AnswerThe truth is, most hair clippers work exactly like scissors -- two metal surfaces glide past each other while tightly pressed together, and the crossing sharp edges cut through whatever they are designed for. If of a good quality, scissors that are used properly are self-sharpening - think of a chef using the metal wand (actually a de-burring device) to sharpen knives. Metal sharpens metal, or at least in this case. And, clipper blades are likely made out of tough, high-carbon steel, which stays sharp - if properly maintained.

That said, you need to first find the problem that is causing the blades to lose their sharpness. Most likely, the blades have not been oiled, have sat and corroded, or they have been used to "clip" something besides hair. Clippers are usually designed so that they can be taken apart for small repairs and maintenance - there should be one or two screws holding the stationary blade in place. Remove these screws and disassemble the cutting head, remembering the order and placing of each part.

First, clean all the loose parts by filling a small dish with 90% isopropyl alcohol (the more expensive one in the alcohol/first aid section) and soaking the parts in that. Rub them briskly with a soft cloth to remove any dirt, corrosion, or old grease. Check between the blade teeth that they are not clogged with any debris. If you feel the need to sharpen the blades at this point, do so by placing the blade flat on a fine-grade sharpening stone (with a drop of oil) and gently but briskly, keeping the blade flat, grind it in one direction. Do this about 5-10 sweeps. Then, repeat in the other direction (do not go back and forth - always sharpen one edge at a time!)

After this, take the two pieces of blade, inspect them to make sure they are "cleanly" sharpened, and wipe them again with the alcohol. After making sure that all the innards are completely clean, re-assemble the cutting head. Make sure that the blades are straight and centered - this is very important! - and at the correct displacement at the end (usually only a matter of a centimeter or so - two much space and there isn't enough surface-against-surface to cut all the hair, which might have been the problem in the first place.) After getting the blades properly aligned and staight, tighten the head screws as tight as you can.

Place about three drops of a light=grade oilon the blades - 3-in-one oil works, and hydraulic jack oil is great too. Plug them in, let them run together for a while to get lubricated and to de-burr themselves, and test them on some hair. Hopefully they will work now!

Ok, if they don't, then you most likely need to do one of three options, depending on how much you paid for the clippers. If they are a good brand (like Oster) and were pricey, you should be able to go to any beauty supply store and either buy or order a new blade set. Keep in mind that blades can be pricey - but if it's a reliable clipper brand, a new blade is a good investment.

Another option is to have the blades professionally sharpened. Check around for a blade-sharpening service - sometiems they are non-local and you have to ship the blades to them. But tif it's an expensive set of clippers, sharpening may be a good, economical option.

If the clippers are NOT a good brand, or were cheap when bought, or seem to be low quality, you are probably best to just buy a new set. Most major department stores carry a variety of clippers - spend your money wisely on a dependable, simple set of clippers. Do not go for the lesser brand's expensive clippers with lots of "functions" unless you are positive about the quality. In the long run, a very simple set of clippers is probably better- cutting, and longer lasting, than a comparable-priced set with lots of do-dads. Also remember to buy clipper oil!

And with the new clippers, follow the manjfacturers instructions, keep them clean and oiled, and you should have a good set of clippers to last a long time.

5 YEARS - Fusion blade lifeI just turned 40 and had to give back a present a family member had already given me years before...

OK it was almost 5 years ago (and still the razor I was given still works. The Gillette Fusion Power Brrrrrrrr razor still works. When I ask my mates how long the blade lasted they all have different time scales. I still win as I'm still using the original blade on my Gillette Fusion since xmas 2007.

I keep telling peeps but they don't believe me. I know you guys can help as it would not be financially beneficial.

I have a smooth shave with a blade I got in 2007. Why should anyone listen to your adverts sayini you need to spend £7.99 every month to get the best shave?

So why don't you advertise that we should change the bade before the 5yr period is up?