Prep checklist

Set up a maintenance station with:

Store supplies in a waterproof pouch near your station so the routine becomes habit.

Step-by-step protocol (7 minutes)

Rinse & wipe (2 min): Spray alcohol onto the cloth (never directly onto the shear) and wipe blades, spine, and pivot. Use cotton swabs for tight areas.
Dry (30 sec): Pat dry with a clean section of the cloth. Ensure no moisture remains near the screw.
Inspect (1 min): Hold blades under bright light. Look for chips, burrs, or corrosion. Note findings in your log.
Oil (1 min): Place one drop of shear oil at the pivot, open/close 10–15 times, then wipe excess.
Tension check (1 min): Lift one blade to 45°. A smooth close indicates correct tension. Adjust in quarter turns or single clicks.
Storage (30 sec): Place shears in their case, tip guard, or magnetic rack away from moisture and chemical fumes.
Log (1 min): Record date, tension adjustment, issues spotted, and any planned sharpening.

Maintain a shared log so entries stay consistent across your team and ready for inspections.

Once per week, include:

Follow state sanitation regulations by sanitizing tools between clients and performing this protocol at day’s end.
If your salon has compliance logs, integrate this protocol so audits show consistent care.

Consistency keeps edge life high and reduces emergency sharpenings.