Scissor Maintenance 101: How to Care for Your Shears Like a Pro

Posted by Scott Wilson

11th Sep 2025

Scissor Maintenance 101: How to Care for Your Shears Like a Pro

Pro Tips for Shear Maintenance: Storage, Oiling, Tension & Longevity

Why Scissor Maintenance Matters

Your shears aren’t just tools—they’re precision instruments that impact every cut you make. Without proper care, even high-quality Pro Series shears or swivel shears can dull prematurely, misalign, or worse—cause damage to hair and your hand health.

Proper maintenance improves shear performance, protects your hands, and extends the life of your investment.

How to Store Your Scissors Properly

Stylists often leave their scissors exposed on their station—but this invites accidents, dirt, and damage. Here’s how to protect your shears:

  • Use a protective case: Always store your shears in a case when not in use. Every purchase from us includes one free.
  • Never toss them into a drawer or bag unprotected—they’ll bang against other tools and dull quickly.
  • Keep them dry: Moisture leads to corrosion, even on high-end Master Series shears with VG10 steel.
  • At your station: Use a shear mat or magnetic stand if you want them visible but safe during the day.

How to Transport Shears Without Damage

Going mobile? Whether you're a traveling stylist or headed to a class, here’s how to transport your shears:

  • Use a padded case with individual shear slots.
  • Lock them closed with the tension screw snugly adjusted so the blades don’t open in transit.
  • Keep oil and a microfiber cloth in your kit to clean before and after travel.

Never throw them in your purse, backpack, or glove compartment. One good bump can chip the edge.

Oiling Your Shears the Right Way

Regular oiling keeps your shears smooth and protects the pivot area from wear. Here’s the correct method:

  • Use only approved shear oil: It should be non-scented, non-staining, and designed for salon tools.
  • Apply oil at the pivot (screw) point while the blades are open, then close and wipe off excess.
  • Frequency: Ideally every day, or at minimum once every 2–3 days of use.

Every pair of shears we sell comes with a free oil pen. If you’re out, replacements are available in our all scissors section.

How and Why to Check Tension Regularly

Improper tension can ruin your blades—and your haircut. Tension that’s too loose causes bending and folding. Too tight leads to hand fatigue and unnecessary wear.

How to test tension: Hold the shears vertically, open to 90 degrees. Let the top blade drop. If it closes fully, it's too loose. If it barely moves, it's too tight. The ideal tension stops around halfway.

  • Check tension every day or every few clients
  • Use the included tension key with your shears
  • If unsure, ask your local sharpener during service

Correctly Fitting Your Finger Inserts

Your finger inserts aren't just about comfort—they affect your cutting technique and hand health. You should:

  • Fit your thumb insert so your thumb rests naturally near the cuticle, not all the way through the ring
  • Fit your ring finger insert so the ring rests comfortably between your second and third knuckle
  • Avoid oversized loops that cause the shear to pivot awkwardly in your hand

We offer custom sizing and fitting support when you purchase or upgrade to new shears through our shear subscription box.

When to Sharpen & Why Local Pros Matter

Even the best shears need sharpening every 4–6 months, depending on usage. Here’s what to look for:

  • Your shears start pushing hair instead of cutting it cleanly
  • You're using more pressure or seeing split ends post-cut
  • You hear a scraping sound when closing the blades

Never lend your shears out. One wrong technique or misuse can damage the edge and throw off the tension. And avoid "mall kiosk" or knife sharpeners who aren’t trained on salon tools.

Shear Fanatic™ offers local, on-site sharpening throughout Maine, including white-glove sharpening in Lewiston, Auburn, Augusta, and Bangor. We use flat-hone systems, disinfect each tool, and let you test cut before we leave.

FAQ: Scissor Maintenance for Stylists

How often should I oil my shears?
Every day or every 2–3 days of cutting. Oil helps prevent corrosion and maintains smooth performance.
Can I use any oil?
No. Only use shear-specific oil that is non-staining and unscented. Do not use clipper oil, WD-40, or household lubricants.
How often should I sharpen my shears?
Every 4–6 months on average. Heavier users or dry cutters may need sharpening more often.
Do I really need finger inserts?
Yes. Properly fitted inserts improve control and reduce strain on your hand and wrist during long days.
Can I sharpen shears myself?
No. Salon shears require precision flat-hone equipment and trained expertise. DIY sharpening risks ruining the edge.

Final Thoughts: Take Ownership of Your Tools

Your scissors are the heart of your craft. Take care of them, and they'll take care of your clients—and your hands—for years to come.

Need new shears? Explore our Pro Series or try our shear subscription box. Need help with sharpening or tension? Our education and sharpening services are just a click away.

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