Consumable Calculators

Replacement calculator

Razor Blade Replacement Calculator

Estimate how often to replace your razor blade or cartridge based on shaving frequency, hair type, and blade care habits.

14days

Typical

Your schedule

Under typical conditions, replace your razor blade about every 1–2 weeks.

Use the inputs below to tailor this estimate for your shaving frequency, hair type, razor, and blade care.

  • Daily shaving wears blades down fastest — expect weekly replacements.
  • Coarse or thick hair dulls edges faster than fine hair.
  • Rinsing and drying your blade after each shave extends its life.
  • Larger shaving areas (face + body) put more wear on each blade.

Recommended replacements

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Inputs

How many shaves does a razor blade last?

It depends on who you ask, and why:

  • Gillette says most people should change blades every 5–10 shaves, and that its 5-blade cartridges (Fusion5, ProGlide) can go about 20 shaves and 3-blade cartridges (Mach3) about 15.
  • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends changing the blade, or throwing out a disposable, after 5 to 7 shaves to minimize irritation.

Why the numbers differ

A blade dulls gradually. It keeps cutting for a long time, but a slightly dull edge needs more pressure and more passes, which is what causes razor burn and bumps. Gillette's counts describe how long a cartridge keeps cutting well; the dermatologists' count is set for your skin. If you get irritation, bumps, or ingrown hairs, follow the shorter count.

That's why the calculator weighs skin-related factors: coarse hair and larger shaving areas shorten the interval, and multi-blade cartridges lengthen it.

Signs the blade is done

Replace it when you notice any of these, whatever the count:

  • The razor drags or tugs instead of gliding.
  • You need several passes over the same spot.
  • Razor burn, redness, or bumps show up where they didn't before.
  • Visible rust or nicks on the edge.

Making blades last

Rinse the blade thoroughly after every shave and store it dry, out of the shower. Hair and soap residue left on the edge dulls it, and constant moisture speeds up corrosion.

FAQ

How many shaves can you get from a razor blade?

Gillette puts it at about 5–10 shaves for most people, and up to about 20 for its 5-blade cartridges and 15 for 3-blade. Dermatologists (the AAD) recommend 5–7 shaves to keep irritation down. If your skin reacts, go with the shorter number. Disposables are usually at the low end.

Does rinsing and drying the blade really help?

Yes. Rinsing clears hair and residue that dull the edge, and storing the razor dry, out of the shower, slows corrosion. Both help the blade stay sharp for more shaves.

How can I tell when a razor blade is dull?

Signs include tugging or pulling at hair instead of cutting cleanly, increased skin irritation or razor burn, needing multiple passes over the same area, and visible nicks or rough spots on the blade edge.

Are expensive cartridges worth it over disposable razors?

Multi-blade cartridges (3-5 blades) generally last longer per unit and give a closer shave, but cost more upfront. Disposables are cheaper per razor but need replacing more often. Safety razors offer the lowest cost per shave long-term.

Sources

Last reviewed .How these estimates are made.

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