Maintenance & Servicing Hairdressing Scissors (Guide)
Scissor Maintenance & Servicing Guide
Proper care extends your scissors' life from 2-3 years to 10+ years. Learn how to maintain your investment and access professional servicing across New Zealand.
Daily Maintenance for NZ Conditions
New Zealand's varied climate requires consistent care to keep your scissors performing perfectly.
Morning Prep
- Check tension before first client
- Ensure blades are clean and dry
- Apply one drop of oil to pivot point
- Open and close several times to distribute
Between Clients
- Wipe blades with soft, dry cloth
- Remove hair from pivot area
- Check for product buildup
- Quick spray with alcohol if needed
End of Day
- Thorough clean with alcohol wipe
- Dry completely - crucial in humid areas
- Apply oil to pivot and wipe excess
- Store in protective case
Climate-Specific Care
Auckland & Northland (Humid)
Challenge: High humidity = rust risk
Solutions:
- Oil twice daily in summer
- Silica gel packets in scissor case
- Never store wet or damp
- Consider dehumidifier for salon
Coastal Areas (Salt Air)
Challenge: Salt accelerates corrosion
Solutions:
- Daily cleaning essential
- Extra oil on exposed metal
- Closed case storage mandatory
- Monthly deep clean recommended
Canterbury & Central (Dry)
Challenge: Static and tension issues
Solutions:
- Regular tension checks
- Anti-static products helpful
- Still need daily oiling
- Watch for metal fatigue
Recommended Service Schedule
| Usage Level | Cuts Per Day | Sharpening Frequency | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy (Busy Salon) | 20+ | Every 3-4 months | $280-$350 |
| Medium (Average) | 10-20 | Every 6 months | $140-$175 |
| Light (Part-time) | 5-10 | Every 9-12 months | $70-$140 |
| Home Use | Weekly | Annually | $70 |
*Prices based on average NZ sharpening costs of $70 per service plus courier
DIY Maintenance Essentials
Your Maintenance Kit Should Include:
Japanese Camellia Oil
Superior to clipper oil for premium scissors. Prevents rust and ensures smooth action.
Microfibre Cloths
Soft, lint-free cloths for cleaning without scratching the finish.
Alcohol Wipes
70% isopropyl for sanitising and removing product buildup.
Tension Key
Usually included with scissors. Keep it safe for regular adjustments.
Protective Case
Quality case prevents damage and moisture exposure.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Scissors Won't Cut Cleanly
Causes:
- Blades need sharpening
- Tension too loose
- Hair/product buildup
Fix: Clean thoroughly, adjust tension, sharpen if needed
Rust Spots Appearing
Causes:
- Moisture exposure
- Insufficient oiling
- Salt air (coastal areas)
Fix: Light rust - oil and gentle rub. Heavy - professional service
Scissors Feel Stiff
Causes:
- Over-tightened tension
- Debris in pivot
- Lack of lubrication
Fix: Clean pivot area, oil, adjust tension carefully
Blades Not Aligned
Causes:
- Dropped scissors
- Improper sharpening
- Worn pivot area
Fix: Professional service required - don't attempt DIY
Temporary Replacement Program
Don't lose income while your scissors are being serviced!
How It Works
- Request loan scissors when booking service
- Quality scissors shipped same day
- Use while yours are serviced
- Return when yours come back
Cost
- $30 per week rental
- Free for purchases over $500
- Fully refundable deposit required
- Shipping included both ways
Available Models
- 5.5" and 6.0" cutting scissors
- Thinning scissors
- Left-handed options
- All professionally maintained
Pro Maintenance Tips from NZ Stylists
"In Auckland's humidity, I oil twice daily in summer. Haven't had rust in 5 years!"
- Emma, Ponsonby Salon"Keep a second pair for busy days. Alternating extends both pairs' life significantly."
- James, Wellington Barber"Invested in proper sharpening every 4 months. Scissors still perfect after 8 years."
- Sarah, Christchurch StylistKeep Your Scissors Performing Perfectly
Download our complete maintenance guide or book a service consultation with our experts.
Book Service Consultation Download Care Guide PDF