Electric razors serve a vital role in grooming - they shave faster and safer than manual models without the help of other items such as shaving cream.
However…
They are harder to maintain so you need to learn how to clean an electric shaver. Otherwise, it will break down eventually and your shaving experience will surely be ruined.
That’s why…
We prepared three ways to clean an electric shaver, so read further to find what fits your model!
Page Contents
The Importance Of Cleaning And Maintenance
Keeping your razor at its optimal condition improves its durability, meaning you don’t have to buy replacement parts as often. Some models don’t even let you replace the cutters, so you have to buy an entirely new razor which can be costly.
This also improves the razor’s trimming ability. Hair, skin cells, and foam/gel particles build up on the razor, especially if you shave daily. This can clog up the blades and the motors which interfere with the cutting action, leading to a less effective trim.
Not only that, but this build-up creates an environment for bacteria to thrive which will eventually transfer to your skin when you shave (yikes!).
This can lead to numerous skin infections such as folliculitis, especially around the face and neck since facial skin is sensitive and that’s where we shave the most.
How Often You Should Clean Your Razor
Excessively cleaning your electric razor is just as bad as not cleaning it at all. In this case, you need to differentiate quick cleaning from deep cleaning.
Quick Cleaning
Quick cleaning involves simply brushing off the hair strands from your shaver. If it’s waterproof, you can just hold it under running water for a few seconds.
This is something you should do immediately after using your shaver. If you use it every day, clean it every day - please don’t wait for a few days before quick cleaning, as that can result in bacteria build-up.
Deep Cleaning
On the other hand, deep cleaning involves disassembling your shaver to access the inner parts and using other materials such as soap and sprays.
This process is meant for disinfecting electric razors, so it’s a good idea to do this every week or every other week. If you share the razor with someone, you might want to do this more often (about every three days) to avoid cross-contamination.
We will discuss all of the methods in this article for deep cleaning, so keep that in mind.
Know Your Equipment
Whether you’re using a rotary or foil razor, learning how it can be opened up, which parts can and can’t be disassembled, and if it’s waterproof are necessary to avoid damaging anything while cleaning.
This can easily be done by reading the manual that the shaver comes with upon purchase or looking up the model that you use.
And with that, let’s start with:
How To Clean An Electric Razor With Water
If you’re planning to clean your shaver using water, make sure that it is waterproof. This information should be clear from product packaging and the user manual.
Otherwise, your shaver will suffer irreversible damage and you will have to buy a new one. With that being said, here’s how to clean the best electric razor for black men with water.
1. Unplug The Razor
If you have a corded razor, make sure that you unplug it first from the socket. Disassembling and washing any plugged appliance poses the risk of getting electrocuted, so always prioritize your safety!
2. Remove Most Of The Hair Strands
Afterward, you have to remove most of the loose hair by disassembling the head of the razor. Depending on the type of shaver and the specific model, you may need different disassembling procedures.
For rotary shavers, only remove the head for this step - don’t disassemble the combs and rotating cutters yet, we’ll get to that later.
Then, gently tap the disassembled head and the rest of the razor against a hard surface (like the side of the sink) to shake off the hair.
You can also do this with a small brush. Most models come with a cleaning brush upon purchase, but you can also use a small paintbrush or toothbrush. Just make sure that there is no build-up on the brush because this can damage your shaver.
Meanwhile, if you use shaving cream/gel, don’t use a brush since the surface will be covered in foam. Just rinse it with water instead.
3. Cleanse With Soap And Water
The next step is for disinfecting an electric razor. Depending on your model, this can be done in three ways - the first is for cordless razors, the second is for corded razors, and the third is for rotary models only.
First Method (Cordless)
If your foil or rotary shaver is cordless, reattach the head after the first step. You should now have a reassembled shaver.
Pour a small quantity of liquid soap and water onto the head and turn on the power. The soap should seep through and wash the cutters as the razor creates movement - it’s like your razor is washing its hands!
If you don’t have liquid soap, you can also dip the shaver’s head in some soapy water then turn the power on.
After about 10 seconds, turn off the power and rinse the soap with running water. You may reopen the head to clean the remaining soap.
Second Method (Corded)
Theoretically, you can do the first method for corded razors if you’re careful enough, but you can get electrocuted so here’s a safer alternative.
After the first step, prepare a container to mix liquid soap with warm water. Swish all of the disassembled parts in soapy water until they are completely clean.
Rinse the parts in another batch of hot water and you’re ready for the next step.
Third Method (Rotary Only)
If you have a foil razor, the first method is as far as you can go. You can still do the first method for a rotary razor, but if you want a deeper cleanse, you have to do some intricate steps.
If you remember from the first step, you only opened up the head without releasing the combs and cutters. Make sure that you properly read the user manual for this method.
Disassembling rotary shavers can be quite complicated because apart from the head, some models allow you to remove the frame and release each comb and rotating cutter.
You have to be careful about doing this because the cutters and combs are matching pairs, meaning you can’t mix and match them, or else the cutters will be less efficient and they will wear down quicker.
