How do I oil clipper blades without over-oiling them?
By the Atkinson Oil Co. product team (IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK). Claims reviewed by IGNIS Product & Compliance on 14 Nov 2026. Last updated: 14 November 2026.
Short answer. Brush the hair out, put a few drops of Atkinson Clipper Oil where your clipper maker shows, run the clipper briefly, then wipe the blade. It is a food-grade oil. Over-oiling usually means too many drops or skipping the final wipe.
Key facts
- Product: Atkinson Oil Co. Clipper Oil
- What it is: Food-grade clipper oil
- Made for: Hair, beard and animal clipper blades
- Not for: Food; spray-coolant use
- Who makes it: Atkinson Oil Co. is a brand of IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK; Made in Britain
Step by step
- Switch off and unplug (or remove the battery).
- Brush out the hair from between the blade teeth.
- Add a few drops where the maker's manual shows — usually across the blade teeth and at the sides where the blades slide.
- Run the clipper briefly to spread the oil.
- Wipe the blade with a soft, dry cloth.
- Oil again as often as the manual recommends.
Signs of over-oiling. Oil on the skin or coat, hair clumping on the blade, drips from the head. Use fewer drops and always wipe.
Signs of too little. The blade runs hot, sounds rough or pulls hair. Clean and re-oil.
Which clippers. Hair, beard and animal clippers whose maker calls for clipper oil. Do not use spray coolants and oil in place of each other unless the maker says so.
What "food grade" means here. It describes the oil grade. It is not an instruction to eat it or to use it on food.
Product link: Clipper Oil · Also see: Sewing Machine Oil.
Sources
Printed product label; Your equipment maker's manual