Image Source: Wikipedia
Unless you’re a member of the bearded community, then you’re well aware that shaving isn’t cheap. Between the razor handle, blades, creams and lotions, your daily ritual can quickly add up. And, the biggest culprit on your wallet? Blades.
While there are ways to avoid giving companies like Gillette or Schick your hard earned cash, such as switching over to safety razors or joining Dollar Shave Club or Harry’s, there are still plenty of us out there who rely on the disposable razor. While not the most effective, it does manage to get the job done when in a pinch. And, sometimes it’s just difficult to change old habits.
Because of the outrageous price of disposable cartridges, we’re decided to put together five options that can extend the life of you blade. Even if you made the move to a double-edge or straight razor, some of these options may even work out for you.
5. The Blue Jean Sharpening Method
This method has been circulating online for some time now. And, it’s probably even one of the more popular tricks that men have been using to sharpen their disposable blades.
How to Do It:
Just stoke the razor along the entire length of a leg on a pair of denim blue jeans. It’s suggested that you do around 10 to 20 strokes and then switch directions. Since the threads of the jeans run in a diagonal, switching directions will create a balanced approach to tuning the blade’s edge.
Does It Work?
This method will not exactly sharpen the blades, you can’t sharpen a tool against something that is softer, it will re-align the tiny metal indentations. The blades will now feel “sharper” because it’s better aligned.
4. The Forearm Sharpening Method
A wise men figured that if barbers used to sharpen their blades on a leather strap, why wouldn’t running a blade against something resembling leather work?
How to Do It:
Simply run the razor along your forearm from your elbow to your wrist making sure that the sharp part is facing opposite to the direction you are moving the blade, aka backwards. Do about 10 to 20 strokes and switch directions.
Does It Work?
As with the jean technique, this won’t “sharpen” the blades. However, it will help remove the imperfections from the face of the blade.
3. Strop With Razor Renew
Men used to sharpen their blades by “stropping” the blades on a leather strap. So, why can’t men strop their disposable razor blades? That’s the question that Razor Renew sough to answer.
How to Do It:
Hang the strop up and then run the blade along the suede side several times. To polish the blades, run along the smooth side.
Does It Work?
Stropping is a tried and trusted method of sharpening and maintaining blades. On top of restoring the razor blades, you can use Razor Renew for any item that requires sharpening, like knives, scissors or any other sort of blade. Reviews seem favorable for this modern take on an iconic technique. However, some people have argued that you can save the $25 and use a leather belt.
2. Clean With RazorPit
The makers of RazorPit applied a scientific approach when dealing with the problem of restoring dull blades. It was no surprise that they discovered that after using a razor blade it became full of debris, which in turn, caused the blades to dull. After tests with different material, it was found that a type of silicon known as thermo-plastic elastomer was effective in cleaning and restoring the blades.
How to Do It:
One you’re done shaving, lubricate the RazorPit with a thin layer of shaving product. Place the razor blade onto the surface of RazorPit. Apply light pressure and push the razor forward along the entire surface. Repeat 4–5 times after every shave. Also make sure to rinse the razor and RazorPit with warm water.
Does It Work?
Since 2008, RazorPit has sold over 400,000 units. Either this works, or men have fallen for this gimmick – which doesn’t seem to be the case. RazorPit applies common sense to the problem with disposable razors. They get dirty. And, this little gadget will clean it up. Even Esquire is high on RazorPit. So we think this $35 product is a worthy investment.
1. Keep The Blades Clean and Dry
Image Source: Wikipedia
The most practical, and cost-effective, way to extend the life of your disposable razor is to keep it clean and moisture-free.
How to Do It:
Employ the basics of a quality shave: warm face to loosen hairs and apply cream (a brush is suggested. As you shave, continue to rinse the razor thoroughly since this will remove stubble and cream. After shaving is complete, rinse the razor, blot dry with a towel and dip into a cup of alcohol. This will purge the remaining moisture and sterilize the blades. When storing your razor, make certain it is not directly near a location where it can get wet, since you need to avoid moisture. Finally, keep the razor in an upright position.
Does It Work?
Absolutely. Debris and moisture are the main reasons why blades will dull, even after being used a couple of times. Cleaning and keeping the blade dry will definitely extend its usage.
Getting the most out of you disposable razor doesn’t make you cheap. It makes you wiser. Besides saving money, trying to restore the blades will offer a smoother and better shave – one that gets closer and avoids nicks and irritation.
If you have a method that extends the life of you razor blades, please sure in the comments below.
The post The 5 Best Ways to Extend the Life of Your Disposable Razor Blade appeared first on Everyguyed.