Do You Oil Hedge Trimmer Blades

A hedge trimmer is an essential tool for keeping your garden looking neat and tidy. However, it’s crucial to the regularly maintain the trimmer blades and oil them frequently. One question that often pops up is, “should I oil hedge trimmer blades?” The answer is a resounding “yes.” Otherwise, the tool won’t perform well, nor will it last longer.

In this article, I’ll explore the benefits of oiling the trimmer blades, which oil to choose, and how often should you oil hedge trimmer blades. Following these tips will ensure that your trimmer runs smoothly and your yard always looks spick and span.

Do You Have to Oil Hedge Trimmer Blades?

If you want your trimmer to provide a precise cut and last longer, oiling once a season or more often if you use the tool frequently is highly recommended. Although lubricating your trimmer blades may not be a strict requirement, it can be an essential step to ensure the device keeps running smoothly. Moreover, regular oiling can also prevent rust corrosion and reduce wear and tear.

Benefits of Lubricating Trimmer Blades

Here are the benefits of oiling trimmer blades in detail:

Minimizes Wear and Tear

Lubricating the trimmer blades reduces friction, thus minimizing wear and tear. This means they will remain sharper for a long time.

Prevents Corrosion

The trimmer is often exposed to moisture and other environmental elements that cause corrosion and rust accumulation. Lubricating the blades creates a proactive barrier that prevents any damage from contaminants and dampness.

Increases Trimming Efficiency

Oiling the trimmer blades regularly also increases their trimming efficiency. When they are well-lubricated, they provide a more precise and cleaner cut.

Improves Life Span

Lubricating the trimmer blades will maintain its overall performance, making it easier and safer to use. This also means your tool will last longer, and you can get more out of it without replacing the blades or the entire device. You’ll also save money on repairs and replacements.

Related: How To Lubricate Hedge Trimmer?

What Oil Is Best for Hedge Trimmer Blades?

When it comes to oiling the trimmer blades, choose a lubricant that is specifically made for this purpose. Don’t forget to go through the manufacturer’s manual to learn which type of oil suits your tool. However, there are some general-purpose oils that are safe to use. I’ve mentioned a few of them below:

Mineral Oil

It is a common type of lubricant used for oiling trimmer blades. Mineral oil is a light and clear oil that prevents corrosion and will extend the life span of the cutting edges.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oils like canola or soybean oil are also suitable lubricants for hedge trimmers. As they are non-toxic and biodegradable, you can safely use them around plants and animals. But they may not last longer than mineral and synthetic lubricants.

Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oils are engineered to provide maximum lubrication for trimmers. The best part about them is they have a longer life span than mineral oils, and you can withstand extreme temperatures. This makes them perfect to use in harsh weather conditions.

How Do You Lubricate Electric Hedge Trimmer Blades?

Once you choose a lubricant for the trimmer, it’s time to oil the blades. If you own an electric trimmer, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Unplug the Tool

Before applying the oil to the trimmer blades, make sure to switch it off and unplug its cord from the electric outlet.

Step 2: Wipe the Blades

Wipe the blades with the help of a soft cloth or a bristled brush to remove dirt and loose leaves or twigs.

Step 3: Apply Lubricant

Apply a small amount of lubricant and even it out on the cutting edges with the help of a cloth or a soft brush. Make sure to cover all the sharp edges.

Step 4: Clean Excess Oil

Using a rag, clean the excess oil from the blades. Leaving too much oil can attract dirt or debris, resulting in corrosion.

Step 5: Test Run the Tool

Plug in the trimmer and run it for a short time to distribute the oil evenly on the cutting edges. This will also ensure the blades are well-lubricated and the oil is fully absorbed.

Step 6: Store the Trimmer

Remove the trimmer from the socket, and once it cools down, store it in a cool and dry place. Avoid placing it in a damp or humid environment, leading to rust accumulation and corrosion.

Related: Can You Sharpen Hedge Trimmer Blades

How to Oil Petrol-Powered Trimmer Blades?

If you own a petrol-powered trimmer, follow the same steps for oiling its blades as mentioned above for the electric-powered one. But instead of the cord and electric outlet, it has a spark plug.

So make sure the trimmer is switched off and its engine cooled down before removing its spark plug from the engine. Or disconnect its spark plug wire to avoid potential incidents. Also, when you finish applying the oil, reinsert the spark plug or reconnect its wire to run the trimmer and ensure the oil is fully absorbed.

