How to Keep Scissors Sharp: Care & Sharpening Tips

A sharp pair of scissors is a joy; a blunt one chews and frustrates. The good news: with a little care, quality scissors stay sharp for years. Here’s how to look after them.

Why Scissors Go Blunt

• Cutting the wrong materials (paper on fabric shears, tape, wire).
• Sticky residue on the blades.
• Rust from moisture.
• A loose pivot screw.

Everyday Care

• Wipe after use — remove dust, glue, and tape residue with a dry cloth.
• Keep them dry — moisture causes rust at the pivot.
• Use the right pair — don’t cut card, wire, or tape with fine craft scissors.
• Store safely — with blade guards or in a drawer, closed.

Simple Ways to Re-Sharpen

• Aluminium foil: fold a sheet several times and cut through it 10–15 times.
• Fine sandpaper: cut through folded fine-grit sandpaper a few times.
• Sharpening stone: for a proper edge, run each blade along a whetstone at its original angle.

Fixing Stiff or Loose Scissors

• Stiff: add a tiny drop of oil at the pivot and work the blades.
• Loose / not cutting at the tip: gently tighten the pivot screw.

Remove Sticky Residue

Wipe blades with a little cooking oil or rubbing alcohol to lift glue and tape gum, then dry.

When to Replace

If blades are chipped, badly rusted, or won’t hold an edge after sharpening, it’s time for a new pair. Quality scissors, cared for, rarely reach that point.

Find quality, long-lasting scissors at Peloradepot — free delivery across India, with 7-day returns.