Double edge blades

Ultra-thin polished and non-stick coated stainless steel. Razor-sharp on both sides. Or on one side if it concerns a single edge blade. You simply mount the double edge blade between the head and the base plate of a safety razor. You can easily slide a single edge razor blade into a shavette. Also known as the open barber's razor.

Tip: you can easily break a double edge razor blades in half so you can use half for the shavette.

The stainless steel razor blades are processed in such a way that they do not corrode. The instruments to comfortably achieve a very smooth result. So take a real shaving brush in hand!

What are double edge Razor Blades?

A double edge razor is the authentic replaceable razor blade for the safety razor or a shavette. Unjustly forgotten due to the arrival of disposable cartridges. Such a double edge blade is the sustainable, comfortable, and much cheaper alternative to razor blades in that plastic cassette.

You know them: the disposables from Gillette. Compare them in this battle with a safety razor. Interesting outcomes. To put it mildly.

Funny detail: double edge blades are even used in the industry for artisanal cutting techniques. This shows that those ultra-thin very sharp blades are multifunctional.

Which double edge razor blades are the best?

This is often a personal choice. The double-sided razor blades come in many variations and qualities. The razor blades are produced in various countries and each brand has its own fanbase.

Double edge blades are packaged from 5 to 200 pieces. For a fraction of the price compared to the Gillette Fusion Pro disposable cartridges. Double & single edge blade razor blades are packaged in such a way that you can always use them sterile.

Sharpness of a double edge blade

The double-sided razor blades come in different sharpness levels. They are clearly classified on a scale from 1 to 5. If you are just switching to a safety razor, it is wise to choose a sharpness of 1-3.

This way you can get used to the shaving with these single razor blades in a safety razor. It requires a bit more technique to shave yourself well. But once you master it, you'll never go back to 'the light work'.

Tip: check our wet shaving step-by-step plan on how to best shave wet in the classic way.

Smoothness of double edge razor blades

The sharpness of a double edge blade is characteristic. But each type of blade also has a certain smoothness. A less sharp razor blade has a smaller cutting angle. More convenient if you are handling a safety razor for the first time. Clearly less aggressive than the sharper brother. Time to experiment.

The sharpest razor blades have a longer cutting angle and are for men who are used to smoothing the skin with a safety razor. These guys know the ropes and wouldn't have it any other way.

At least, you can always take the step to a traditional straight razor. Of course, we know many enthusiasts of shaving with the shavette. Always an option!

Which double edge razor blades to buy for your razor?

Buying double edge razor blades. Sometimes the wide variety can make it hard to see the forest for the trees. But let's help you get started by recommending a few established brands:

For example, the feather razor blades are very popular among many hardcore shaving enthusiasts. This brand is also frequently used by barbers. If you're a beginner, we would definitely recommend first purchasing derby razor blades. Choose the least sharp variants (1-3) to start testing.

Of course, we cannot ignore Gillette. King C was indeed the inventor of the safety razor and its double edge blades. It is their duty to have an extensive collection of double edge blades on the shelves.

Why buy double edge razor blades?

Of course, we don't want to force you into anything. But the author of this article shaved (far too) long with commercial disposable razors. Until I stood in the bathroom with a safety razor for the first time.

The full monty. So with the shaving brush, shaving bowl and of course, artisanal shaving cream. In combination with a slant safety razor, I taught myself to truly shaving for the first time. With a result never achieved before. Refined smooth and no shaving cuts.

Note: I did have those cuts, though. By navigating a bit too enthusiastically. But once a samurai? No problemo! And fortunately, there is such a thing as alum.

How do I shave with double edge razor blades?

You can easily load double edge blades into a safety razor. When you start shaving with it for the first time, we recommend starting with the entry-level blades that are not too sharp. With the safety razor, unlike the Gillette Cartridge, you don't need to apply pressure to the skin. Due to its weight, it glides effortlessly over the skin.

In general, you place the blade at an angle of 30 degrees on your face. Glide with the hair growth over the skin. Due to the resistance of the double-sided razor, you will naturally feel if you are shaving efficiently.

Tip: Want to work as safely as possible? Check out our article 'How to avoid the most common shaving mistakes'.

Maintenance of double edge razor blades

Dead simple. Rinse the safety razor with lukewarm water after the shaving and pat it dry. Even though safety razors or shavettes have a long lifespan, it's still handy not to store them in a damp bathroom.

How often should I replace double edge razor blades?

On average, you can certainly achieve a comfortable shave 5 to 7 times with a double edge razor. With some brands, even up to 10 times. It also depends on the type of beard growth. If you have thick and full beard hairs, the blade will wear out sooner than if you have less volume of stubble.

How do I dispose of used razor blades?

You not only shave much more comfortably with double edge blades, but you also contribute to a better environment. (Source: USA Today: "still, billions of plastic razors and refill blade cartridges get tossed in landfills each year.")

The only waste is the wafer-thin steel blade, which is perfectly recyclable. To store the used razor blades as easily as possible, use a razor dispenser. Stylish, isn't it?

Famous brands of double edge razor blades

We just mentioned the popular brands Derby, Feather, and Gillette, but there are, of course, more metalworkers producing the finest double edge blades. For example, Wilkinson, Muhle, and Rockwell Razors have effective collections of double edge blades in their assortment.

Check our full collection of double edge razor blades and choose, as many before you have, from a number of brands and get started with them. Then you'll naturally find out which type suits you and your safety razor best!

Tip: if you're going to experiment, also use a good shaving gel. Just see how comfortable and smooth you can get the skin.

Finally

If you choose real shaving comfort, you can't ignore a safety razor with the double edge blades. The result cannot be compared to the cartridge razor. With the latter, you may experience irritation, red sensitive skin, and ingrown hairs.

Additionally, if you also consider the cost and environmental aspect, you're convinced. Oh yes, the costs? A good double edge razor blade costs about 0.35 cents. You pay an average of €3.50 per piece (!) for a disposable Mach3 or Fusion blade from Gillette. In short, a classic double edge blade is pure cutting edge.

Last tip: do yourself a favor with a shaving set. You'll be as complete as Roger Federer.