Scissors are one of the most commonly used tools in households, offices, and schools. They are used to cut paper, fabric, and even food items. Over time, scissors can be dull , sticky, and rusty, which can notably affect their performance.
Keeping your scissors clean is essential for maintaining their sharpness and preventing damage to the blades. This article will discuss how to clean scissors effectively.
Why Clean Your Scissors?
There are several reasons why you should clean your scissors regularly. First, tiny particles can become trapped between the blades when you use scissors to cut through paper and other materials. Over time, these particles can cause the blades can become dull or even damaged.
Secondly, moisture can accumulate on the blades to become dull or even damaged, leading to rust or corrosion. Lastly, if you use scissors to cut food items, bacteria can grow on the blades, which can cause food poisoning.
Clean Scissors – What to Prepare
Before cleaning your scissors, you must gather the necessary materials. Here are the things you will need.
- Warm Water
- Mild Soap or Detergent
- Soft-Bristled Brush
- Clean, Dry Cloth
- Rubbing Alcohol or White Vinegar (Optional)
Step 1: Disassemble the Scissors
If your scissors can be disassembled, take them apart so that you can clean each part separately. This will make it easier to clean the blades thoroughly.
Step 2: Soak the Blades
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap or detergent. Place the blades of the scissors in the bowl and let them soak for a few minutes. This will help to loosen any debris that is trapped between the blades.
Step 3: Brush the Blades
After soaking the blades, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the blades gently. Be sure to remove any debris that is trapped between the blades. Use a gentle motion to avoid damaging the blades.
Step 4: Rinse the Blades
Once you have scrubbed the blades, rinse them under running water to remove any remaining debris and soap residue. Be sure to rinse both sides of the blades thoroughly.
Step 5: Dry the Blades
Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the blades thoroughly. Be sure to dry both sides of the blades and the pivot area. If your scissors have a spring, make sure to dry it as well.
Step 6: Reassemble the Scissors
If you disassembled the scissor, reassemble them once the blade is dry. If necessary, apply a small amount of oil to the pivot area to keep the scissors operating smoothly.
Optional Step: Use Rubbing Alcohol or Vinegar
If your scissors are particularly dirty and have rust on them, you need to learn how to clean rusted scissors. You can use rubbing alcohol or white vinegar to clean them. Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol or white vinegar and use it to wipe down the blades.
Tips for Maintaining Your Scissors
In addition to cleaning your scissors regularly, you can do a few other things to keep them in excellent condition. Please see below.
Keep your scissors dry
After using your scissors, be sure to dry them thoroughly before storing them. Doing this action will help to prevent rust and corrosion.
Store your scissors properly
Store your scissors in a dry and safe place when you are not using them. Keep them away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. You can store your scissors in a drawer or a protective case to prevent them from getting damaged.
Use your scissors for their intended purpose
Scissors are designed for specific tasks like cutting paper, fabric, or food. Using your scissors for their intended tasks can damage the blades and shorten their lifespan.
Sharpen your scissors regularly
Over time, the blades of your scissors can become dull. When this happens, it is essential to sharpen them to maintain their sharpness. You can use a sharpening stone or a sharpening tool to sharpen your scissors.
Avoid Cutting Hard or Thick Materials
Cutting hard or thick materials, such as cardboard or wire, can damage the blades of your scissor. If you need to cut hard or thick materials, use specialized tools designed for that purpose, such as box cutters or wire cutters. This will help prevent damage to your scissors and keep them in good condition.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean scissors properly is essential for maintaining sharpness and preventing damage to the blades. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking good care of your scissors, you can ensure they will last for many years. Always remember to store your scissors properly, use them for their intended purpose, and sharpen them regularly to keep them in excellent condition.