Are you wondering when to replace your replaceable utility knife blade?
In this helpful guide, we reveal how often you should switch out the blade in your utility knives to ensure your tools stay sharp and effective with every use. We also provide instructions to ensure you replace blades properly and safely and share valuable tips to help you choose the right spare blades.
Read on to maintain clean cutting and enhance utility knife performance in your establishment!
When To Change a Replaceable Blade?
Utility blades last around two to three months on average. However, you might need to change your blade more often depending on how frequently you use it. Here are the most common signs that indicate it is time to switch out blades:
How To Change a Blade in a Utility Knife
Changing the blade on your utility knife handle is super easy! Here are 6 steps to ensure you switch blades safely and efficiently:
#1 Safety First
Before you replace or add any extra blades, there are some essential safety checks to do. Make sure you're wearing protective gear , including gloves, to prevent injury when handling new blades. You also need to check your utility knife is fully intact, with no signs of breakage or cracks on the handle.
#2 Locate and Press the Blade Release Button:
Find the blade release button on your utility knife (they are usually located on the side or top of the handle). Press and hold the blade release button to unlock the old blade. Keep your finger firmly pressed down on the release button until the blade is all the way out.
#3 Safely Dispose of the Old Blade:
Responsibly and safely throw away the used blade by placing it in a special disposal container or wrap it in heavy duty materials, like tape or thick paper. This will ensure the sharp edge is covered, so it doesn't injure anyone who handles the trash, or cause damage to receptacles .
You should also check how the blade can be disposed of - can it be recycled or dropped at a hazardous waste center?
#4 Insert the New Blade:
Press down on the release button, just as you did when removing the blade, and slide your new blade into the slot until you hear a click. Once the blade is locked in, you can release the button. Double check for any movement of the blade - if you notice the blade wobbling or sliding about slightly, it means it's not properly inserted.
#5 Test the Blade:
Before you put your refurbished utility knife to work, double check it works properly. Gently swipe the blade along a material to make a few cuts and ensure all is up to standard. This will prevent any mishaps and ensure you can dive straight into tasks without any interruptions.
#6 Secure and Store:
If your utility knife has a retractable blade, be sure to fully retract it after testing the blade out. This will promote safety while protecting the fresh blade from damage.
Ensure you store your utility knife safely in a designated space to prevent loss and accidents. Consider investing in a secure toolbox or organizer, such as the 16-piece Light-Duty Office Tool Kit by Great Neck , if you haven't got one already.
What Replacement Blade Do You Need?
Unsure of which replacement blade to choose? Here are the most popular types (with uses) to help you out:
Standard Utility Knife Blade: A versatile blade used for general cutting tasks, like opening boxes, cutting packaging, and trimming materials. Think this is the right blade for your business? Discover the Jiffi-Cutter Utility Knife Blades by Cosco .
Razor Blade: These blades are extremely sharp, making them ideal for high-precision cutting, such as stripping wires, trimming materials, and cutting out shapes.
Gutting Blade: Gutting blades are culinary tools designed for gutting game and fish.
Heavy Duty Blade: Heavy-duty blades, like the Heavy-Duty Utility Knife Replacement Blade by Stanley , are super durable and sturdy, making them perfect for cutting through tough and thick materials, like carpet, lino, and heavy-duty cardboard.
Rotary Trimmer Blade: These are specially designed for rotary trimmers. They offer precise and smooth cutting of paper, card, cardboard, and other thin materials. If you're looking for a rotary trimmer blade, check out the best-selling Titanium Rotary Trimmer Replacement Straight Blade by Westcott .
Scraper Blade: Scraper blades, such as the Replacement Blades for 4" Scrapers by Unger, are a must-have tool for carpenters and builders. They are perfect for removing residues from surfaces like paint.
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Browse our entire selection of premium replaceable blades in our Hardware, Tools, and Accessories collection, exclusively at Buy Direct.
Whether you work in construction, warehouses, factories, restaurants, or offices, we provide essential blades for every type of professional . Shop in bulk today and enjoy mega savings on leading brands , including Cosco, Stanley, Westcott, and many more!
FAQs:
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about replacement blades:
Can a Knife be Too Old to Sharpen?
Not necessarily! If you own a traditional knife with a fixed blade, don't throw it out just yet. Old knives can be sharpened using various tools , such as a whetstone, honing rod, or electric sharpener. By sharpening your old blade, you can prolong the lifespan of your knife.
If you're seeking a new utility knife with a fresh blade, save money and go for a replaceable blade knife. We have a wide selection of ergonomic and safe blade holder products and a vast range of sharp blades suited to all tasks . Whether you need to open boxes, trim paper, or cut materials, we have a knife handle and blade for every application. Shop in bulk online at Buy Direct!
How To Tell if a Blade is Dull?
If your blade isn't cutting through materials easily, keeps slipping, and leaves jagged edges, it's time to sharpen or replace it. Ensure you switch out blades as soon as you notice these issues to prevent further damage to materials and risk of injury.
If you need replacement blades, restock with Buy Direct . We have a wide selection of high-performance and cost-effective utility blades suited to a range of operations. Whether you work in an office, warehouse, restaurant, or factory, we guarantee you'll find the perfect blade suited to your needs. Save money by shopping in bulk today!