Thread: Alum blocks

This may seem a silly question, I have only started to use the alum block since I started to DE shave. I use it after every shave, but how long do they last. Is it the case that you use them until they wear down or they go clear. Having used it for about 2/3 weeks it does not seem as strong hence my question. Thanks

It may be that your techniques just getting better and hence you aren't feeling that distinctive stinging sensation so much?

For my own part, i have a block that has lasted circa 6 months so far since i bought it - it still seems to work well.

Alas with only anecdotal evidence, you should wait for others to reply before judging.

Stevie,
The alum block should last you several months. This is the way I use it: After the shave, I rinse with tepid water, run the alum under cold water and then rub it on my face for about 15 second, and about a minute or so later, then rinse it off with cold water. When the has shrunk to a small and unusable size, it's time to get a new one.

A 1 lb chunk of Alum from an asian market $1.29, lasts me 5 yrs.

I've had my Shavex alum for over six months and it is hardly diminished and should easily provide a couple of years or more.

I don't put mine under any water. I rinse my face then rub with the block. Blot it dry on a towel and put it away until tomorrow. I got one of moderate size from Maggart razors and I can not tell that it has diminished in size in the last 3 months. I am sure putting it in water, especially running would dissolve it much more rapidly...

How long do they last?? LOL!! Well now that depends on two things!

One - what size it is to start! I use this:


Oui, oui!! I am French monsieur!

This is a small block! About 3 by 1.3 ish. Anyway. The first one I got lasted the better part of a year. The second, the better part of a week! Which brings me to the second variable.

It depends if you drop it or not lol! You drop it and these things shatter like glass! . Always have a couple just in case !

Cheers!

I've always found you get to a certain size and the likelihood of dropping it starts to increase logarithmically. if you are over age 60 you can quadruple those chances. (or so I'm told). I get mine from Tolumba. They cost a couple bucks each when you buy em in bulk.

Wow, what are you guys doing with your alum, eating it as a snack? Mine is still going after nearly four years and it wasn't even one of those bath bar sized blocks......

Granted, I don't shave 7 days a week like some of you guys either.

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

A 1 lb chunk of Alum from an asian market $1.29, lasts me 5 yrs.

I'll bet it's a sight to see you use it !!!!