Thread: How to tell when to change the blade

Quick dumb question.

How can I tell when it's time to change the blade on my DE and approx how often do you find that it needs to be changed.

This morning when I shaved, I found I got some irritation on my face even though it didn't feel like the blade was "grabbing" the blade has been in there just shy of a week so I wonder if it's time for a new one......

Thanks in advance!

Probably. I think I only averaged 3 shaves when I used a DE.

A normal blade is good for 4-6 shaves...some fewer. Added drag, irritation, or requiring more effort to get the same level of shave are all different indicators that it's time to change. Each blade (and face) can be different. When in doubt, change it...the are only $0.16 a piece, after all

I just change the blade every 5 shaves, regardless.
It never get's to the point where it pulls...for 0.16c/per I don't need to stretch it out to where I get a poor shave.

Ok thanks everyone. New blade goes in for tomorrows shave

Even though different blades feel different and shave differently the one constant I have found is change the blade every 3-4 shaves depending on if I'm shaving 1 or 2 days growth.

Gentlemen,
I change blades every three shaves, because I believe the blade starts to degrade after that number. Whether Feather blades or anything below their status, three shaves and a new blade.

The hard and fast number of shaves works well for a lot of people, but I think the OP is looking for indicators.

With Astra SP I typically get 4-6 great shaves...with Feather, 2 (and absolutely no more). I will say there is normally a warning shave for me...one that pulls a little more than usual or requires a little more effort...and if I ever go one more past that, I will regret it.

Originally Posted by ryanjewell

The hard and fast number of shaves works well for a lot of people, but I think the OP is looking for indicators.

Hello, ryanjewell,
I am well aware of OP's question, but after spending years of evaluating the number of shaves each blade lasted, as well as the condition of the beard and the product that influenced the blade's longevity, I determined three shaves and out was a good average.
Stay well.

Actually I was hoping for either , my problem this morning is that I didn't feel any tugging, or any more effort required, it just gave me burn (the Alum block really stung this morning)

I am using the Merkur blades currently, Need to find myself a sampler pack to see which ones I like