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How Many Shaves Per Blade?

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I’m often asked by “newbies” how many shaves they should expect out of their DE blades. Its a tough question to answer because there are so many variables, not the least of which is the particular brand of blade they’re using. But here is a poll from badgerandblade about shaves per blade. It looks like the average is 3-5 shaves. How about you? The results of my poll:
How Many Shaves Can You Get Out Of A Blade (Select Days and Blade Type)?
One or Two
2 (3%)
Three to Five
27 (52%)
Six to Eight
20 (39%)
More Than Eight
1 (1%)
Cartridge Blade(s)
2 (3%)
DE/SE Blade
34 (66%)
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Shave tutor and co-founder of sharpologist. I have been advocating old-school shaving for over 20 years and have been featured in major media outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and Lifehacker. Also check out my content on Youtube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!View Author posts

9 thoughts on “How Many Shaves Per Blade?”

  1. Richard Sisson

    I get 20 to 30 shaves from a double edge Parker 88R with a Wilkenson blade. (7 cents apiece ) When I am done shaving, I dip the head of the razor in rubbing alcohol, and let it air dry. It makes the blade last a long time. I learned this trick years ago, and I have used it with the single edge Bic blades I used to buy. I also use a shaving cup and a badger hair brush. I hydrate my face several times before I lather up. Then I work the lather into my face for at least a minute before shaving. Then I repeat the whole process again for a really close barber shop shave .

  2. Marc Bosch

    Well, you can "strop" DE or SE blades on your hand, and let them dry outside the razor in order to make them last longer. You can "strop" a little bit cartridge razors as well. Two passes on the palm of your hand per side ought to be enough. There's a video on YT about that. Check it!

  3. CRasH180

    Strange. I read a post by someone talking about the multiblade refills. They stated you can make a blade last a month by blowing off the the blade and drying it completely with a towel. I suppose now that I think of it, the blades were all getting duller with each use and each of the four other blades were compensating. I asked for a Merkur Progress or Heavy Classic for Christmas. Hope to be on the Safety razor very, very soon.

  4. Secret Guide to Shaving

    I've found that Feather blades last the longest. I got about 15 shaves per blade. Shark blades on the other hand thus far are getting 3 shaves before they find themselves changed out.

  5. gardner

    Funny, after almost 30 years of using the same single edge razor, I am finally learning how to use it properly.
    I have been using a razor for about 3 weeks to maybe a month. When it starts to pull or a nick, I get a new one. A box of ten, lasted almost a year. Well, I guess I will try changing the blade more often. Thanks for the informative site. Gardner

  7. Anonymous

    I can usually get 3-4 shaves per Merkur blade. It depends on how often I go in between shaves. When it cuts heavier growth each time, I get less shaves.

  8. mansplace

    I can typically get 6 good days worth out of my merkurs. It’s convenient because I know every Monday to change my blade. If I go over 6, I’ll be pressing my luck.

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