New to safety razor shaving? This beginner guide explains what a safety razor is, how to load a double-edge blade, and how to get a close, comfortable shave with Sord Blades double-edge safety razor blades.

What is a safety razor?

A safety razor is a reusable razor with a fixed head that holds a single double-edge blade. The head keeps the blade at a steady angle and leaves only a small part of the edge exposed, which is why it is called a safety razor. You replace only the blade, not the whole razor, so it is a simple, low-waste way to shave. Sord Blades are double-edge blades made to fit all double-edge safety razors.

What you need

  • A double-edge safety razor
  • Sord Blades double-edge blades
  • Warm water and a shaving soap or cream
  • A clean towel
  • A safe container for used blades, such as a blade bank or a sealed container

How to load a double-edge blade

  1. Open the head of your safety razor. Follow the instructions for your razor: some twist open, some unscrew into pieces.
  2. Hold the blade by its short, blunt edges only. Place it on the posts in the head, with the holes in the blade lined up.
  3. Replace the top cap, close the head, and tighten the handle until it is snug. Do not overtighten.
  4. Check that the blade sits evenly, with the same amount of edge showing on both sides.

Prep your skin

Wash your face with warm water, then work up a good lather with shaving soap or cream and apply it to the area you plan to shave. Warm water and lather help soften the hair and let the blade glide.

Shave with the grain

  1. Hold the razor by the end of the handle and let the weight of the razor do the work. Use light pressure and short, smooth strokes.
  2. Hold the razor at a low angle to your skin, about 30 degrees, and shave with the grain — in the direction your hair grows.
  3. Rinse the blade often under warm water to clear away lather and hair.
  4. For your first shaves, stick to one pass with the grain. You can re-lather and do a careful second pass once you are comfortable.
  5. Rinse your face with cool water, pat dry with a clean towel, and apply your usual aftershave or moisturizer.

Blade care and disposal

  • Rinse the blade after each shave and let the razor air-dry. This helps keep the stainless steel blade in good condition.
  • Change the blade regularly, when it starts to feel less smooth or to tug. The right time to change it depends on how often you shave and how coarse your hair is.
  • Used blades are sharp. Put them straight into a blade bank or a sealed container, keep the container out of reach of children, and dispose of it with your household waste when it is full, following your local rules.

Try the free sample first

Not sure if safety razor shaving is for you? Try 5 Sord Blades free — you pay only $2 shipping. Try 5 blades free — $2 shipping only. Loved them? Stock up in the Store: Silver, Golden and Platinum bundles of 100, 200 or 300 blades, with free shipping.