Thread: Oil after every shave?

Just got my first straight razor back from being professionally honed. A note was included when the razor was returned that advised oiling the razor after each and every use. Is this really necessary? If so is there an alternative to purchasing a razor oil and applicator?

Thank you

I don't know if it's necessary, but I would take the advice given as we learn from experience. As far as alternatives, I use the blade oil that came with my clipper set and apply the oil with a Q-tip.

Stephan sent me a razor afew years ago that was coated with Ballistol. I highly recommend usins it to protect your investment.It's use served me well!!!

Necessary? no. Worth the time/trouble? I think so. Special oil and applicator? I have a bottle of mineral oil, I shake it when closed so that the inside of the cap is coated. I take the cap off and dab my finger lightly on the coated surface. This small dab is plenty enough oil to cover the blade and scales if I want (don't usually do the scales). Takes about 40 seconds. None of my blades have ever shown any sign of rust or other negative effects of excess water. (Disclaimer: I have soft water and live in a dry climate). I do not recommend this for anyone else though because I don't want any repercussions due to you slicing the tips of your finger off while improperly wiping the oil near the cutting edge of your razor. And in fact I actually recommend against this method due to the one or two clumsy users who may actually drop their blade after being cut thereby destroying the edge all in the name of a bit of oil.

But really, it's not that hard. Pay attention, lighten up and don't get cocky. Happy oiling!

And another vote "aye" for the practice. I also live in a dry climate but had one razor pit virtually overnite, tho many others have not. It doesn't take that long so cheap, easy insurance. I value my razors.

I know of the recommendation but rarely oil my blades. Only if I know I won't use the razor for a long time, then I might coat with a thin layer of petroleum jelly. Otherwise, I don't oil my everyday shaver. I'm into keeping it as simple as possible, and removing a coating of oil every day before shaving would be too much of a PITA for me.

Originally Posted by ReardenSteel

I don't know if it's necessary, but I would take the advice given as we learn from experience. As far as alternatives, I use the blade oil that came with my clipper set and apply the oil with a Q-tip.

I use good ol WD-40 applied with a cotton ball,Light coat,but I do have a bottle of oil that came with my clippers. Never thought of usin it. Might give it a wack. Shpanks fer the idear RS !

Originally Posted by RyDev87

Just got my first straight razor back from being professionally honed. A note was included when the razor was returned that advised oiling the razor after each and every use. Is this really necessary? If so is there an alternative to purchasing a razor oil and applicator?

Thank you

Yes and no.
Always clean your razor, the last step of cleaning is to wipe the blade with
a cloth or tissue to make sure it is dry. This last step is when you would
apply the thinnest layer of oil. Mineral oil is a good choice.

Me I can see if there is any oil left on the blade as I rinse soap off and wipe
the blade. If in doubt a little oil is a good thing.

I always oil the pivot of a new razor. Liberally...

I have mostly rescue razors that I have cleaned up and hand polished with MAAS.
If I see the slightest bit of trouble I get out the MAAS and polish. I keep a tube of
Happich Simichrome Polish or MAAS right next to my styptic pencil.

You have a fine new sparkling razor you do not want to be sanding and polishing
out a rust spots so use oil.

I just looked at a box of those extra soft tissues for colds and red noses. They sometimes
are treated with a fine bit of mineral oil. That may be all you need.

A mint tin with a folded bit of mineral oiled tissue can be used over and over.

SUMMARY: If you have a fine new sparkling razor you do not want to be sanding and polishing
out a rust spots so use oil.

If you live in a dry climate "Colorado" then oiling is not neccesary.. Hawaii? Oil the crap out of it.

I've never used oil and have never seen rust appear on blades. I certainly don't oil the pivots and allow no water in that area either.