How to Oil Battery-Powered Trimmer Blades?

If you own a battery-powered trimmer, follow the same steps for oiling its blades as mentioned above for the electric-powered one. But instead of the cord and electric outlet, it has a battery.

So make sure the tool is switched off before you remove the battery. In addition, after applying the oil, reinsert the battery and run the trimmer to distribute the oil on its blades and ensure it is fully absorbed.

Can You Use WD40 on Hedge Trimmer Blades?

While WD40 is a widely used and versatile lubricant, I won’t recommend applying it on hedge trimmer blades. But why so? Find out below:

Dries Quickly

WD40, when applied on the trimmer blades, dries quickly, which kills the purpose of a lubricant. When it dries, it leaves the sharp edges unprotected, leading to increased friction and damage.

Harmful to Plants

WD40 lubricant is not designed to be around plants, so using it on trimmer blades can harm them.

Attracts Dirt

WD40 draws dirt and debris to the trimmer clogging the blades and rendering them inefficient. The dirt can also result in the buildup of rust and lead to corrosion.

Related: Can I Use WD40 to Lubricate Hedge Trimmer?

Is 3 in 1 Oil Good for Hedge Trimmer Blades?

3-in-1 oil is a multipurpose lubricant you can use on a variety of items, including trimmer blades. Here’s why it is an ideal choice for your trimmer:

Penetrates Rust

Rust can build up on trimmers that have not been oiled regularly or exposed to moisture. But 3-in-1 oil is formulated to penetrate deeply and remove rust accumulation.

Offers Long-Term Protection

3-in-1 oil is long-lasting. Therefore it can protect the trimmer blades for a long time, reducing wear and tear from friction and the need to lubricate the edges more frequently.

Prevents Dirt Accumulation

The best part about the 3-in-1 oil is it is viscous, which means it doesn’t attract dirt, thus preventing its buildup on the trimmer blades.

Safe for Vegetation

3-in-1 oil is also safe for vegetation, making it an ideal choice for the trimmer blades that come in contact with the plants. So you can apply it worry-free on the sharp edges.

FAQs

How often should you apply oil on trimmer blades?

The frequency of oil application on trimmer blades depends on how often you use the tool and the conditions in which you use it. If you use the trimmer frequently or in a damp condition, apply the lubricant after each use.

But if you use it in a dry condition or infrequently, oiling the blades once a season is sufficient. For long-term storage of the tool, applying the lubricant before stowing it away for an extended period is best.

What is the best lubricant for hedge trimmer blades?

3-in-1 oil or SAE20 mineral oil is ideal for lubricating the trimmer blades. But you can use any grade of mineral oil as they all work well on the cutting edges. However, make sure to read the manufacturer’s manual to learn which oil will be suitable to apply to your trimmer’s blades.

Do electric hedge trimmers need to be oiled?

Yes, you’ll need to lubricate the electric trimmer blades. Oiling the cutting edges prevents rust formation and wear and tear of the tool. It also averts dirt accumulation.

How do you lubricate a hedge trimmer blade?

Switch off your trimmer, wipe the dirt and plant sap from the blades with a soft cloth, and apply a light oil coating on them. Next, switch on the tool and run it for a few minutes to distribute the oil evenly on the moving surfaces. Switch off the device, and store it in a clean and dry place after it cools off.

Can I use WD-40 to lubricate a hedge trimmer?

You can use WD-40 to oil hedge trimmer blades, but it’s not recommended as it attracts dirt, dries quickly, and is not long-lasting.

Can I use chainsaw oil on a hedge trimmer?

No, using chainsaw oil on a trimmer is not recommended, as it has different properties and is only for chainsaw use. Where trimmer oil protects the blades against wear and tear, chainsaw lubricant is sticky and developed to work at higher temperatures.

Final Thoughts

Do you oil hedge trimmer blades? The answer is yes. Regular trimmer maintenance is critical to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. A vital aspect of this maintenance is oiling the edges, which offers numerous benefits, such as preventing rust, extending the tool’s life, and reducing friction and wear and tear.

However, read the instructions in the manufacturer’s manual to apply the oil properly and choose an appropriate lubricant. This will ensure your trimmer remains an efficient and reliable tool for trimming needs.