Switching from a traditional razor to a double-edged safety razor is not only sustainable, it’s surprisingly easy. As part of my Sustainable Swaps Series, this post will help you make the Sustainable Swap to a safety razor, changing just one thing to make a big impact on your personal waste footprint. Still not ready to switch to try a safety razor? Read on for a new middle ground razor I’m testing, and for free ways to recycle your single-use razors! 

Check out my Sustainable Swaps Series for more easy, Sustainable Swaps!

*UPDATED MARCH 2024 for how to recycle disposable razors and blades.*

but first, recycle your disposable razors and blades–for free!

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY A SAFETY RAZOR

Summer is here, meaning warmer temps, shorter shorts, and more shaving. Chances are, your current razor is partly or completely disposable. While disposable razors are convenient, the waste they generate really adds up. 

An EPA estimate from 1990 stated that the US produced 2 billion throwaway razors and blades annually. This figure has likely grown, since the US razor market hit $2.7 billion in 2021. 

If you shave regularly, safety razors present a great opportunity to make a small tweak in your routine for a big impact on your waste.

how to use a safety razor

I started using a double edge safety razor about 5 years ago, and have never looked back. The handle is reusable–you just replace the blade as needed– and the blades themselves are recyclable! They’re also cost-effective: a double-edge safety razor will cost you about $20 on Amazon, and last for years. Mine lasted about 5 years until it fell from the bathroom shelf and snapped. A pack of refill blades will cost about $10 for 50 blades, or 20 cents each. 

The safety razor might seem intimidating at first, but just go slowly until you get comfortable, and you will quickly love this razor!

 

 

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safety razor shaving Tips

Starting with a new razor will feel a bit like it’s your first time shaving again, but with practice, you will get the hang of it in no time. 

To make the process as smooth as possible, follow the acronym, LEGS:

1. Lather and Exfoliate: exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, then lather up with your favorite cream or soap.
2. Go gently and slowly. The weight of the razor alone is often enough pressure.
3. Start simply: avoid challenging areas like your ankles or knees until you’ve gotten the hang of using the razor. 

With practice, you’ll soon become a pro– just like you did with a disposable razor.  

safety razors and blades

 I use Shark razor blades, but you may like to tray this sampler pack of blades to find your favorite!

To lather and moisturize before shaving, you can use your favorite soap, or a cream like this one from Eos. They have a partnership with Terracycle; you can send in the product for free recycling! 

Traveling with a safety razor

When traveling with a safety razor, be advised that TSA will not allow the blades in a carryon bag, but they are allowed in checked luggage.

recycling your blades 

When you’ve used a blade, it can be recyled (yay!) but not in your curbside bin. If your city doesn’t offer stainless steel recycling services, search for a manufacturer in your area that works with scrap metal; chances are they can take the blades and process them, along with any other scrap metal you may have around the house. 

As you’re collecting used blades to be recycled, store them in a safe, secure location so that children, pets, and other family members can’t be accidentally hurt by them. I keep mine in either old medicine bottles with locking lids, or in an old salt and pepper container, stored out of reach.

 

 

smooth sailing

If you’re trying a safety razor for the first time, congrats! You can feel good about making a Sustainable Swap that reduces waste. 

Go slowly, and experiment: if you don’t like a certain blade, try another brand. Find what works for your hair type, thickness, and preferences. 

Have you ever used a safety razor before? Do you have tips you’d like to add? A favorite brand? Drop me a line in the comments below. 

 Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.. I would never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use, and the income helps me run my site!