The Zero Waste Shave How To.

Making the switch to a safety razor was pretty far down on my list of changes, why? Not because I wasn't shaving, but because I was scared. However once I made the change I realised its not as scary as it seems. Don't get me wrong, it is different, and you do need to be more careful (these blades mean business and are super sharp!) but with a few teaks to your routine, you're going to end up with a more effective and cheaper shave.

Maybe you have bought a safety razor, or maybe you're still thinking about it, either way you're probably asking, how do I use a safety razor and is it a different experience from a normal razor? Well I've got you covered!

The first step when you get your new safety razor is to add the blade. Our Caliwoods razors are a three piece razor, so if you are using a different type of razor your instructions to add the blade will be different.  

• Hold the top of the razor with one hand and twist the bottom with your other hand until the pieces come apart.
• Take the two top pieces, separate them, then carefully place the blade over the screw of the top piece. Its important when you are holding a blade to only touch the short sides, as the blades are very sharp!
• Place the second top piece over the first and hold them together. Then twist the bottom of the razor back in place to close, making sure its nice and tight so it doesn't come loose while shaving.

Now, its shaving time!

• Wet your skin and lather with soap, conditioner or shaving soap.
• Wet your razor
• Lightly drag your razor over your skin on a 35 degree angle, making sure not to press down, the weight of the razor will do all the work, rinsing the razor after 1-3 strokes. We recommend using short strokes so you can easily adjust the angle and make sure you don't get any cuts!
• Rinse your skin with water so no hair or soap is left
• Dry your skin with a towel
• Be excited! You have just had your first plastic free shave!

Make sure you pay extra attention to the areas around your knee, ankle bone and the back of your ankle, especially when you are first starting with a safety razor to minimise your risk of nicks.

Still feeling uneasy about the transition? Caliwoods have made an awesome video tutorial!

Made to last a lifetime

With some TLC, a safety razor can last a lifetime. Simply rinse well after each use, dry the razor and store in a dry place. Looking to use it daily? A soap keeper kept outside the shower will make sure it stays dry and close by with minimal effort!

Your blades need to be replaced when they’re blunt. This will be after 5-15 shaves on average depending on how thick your hair is. If you see any rust on your blade from residual water, make sure you either buff it out before using or switch the blade for a new one. Once you're done with your blades, you can pop them in your blade return envelope, and once full bring them in store or send them directly to Caliwoods to be repurposed.

Photo by Nectar Photography.