After disassembling each part, you can wash them in soapy water then rinse off the soap afterward.
4. Let It Dry
For the final step, gently pat each shaver part with a clean towel and let them air dry. Carefully reassemble the shaver, especially if you did the third method of the second step.
It’s crucial to make sure that each part is dry before reassembling and storing to avoid stagnant water, as this can lead to a funky smell if not stored properly.
How To Clean An Electric Razor Without Water
Vintage shavers and very few modern models aren’t waterproof, so dry cleaning is as far as you can go.
Again, make sure that you read the labels to know whether your shaver is waterproof or not.
This procedure is quite similar to the water-and-soap cleaning (except for the third step), so we’ll go over their similar steps quickly.
1. Unplug The Razor
As a safety measure, disconnect the shaver from a power outlet if your model is corded. This is to avoid electrocution as you disassemble the shaver parts.
2. Remove The Hair Strands
Next, you have to remove the hair inside by disassembling the head of the razor. You have to know every piece that can be removed since you need to access all the internal parts.
For rotary shavers, you can release the combs and cutters. This process can be complicated since you have to avoid mismatching the pieces, so refer to the user manual if you need help.
Then, gently tap the disassembled pieces and the rest of the razor on a hard surface to release the bulk of loose hair strands.
For the hair strands that can’t be shaken off, you can use a small brush to access the tight corners. Just make sure that it’s clean to avoid damaging the shaver.
For foil shavers, make sure that you handle the foils carefully since it is the most sensitive part of the head.
If you can’t fully clean it by tapping or brushing, you can use a can of compressed air or an air blower for those hard-to-reach areas.
3. Use A Spray Cleaner
Once every part is free from hair, apply a generous amount of spray cleaner on each part. Spray cleaners are typically sold by your razor’s manufacturer.
Not only does this disinfect and degrease your shaver, but it also lubricates the mechanisms so your shaver won’t wear down easily.
Just make sure that each part of the razor is dry before spraying.
4. Reassemble
For the final step, wait for the spray cleaner to dry then carefully reassemble your razor. If you use a rotary model, make sure that you don’t mix up the combs and cutters.
Store it in a dry place, and you’re good to go!
How To Clean Electric Razor With An Electric Razor Cleaner
If you use brands such as Philips Norelco, Braun, or Panasonic, then you probably know that they also manufacture cleaning devices that can be used for a specific range of models.
They typically come in a bundle with a high-end razor model, but they can also be bought individually.
Using a cleaning solution, an electric razor cleaner does all the work - cleaning, drying, lubricating, and even charging, which saves a lot of time if you have a busy schedule.
So how do you use it?
1. Prepare The Cleaner
You need to fill up the electric razor cleaner with its designated solution for the cleaning process to start.
The solution typically comes in a cartridge that can be inserted into the device. If not, it comes in a sachet that you have to mix with tap water.
Also, make sure that the razor model you have is compatible with the cleaner. It may not attach or function properly otherwise.
2. Operate The Cleaner
Plug the device into an outlet and flip the power switch if there is one. Wait for the power indicator light before operating.
Insert the shaver head-first into the base of the cleaner. There should be a clicking sound and/or a separate light indicator if it is attached properly.
You can now press the button that activates the cleaning cycle. For more advanced models, there are multiple cleaning options to choose from. The more intensive the cleaning option, the longer it will take to finish.
3. Wait For It To Finish
Now just let it do its magic. After cleaning, drying, lubricating, and charging, there should be an indicator that it’s done. If you’re unsure, you can check if the device isn’t making noise anymore.
Take out your razor and use a small brush to remove any remaining hair on the surface. You’re pretty much ready for your next shave!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There A Safety Measure In Cleaning An Electric Razor?
Yes, of course, especially if your razor is corded. Make sure that you unplug your razor before cleaning because you need to get to its internal parts. You’re at risk of electrocution otherwise!
Apart from that, you have to be careful when cleaning the cutters. Most modern models are built to avoid cutting the skin, but you’re exposed to the blades when you disassemble the pieces.
Can I Use Any Liquid Soap To Clean An Electric Shaver?
Yes. As long as it’s safe for the skin, go for it. If you’re not using a cleaner that’s specifically manufactured for razors, then ask yourself, “Can I wash my body with this?” before using any liquid soap.
If you don't want to use any soap but want a deep clean for best budget electric razor, watch this video:
Are There Other Ways To Maintain An Electric Razor?
Yes. You can use a spray cleaner or a drop of hair clipper oil to maintain the smooth performance of your razor. Apart from hair and residue, friction and heat can also wear down your razor. Lubricating the cutters is a good way to slow down this process. If neither cleaning nor lubricating does the trick, then the head or cutters of your razor is probably worn out and you need to buy replacement parts.
The Bottom Line
Whether you shave for hygienic purposes or to feel good about your body, you need to keep your tools in top condition.
Failure to do so will wear down your electric shaver, but it will build up bacteria that will transfer to your skin, so you need to learn how to clean an electric shaver.
Remember, if you’re swiping something across your face, make sure it isn’t dirty!
