Disposable razors are fairly cheap and definitely are convenient. However, they also pose some problems because they really can't be recycled (as shown by onlyblades.com) and can cut right through trash bags at the worst possible time. For these reasons, a person might want to take a razor apart before she disposes of it so that she can separate the sharp metal from the plastic. This isn't hard to do, since most disposable razors are pretty flimsy, but it needs to be done in the right way or else a person can end up with a nasty cut.

  • Disposable razors are fairly cheap and definitely are convenient.
  • This isn't hard to do, since most disposable razors are pretty flimsy, but it needs to be done in the right way or else a person can end up with a nasty cut.

Place a small candle on a flat surface such as a table. Clear the area of anything flammable, such as newspapers, and make sure the candle isn't near any fabrics (e.g., curtains).

Light the candle with a utility lighter.

Hold the razor head just above (but not in) the candle flame and wait for the plastic of the razor to start melting. Take the razor away from the flame.

  • Hold the razor head just above (but not in) the candle flame and wait for the plastic of the razor to start melting.

Use a pair of needle-nosed pliers to pry apart one side of the razor head. You should be able to pull the plastic off once you can grip it, but if needed, proceed to Step 5, reheating the razor head as needed.

Repeat Step 3. Repeat Step 4 with the opposite side of the razor head.

Turn the razor head so that the sharp edge of the blade is facing away from you in your non-dominant hand. Pull the blades gently up and straight out of the razor head with the pliers. You'll need to move the pliers away from you to do this, but this position reduces the risk of you accidentally pulling the blades back against you if they suddenly release.

TIP

If you desire to take apart a razor for the purposes of self-injury, please seek help from a professional. Self-injury is only a temporary fix, and people can and will help you through whatever problems you have.

WARNING

Razor blades may be small, but they're extremely sharp! Never grip the razor head with your bare hands. Instead, let the pliers be your fingers. Don't try to take apart any razor that has been used by someone other than you. Blood-borne diseases can be present on the blades and may be passed to you if you cut yourself by accident. Don't try to take apart any razor that is rusted. If you cut yourself with a rusty blade, you place yourself at risk for tetanus, a potentially fatal disease.