances of achieving a closer shave but can also cause skin irritation, razor burn and bumps. To help ensure a better shave, here are some simple steps to clean razor blades properly.

Rinse before using your razor

Bath pipe with running water

When getting ready to shave, rinse your razor under warm water. It is important to activate lubrication while shaving as well as to make sure the blades are free of any residual cut hairs and shaving gel from a previous shave. While rinsing, look between the blades and behind the blade cartridge to ensure everything is clean before you shave.

Rinse your razor blades after each stroke

Women shaving her knee in the bathroom

While you shave, rinse your razor blade after each stroke. This helps keep your blades sharp and protects your skin from razor burn, bumps and irritation.

Rinse after using your razor

Bathtub with running water

Rinsing off your razor after you finish shaving is crucial because it can prolong the lifespan of your razor blades, keeping them cleaner and sharper for longer.

Store your razor properly by keeping it dry

Deluxe Sensitive Platinum Razor

After you rinse off your razor, try to store it in a dry place in the shower to help avoid rust developing on the blades. A plastic guard for your blade can also help protect it when you’re not using it.

Replace your razor blade often

Venus Extra Smooth 4 Refills Pack

There is no set rule on how often you should change your razor blades; however, they typically last 5 to 10 shaves. With that being said, you should always replace your razor blade at the first sign of dullness. Feeling any discomfort from your razor when shaving indicates that your blade is dull. If your razor blade pulls at your body hair, feels rough on your skin, or has any irritation post-shave, it’s time to replace it.

With a clean, sharp blade on hand, you can protect your skin from razor burn, shaving rashes, and irritation and help achieve your desired results. Explore all Venus shaving products available, from shaving gels to blade refills.

Mistakes to avoid while cleaning razor and razor blades

Women shaving her leg

Follow our expert tips and tricks when cleaning your razor to help your blades last longer, so you can achieve a better shave.

Using harsh chemicals

Women applying chemicals on her leg

While cleaning your razor, it's best to avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. These chemicals can damage the metal parts of your razor, causing it to deteriorate or break down over time. Instead, opt for mild soaps and warm water to clean your blades

Tapping your razor

Woman shaving her legs in the bathroom

Tapping your razor blades on the sink, bath or shower can cause damage and make them less effective. Instead, leave your blades to airdry in a cool, dry place. This will help ensure that your razor remains sharp and effective for longer.

Not drying your razor properly

Woman posing in her underwear

After cleaning your razor, it's important to dry it thoroughly. The best way to do this is airdrying in a cool, dry place. Wiping your razor on a towel for example, may damage the blades resulting in a less effective shave..

Sharing your razor

Different Types and Design of Razors

Sharing razors is not hygienic and can lead to infections if you get scratched or cut. To help avoid razor sharing, try keeping a few disposable razors on hand in case a house guest forgets her razor. And you can avoid accidentally using someone else’s razor by making sure yours is easily recognisable.

Reasons to clean your razor and razor blades

Shaving tools collage

From improved hygiene to better performance, here are the top reasons why you should take care of your razor blades:

Preventing skin irritation and infection

When you use a razor, it can accumulate dead skin cells, hair, and bacteria that can lead to skin irritation or infections such as folliculitis. Over time, this build-up can also reduce the effectiveness of the blade, making it more difficult to achieve a close shave. Therefore, regular cleaning of your razor and blades can help ensure that they remain clean, sharp, and safe to use.

Maintaining hygiene

A dirty razor can collect germs and bacteria, which can increase the risk of infections and skin problems. By regularly cleaning your razor and blades, you can help maintain good hygiene and reduce the risk of razor rashes and shaving spots.

Prolonging the life of your razor blades

Razor blades can become dull over time due to exposure to moisture, and shaving cream or soap residue. By cleaning your razor and blades regularly, you can remove any build-up and help keep the blades sharp for longer. This can save you money on replacement blades and ensure a more comfortable and efficient shave with a clean razor.

Clean Razor and Razor blades FAQ

What can you soak your razor in to clean it?

You do not need to soak your razor. Run water through your blades from the back to the front to remove any lodged hairs or debris. Shake off the excess water to dry off the blades.

Why does my razor rust so quickly?

Rust on a razor can occur due to exposure to moisture, use of hard water, or harsh chemicals. To prevent rust, airdry the razor after use by storage in a cool, dry place.

Can you clean a rusty razor?

If your razor has rust it may be time to consider replacing your razor or razor blade, as continued use could lead to razor rashes or infection.