<blockquote class="source-note"><p class="small text-muted mt-3">Source baseline: ScissorPedia research index and JapanShears distributor data — Document supporting interviews or shop quotes in the editorial log.</p></blockquote>
Shears stay sharp when you treat maintenance like part of the service. These routines come straight from the maintenance protocols (barber-maintenance-protocols.md) and the state-by-state guidelines captured in australian-market-reference.md.
Between Every Client
- Wipe – Tips down, wipe hair and product with a lint-free cloth. Prevents abrasive build-up.
- Disinfect – Spray an ARTG-listed option (e.g. BEAUTY.GIENE ARTG 353369 or Disso® ARTG 368170). Honour the dwell time printed on the label.
- Dry – Pat with disposable towel. Moisture left in the pivot kicks off corrosion, especially on the coast.
- Oil – One drop of shear oil (not clipper oil) on the pivot. Open/close 10 times, then wipe excess.
Pro tip: Log the routine on a laminated checklist at each station. Inspectors love visible compliance.
End-of-Day Reset
- Warm wash – Dip only the blades in warm water with pH-neutral soap, wipe clean, dry completely.
- Tension test – Lift the thumb blade to 90°, release. Aim for a smooth two-thirds close in 2–3 seconds. Adjust by quarter turns.
- Storage – Park shears closed in padded cases with silica packs if you are coastal or tropical.
Weekly Deep Clean
| Task | How | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Pivot flush | Cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol | Removes sweat and powder before they solidify |
| Edge inspection | Bright light + white paper to spot nicks | Plan sharpening before clients feel drag |
| Handle hygiene | Disinfect rings, inserts, tang | Protects skin and prolongs inserts |
| Log upkeep | Record oiling, tension, sharpening dates | Keeps warranty intact and apprentices accountable |
Climate Adjustments
- Coastal (Sydney, Perth): Add marine-grade anti-corrosion oil nightly. Replace silica packs monthly.
- Inland dust (SA, NT): Blow out pivots with compressed air before oiling to stop grit from becoming lapping compound.
- Tropical (Darwin, Cairns): Store shears in airtight containers with rechargeable dehumidifiers during the Wet.
Sharpening Cadence
| Edge | Busy Metro | Regional | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convex | Every 3–4 months | 5 months | Use certified flat-hone technicians; ship in padded cases. |
| Beveled / Micro-serrated | Every 5–6 months | 6–7 months | Specify that serrations must be preserved. |
| Texturisers | Every 9–12 months | 12 months | Close teeth before shipping; include cut % preference. |
Back up the plan with the service directory inside docs/shear-brand-validation.md.
Troubleshooting Signals
- Hair folds even after tension adjustments.
- Crunchy or grinding sound when closing.
- Rust freckles along the blade or in the pivot screw.
- Handle inserts turning colour (absorbent disinfectant build-up).
Hit any of those? Pull the shear from service, swap to your backup, and schedule professional care immediately.
Quick Reference Card (print & laminate)
TURNOVER: wipe → ARTG spray → dry → oil
END OF DAY: warm wash → dry → tension → case
WEEKLY: pivot swab → inspect edge → clean handles → log tasks
Consistent maintenance protects the investment, keeps inspectors happy, and ensures every client feels the difference in your chair.