Sometimes, making a difference feels like a big, complicated challenge. But often, the simplest habits have the biggest impact, especially when it comes to something as everyday as shaving.
As April is Earth Month, it's the perfect moment to pause and think about how the small things we do daily can add to something meaningful. If you enjoy traditional wet shaving - or even if you’re just curious - now’s a great time to see how looking after your shaving tools properly can help reduce waste and be kinder to the planet.
Wet shaving isn’t just about a close shave; it’s also a smarter, more sustainable way to go about your routine. Unlike disposable razors that fill up landfills with plastic, wet shaving tools are made to last and reduce unnecessary waste. But to get the most from them, you must care for your brush and razor correctly. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to keep your shaving kit clean and working well, safely dispose of used double-edge razor blades, and some simple swaps to make your shaving routine greener. Because clean tools mean a cleaner planet.
Why caring for your shaving gear makes a difference
It might sound obvious, but treating your razor and brush well is one of the easiest ways to improve your shave and keep your skin healthier. Clean tools last longer, work better, and stop germs from building up.
Quality shaving gear isn’t designed to be thrown away after a few uses; it’s made to be used for years. Taking care of your equipment means fewer cuts and less irritation, and keeps you from spending money on replacements and generating needless waste. At Blades & Whiskers, we’ve always believed in quality over disposable throwaways; proper care is key to that.
How to care for your shaving brush
Your shaving brush isn’t just for spreading foam - it builds rich lather and lifts hair for a smoother shave. If you want it to last, you need to keep it clean.
After every shave, rinse your brush thoroughly under warm water to wash out all soap. Leftover soap can break down the bristles over time and weaken your brush. Once a week, give it a deeper clean with a gentle soap or a diluted vinegar rinse - vinegar helps remove hard water deposits and kills bacteria without harming the brush.
Drying your brush right is just as important. Always store it upside down on a stand so water drains away and won’t collect at the base, where it can cause mildew. The Edwin Jagger shaving brush drip stand is a favourite for its simple, effective design and is available is small and large.
If you’re thinking about a new brush, we recommend the Simpson Chubby 2 Platinum with its soft synthetic hair for a bit of luxury, or the RazoRock Original Plissoft brush for a solid option that’s kind to your wallet. Both will give you great results and stand the test of time when cared for properly.
How to look after your razor
Your double-edge safety razor will need some TLC, too. After each shave, rinse it well under warm water to remove hairs and soap. If you can, take it apart to clean and dry it more thoroughly.
Once a month, soak your razor in warm, soapy water to break down any grime that has built up. Use an old toothbrush to get into the tight spots like the blade guards. Make sure your razor is completely dry before storing it. If there's any moisture trapped inside, it can cause rust, shortening its life.
Investing in well-made razors like the Merkur 34C, Feather AS-D2, or Edwin Jagger DE89 pays off. These are made to last, and with the proper care, they’ll be part of your routine for years.
How to dispose of blades safely in the UK
Used shaving blades are sharp and dangerous if thrown away without thought. They can’t go in your regular recycling bin - even though the metal can be recycled, it has to be handled safely. We recommend using a blade disposal case, like either the Feather Razor Blade Disposal Case or Rockwell Blade Safe. These keep used blades secure, protecting you and anyone handling the rubbish. Once your disposal case is full, take it to your local household waste recycling centre. It’s a simple step that helps keep people safe and ensures blades are recycled properly.
Simple eco-friendly shaving swaps
Switching to traditional wet shaving is already a big step towards a greener routine, but you can do even more by:
- Choosing safety razors over disposable or cartridge systems to reduce plastic waste.
- Using traditional shaving soap instead of aerosol cans. Soap bars and pucks last longer and don’t release greenhouse gases. Try something like Taylor of Old Bond Street Shaving Soap.
- Choosing natural brushes made from badger or boar hair, which biodegrade naturally, instead of synthetic ones.
- Buying razor blades, shaving soap and shaving cream in bulk to reduce packaging waste and the carbon footprint of deliveries.
At Blades & Whiskers, we carefully select products that marry tradition with sustainability, so you can shave well and feel good about it.
Small habits, big impact
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by environmental issues, but small, everyday habits really do add up. Traditional wet shaving already puts you ahead of the pack regarding sustainability, but looking after your tools, disposing of double-edge shaving razor blades responsibly and choosing eco-friendly products take it further.
We don’t just sell shaving gear at Blades & Whiskers - we support a way of life that values quality, care and community. By making these small changes, you’re joining a growing group of mindful shavers who care about themselves and the planet.
Start your sustainable shaving journey this Earth Month
Earth Month is a perfect moment to rethink your shaving routine. Caring for your brush and razor means they last longer and perform better. Safe blade disposal protects people and helps the environment. And choosing eco-friendly products means less waste and less plastic.
If you’re ready to switch things up or improve your routine, explore our range of razors, blades, brushes, soaps, and more. Have questions? Our team at Blades & Whiskers is here to help. Clean tools make for a better shave - and together, we can make a cleaner planet. Get in touch today and take your first step towards shaving that’s good for you and the planet.