Barber clippers guards: discover all types of guard & their use

Barber clippers guards (also called attachment combs) are essential barber tools that determine the length of hair left after trimming. They ensure consistent and even cuts. They come in different sizes and materials to achieve various hair lenghts and suit diverse styles and preferences. In this blogpost we explain everything you need to know about clipper guards (or attachment combs). We will also explore the top-rated clipper guards, emphasizing their compatibility, durability, and unique features to help you make an informed choice.

Take a look at our range of clipper accessories. You'll find everything you need to develop your professional skills.

Summary

Barber clippers guards types: which one suits your style?
Barber clippers guards material: which one should you use?
Barber clippers guards lengths: how to pick the perfect size?
Barber clipper guards tips: how to use them?
Barber clipper guards: what are the key considerations to bear in mind when choosing them?
Barber clipper guard: how to maintain them?

Barber clippers guards types: which one suits your style?

Standard clipper guards

Standard barber clippers guards are fundamental tools in hair cutting, enabling professionals to maintain consistent hair lengths efficiently. Typically numbered from #0 to #8, each guard corresponds to a specific length, allowing for a range of styles from close buzz cuts to longer trims. These guards securely attach to the clipper's blade, ensuring uniform cuts and minimizing the risk of uneven results.

Specialty clipper guards

Beyond standard guards, specialty barber clipper guards offer solutions for more precise and tailored cutting needs like magnetic guards.

Utilizing magnets for attachment, they provide a stable and secure fit, preventing shifts during use. They are favored by professionals for detailed work requiring exact length maintenance.

Top clipper guards

Wahl offers a range of guards for barber clippers, that we call attachment combs, designed to enhance your grooming experience. Below are some top picks:

Wahl attachment comb set No. 1-8 black

Material: plastic
Compatibility: fits Wahl clippers
Features:
- Standard black combs.
- Sizes ranging from 3mm to 25mm.
Advantages:
- Professional look with uniform black design.
- Wide range of sizes for different styles.

Wahl attachment comb set no. 1-8 colored

Material: plastic
Compatibility: designed for Wahl clippers
Features:
- Color-coded combs.
- Sizes from 3mm to 25mm.
Advantages:
- Simplifies size selection with color coding.
- Versatile size options for various hairstyles.

Wahl attachment comb set in box 3-25mm

Material: glass and mineral-filled plastic
Compatibility: suitable for Wahl clippers
Features:
- Rounded comb teeth.
- Sizes from 3mm to 25mm.
Advantages:
- Enhanced durability with high-quality materials.
- Provides a pleasant cutting experience with versatility in styling.

Wahl premium cutting guides with poly bag

Material: glass and mineral-filled plastic
Compatibility: fits all Wahl full-size clippers
Features:
- Secure fit technology.
- Sizes range from 1.5mm to 25mm.
Advantages:
- Reliable performance thanks to a long-lasting fit on the blade.
- Durable with a large size range for versatile cutting lengths.

Barber clippers guards material: which one should you use?

The construction material of a barber clipper guard influences its durability and performance:

Plastic Guards: lightweight and affordable, they are easy to handle and reduce fatigue during extended use. Their non-conductive nature makes them safe for various cutting environments.
Premium Plastic Guards: mineral and glass fiber reinforced plastic, particularly durable and dimensionally stable.

Selecting the appropriate clipper guard is crucial for achieving the desired hairstyle and ensuring a smooth cutting experience. Whether opting for standard or specialty guards, understanding their specific applications and benefits will enhance your grooming precision and versatility.

Barber clippers guards lengths: how to pick the perfect size?

Manufacturers use a standardized numbering system for barber clippers guards, typically ranging from #0 to #8, though some brands offer guards beyond this range. Here's a breakdown of common guard numbers and their corresponding hair lengths:

Number	Size
#1	Leaves about 1/8 inch (3mm) of hair, suitable for very short buzz cuts.
#2	Leaves approximately 1/4 inch (6mm) of hair, offering a slightly longer but still short style.
#3	Results in about 3/8 inch (10mm) of hair, providing a conservative short cut.
#4	Leaves around 1/2 inch (13mm) of hair, often used for crew cuts and brush styles.
#5	Leaves 5/8 inch (16mm) of hair, suitable for longer crew cuts and taper styles.
#6	Results in 3/4 inch (19mm) of hair, ideal for longer, more conservative cuts.
#7	Leaves about 7/8 inch (22mm) of hair, often used for shaping and layering longer hair.
#8	Leaves 1 inch (25mm) of hair, suitable for trimming longer hair without significant length reduction.

It's important to note that actual hair lengths can vary slightly based on the clipper model and cutting technique.

Pro tip: Many clippers feature an adjustable lever on the side, allowing for minor modifications to cutting length without changing the attachment comb. Moving the lever adjusts the blades' position.

Barber clipper guards tips: how to use them?

First, you have to select the appropriate guard size. So when you cut hair, determine exactly the desired hair length you need and choose the corresponding guard. When in doubt, start with a longer one to avoid cutting too much hair initially.

Then check that you have attach it securely. It's important to ensure the guard snaps firmly onto the clipper to prevent it from detaching during use.
Before you start cutting, be sure that you understand hair growth patterns. As you must know, hair grows in different directions; cutting against the grain often yields a more even trim.
Finally, regulary clean and oil your clipper blades to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Maintening your equipment is the key. Check how to properly use an oil for barber clippers before using it.

By mastering the use of barber clipper guards and understanding their sizing, you can achieve precise haircuts tailored to individual preferences.

Barber clipper guards: what are the key considerations to bear in mind when choosing them?

Key considerations	Details
Compatibility	Ensure the guards fit your specific clipper model to prevent issues during use.
Material Quality	Choose durable materials like metal or high-grade polymers to withstand frequent use.
Size Variety	A diverse range of sizes allows for greater flexibility in styling and achieving desired hair lengths.
Special Features	Consider features like magnetic attachments for secure fitting or color coding for easy identification.

Investing in high-quality clipper guards enhances your grooming experience, ensuring precision, safety, and versatility in every haircut.

Barber clipper guard: how to maintain them?

Proper maintenance and hygiene of clipper guards are essential for ensuring precision, longevity, and client safety.

Remove hair clippings from the guards after every use. Use a small brush or compressed air to eliminate buildup that can affect cutting accuracy. For a deeper clean, wash it with warm water and mild soap, ensuring they are completely dry before storing.
Regularly check them for cracks, bent teeth, or signs of wear. Damaged clipper guards can lead to uneven cuts and discomfort for clients. If a guard is broken, replace it immediately to maintain professional results.
Store them in a clean, dry area to prevent damage. Avoid tossing them loosely into drawers where they can get scratched or cracked. A designated storage case or organizer helps keep them in top condition and ready for use.
Use disinfectants or 70% isopropyl alcohol to sanitize your attachment comb between clients to prevent bacteria infection and ensures a hygienic experience.

By following these steps, your barber clippers guards will remain in excellent condition, delivering precise and hygienic cuts every time.

Thank you for reading our article!

Africa, Middle East, India

Asia Pacific

European Countries

Latin America

North America