safety razor FAQ

Safety razors aren’t new to us, but they are new to you so we wanted to answer YOUR questions. Thank you for submitting them, we’ve answered them all below.

If you have more questions – feel free to ask and we will add them plus answers here.

Your questions – Our answers

Safety Razor Technique

What are the major differences one must consider before using this type of razor? Can I just go at it? Do you just use them like normal??

We would suggest start slow to get comfortable with how lightly you can hold the razor. These blades are sharper than some disposable blades, which is why a more considered approach is recommended. Using small, light strokes you will be able to shave as normal. Because there is a sharp blade we wouldn’t suggest rushing through the shaving process.

Otherwise – if you’ve shaved before, you should be good to go for it!

What is the best angle to use them at — l would like to know the technique and the best way to use it.

Honestly, although they might seem intimidating at first, you really use them exactly like your current razor. Hold the handle at no more than a 30-degree angle and gently slide across the skin. Our biggest recommendation would be to hold them lighter on your skin and use long strokes rather than quick, hard, short strokes.

Trying to implement a zero waste lifestyle and these razors are the perfect solution! One of my only concerns is storing the blade and having to assembly each time. I’m scared of cuts! What can I do? 

No need to assemble each time. Just replace the blade every 5-7 shaves as you would with a multi-blade cartridge razor.
We recommend doing this before you get in the shower with dry hands to make sure nothing is slippery and avoid any cuts.
The best trick is to tighten the head by holding the corners.

Is there less irritation with a safety razor?!

Absolutely! We find with one blade and oil there is hardly any, to none at all, irritation!

Do they work as well as other razors?

We would have to say that they are definitely a superior shave to any multi-blade razor that we have used - the shave is smoother and lasts longer.

Do you have to use a special soap when shaving with a safety razor?

You don’t have to use a special soap with the safety razor, but we recommend using a shave oil because it moisturizes as you shave and leaves your skin feeling extra nourished, smooth and way less dry than traditional soap!

Blades – changing & recycling

How do you change the blade?

It’s really simple to change the blade as the handle unscrews from the top and then you insert the blade in here.
For the easiest change – put all the pieces on the counter top while you are switching them out.
We wouldn’t recommend changing blades in the shower and be careful to hold the sides of the blade on the not-sharp edges.

Full instructions and video on how to assemble are here.

Where can you get new blades?

All safety razor blades fit, and you can find them at your nearest drugstore or from us of course.

And bonus – Replacement blades for safety razors are actually cheaper than typical Gillette and Venus refills!

There’s a bunch of different types so you’ll find what works best for you. We sell Astra, but you can actually buy a variety pack to test a bunch of options!

Any tips on recycling the blades? 

Yes! We are so excited that these handles have no plastic and the blades also are plastic free and recyclable. We would recommend collecting all the used blades in a blade bank or a small metal jar and then dropping them off at your local recycling depot. This means they can recycle the whole thing!

We have set up a recycling program with our blade bank - once you fill up your blade bank with ~100 used blades, you mail it back to us and we will recycle the whole thing and send you a new, empty blade bank back free of charge. 

And how long do you use the blade for?

The blade is good for about 5-7 shaves (same recommendation as a multi-blade cartridge).

Other Safety Razor Q&A

What is the cost? I would love to get onboard 🙂

The initial cost of the razor is more, but the blades are a fraction of the cost (as low as $0.10 if you buy in bulk compared to $3-6 for multi-blade cartridges; it doesn’t take long to make up the difference!)

I’m curious about storage, and also travel… can they come in my carry on luggage when traveling by air?

You can keep them in your shower as you normally would, and store spare blades in the cupboard.
As for carry on – we don’t think you’re allowed any kind of razor blade in carry on luggage so these likely wouldn’t be different. You could bring the handle though and then purchase blades on arrival.

Where are they available?

On our site – check them out here!
Or at one of our amazing stockists.