How to Care for Your Blades Between Professional Sharpening Services

Keeping your blades in great condition doesn’t end when they leave the sharpening bench. Whether you're a dog groomer, chef, hairdresser, gardener, or tradesperson, how you care for your tools between sharpening appointments has a huge impact on performance and lifespan.

This guide will help you protect your investment and get the most from every blade, with practical tips that apply across industries. If you rely on sharp tools, knowing how to maintain them between professional sharpening services is a must.

For Kitchens and Chefs

Kitchen knives go through a lot , daily chopping, slicing, washing, and drying.

Tips:

• Use wooden or plastic chopping boards, not glass or marble.

• Wash knives by hand, avoid dishwashers, which can dull edges.

• Dry knives immediately to prevent corrosion.

• Store safely in a block or on a magnetic strip to avoid edge damage.

Regular honing can help maintain the edge between professional sharpening services, but it’s not a substitute for sharpening.

For Hairdressers and Barbers

Hairdressing scissors and clippers are precision tools that see constant daily use.

Tips:

• Clean scissors after every use to remove hair and residue.

• Check the tension regularly to avoid unnecessary blade wear.

• Oil clippers and clipper blades daily if used frequently.

• Store all tools in protective pouches or cases.

Caring properly between each professional sharpening service helps preserve alignment and prevents costly repairs.

For Groomers and Animal Care

Blades used in grooming can become clogged quickly.

Tips:

• Use a blade wash or cooling spray regularly during sessions.

• Brush out fur and debris after each use.

• Oil moving parts to avoid rust and reduce heat.

• Store in a dry, dust-free area, avoid damp or direct heat.

These steps help keep grooming blades cleaner, sharper, and safer between your scheduled professional sharpening services.

For Gardeners

Secateurs, loppers, and shears need love too!

Tips:

• Clean off sap and soil after every use. Sap can harden like glue.

• Dry tools thoroughly and oil the joints and blades.

• Don’t use blades for tasks they’re not designed for (e.g. secateurs on thick branches).

Even top-quality blades will suffer if neglected. Protect your edge between professional sharpening services with these simple habits.

For Tradespeople and Hobbyists

Joiners, dressmakers, DIYers… your tools matter too!

Tips:

• Avoid using sharp tools on surfaces with hidden nails or screws.

• Wipe down blades after use, especially if cutting sticky materials or adhesives.

• Keep shears, planes, and knives stored securely and covered.

If you rely on sharp edges to do clean, accurate work, keeping them in shape between professional sharpening services is key to consistency.

Final Thoughts

Whatever your trade, professional sharpening services are vital, but so is what happens in between. 

• Good blade care:

• Saves money on repairs and replacements

• Improves performance

• Reduces wear and tear

• Keeps your work safer and cleaner

Looking after your tools means better results for you and your clients. 

Need help knowing when it’s time to sharpen? Check out our guide here: https://www.rmcsharpening.co.uk/post/how-do-i-know-when-my-blades-need-sharpening

Ready to book your next sharpening?

Contact RMC Blade Sharpening for expert, reliable, and trusted professional sharpening services across the North East.