Prolonging the life of your Shaving Razor Blade

How Many Times Can You Use a Razor Blade to Shave? - The Cheapskate Blog - TIME.com

With the rising cost on most consumer products these days, it doesn't hurt to try to save in every possible way you can. One way is if you shave to reuse disposable razors. WiseBread.com offers tips on prolonging the life of your razor blade. Including some lesser known ways of prolonging the life of your razor, such as sharpening them with a pair of Jeans or Coating your Razor... Read More

This razor trick works likely as a function of being an effective way to dry the blade. But from my research, users are very happy using this technique, and have made a disposable razor last up to a year, so there may be some additional benefits to this strategy.

Simply run the razor along the entire leg of an old pair of jeans 20 times in each direction. Apparently the cross-fibers of the jeans do a bang-up job of either drying and/or sharpening the blades to keep them pristine.

There's a link to video of how to do it at LifeHacker.com.

Coat the Razor

Not only water, but oxygen in the air plus the salt from your skin will contribute to a razor’s quick demise. So not only drying but also coating your razor can protect it from the water, oxygen, and corrosion that dull the blade.

Soak vs Dip – Some people advocate soaking the razor in a cup or vial filled with the substances below and storing it this way between shaves, while others indicate that a quick dip will do everything necessary to coat the blades and preserve the razor’s shelf life.

Alcohol (eg: Rubbing Alcohol)

This dissipates the water, encourages drying, and sanitizes the razor for an extra benefit (especially if you are prone to acne problems).

Oil

There are a number of oils you can use depending on preference, availability, and cost:

Mineral Oil – This seems to be one of the most effective oils to use, as it is also good for your skin.

Grape seed / Almond Oil – The cost-conscious might want to use a mixture of these oils instead of mineral oil, which can fetch a specialized price.

Baby Oil – I read about a fellow who actually used baby oil after running out of mineral oil (in an attempt to save money), and apparently even baby oil works well.

Barbicide

This is a purpose-driven anti-rust formula used by hairdressers and barbers for their scissors, combs, and razors. A little bit can go a long way.

Vinegar

Yes, vinegar is even good for your razor. It’s also great at eliminating any mineral build-up on the razor over time. Gotta love the stuff!

Hybrid Approach – Alcohol and Oil

Some people like to dip the blade in alcohol to get the water off, then dip it in oil to protect the razor against the elements between shaves.