Eco-friendly razors: safety razors, refill blades and cost per shave

Three kinds of razors

• Double-edge safety razor: a reusable metal handle that takes loose, thin double-edge blades. Blades are small and inexpensive per blade, and the handle is the main cost. They take a little practice.
• Cartridge razors: a handle with proprietary replacement heads. Heads are made for specific handles, so you are tied to one brand, and prices per head differ a lot.
• Single-blade and disposable razors: low in price at first, and often replaced whole. Some brands have refill systems or metal handles with replaceable blades.

Our angle: compare the cost per shave, and count the handle once

Sticker prices mislead here, because a pack of blades and a pack of cartridges contain very different amounts of shaving. Divide the price of a pack by the number of blades or heads to get the price per blade. Then estimate how many shaves you get from one blade, which depends on your hair, your skin and how you care for the razor. Divide to get the cost per shave. Add the handle once, spread over the number of shaves you expect to take with it. Compare systems on the same number.

1. Divide the pack price by the number of blades or heads.
2. Estimate the shaves per blade from your own use.
3. Add the handle price spread over its expected shaves.

Safety and disposal

• Used razor blades are sharp. Store them in a sturdy container with a lid, such as a metal tin, until you can dispose of them as your local rules direct. Do not put loose blades in the trash or the recycling.
• Some places have sharps disposal programs, and some companies offer take-back or recycling programs. Check what is available near you.
• Replace a blade that feels dull. A dull blade is harder to use.
• Keep razors out of reach of children.
• If shaving causes lasting irritation, stop and ask a dermatologist or doctor.

Buying tips

• Try a small pack of blades before buying a large one, since blades feel different from brand to brand.
• Check whether the handle is metal, and whether the head can be replaced separately.
• Compare subscriptions with the cost per blade in stores.