If you own a Braun 5 or 7 series which comes with a self cleaning dock.
Chances are you have bought the braun clean and renew cartridges.
Now these cartridges don't come cheap at about $5 per pack if you purchase 4 packs and they supposedly only last for 3 months a pack.
Don't get me wrong, these cartridges are extremely invaluable and can never be replaced by water.
not only does it clean your device, it also helps to lubricate the components which helps maintain its functionality.
It also helps sanitize the shaver for the next use and leaves a nice lemon scent on it.
I've also noticed a better shave and also less irritation using this cleaning solutions.
The only drawback is the amount of money you need to spend to get these.
However, if you follow these tips, you don't need to spend so much on these cartridges and still extend the shelf life of your shaver.
This is my cleaning habit for the past 2 years using this product and till date my shaver still looks as good as new because of these practices.
Cleaning the device Before popping the shaver into the cleaning dock, I have a habit to run the shaving head and to brush it lightly to remove the beard trimmings.
By doing so, you remove the hair which will prevent clogging in the self cleaning dock.
I have friends who don't do this and find their cleaning dock full of hair trimmings which can be hard to remove after a period of time.
Not only that, when the self cleaning goes to work, the old hair trimmings will get mixed with the solution and run through the unit.
Literally cleaning and dirtying the unit over and over again.
This can reduce the life of your shaver as well.
Cartridge life The clean and renew cartridges normally last between 3-4 months for me and I usually have to shave daily.
To save cost on this, When I am not using the unit, I will normally replace the top cap which you have to pop off before using the cartridge.
The solution is based on an alcohol based liquid.
Closing the cap will help stop the constant evaporation from happening when it is not in use.
This simple step takes only 10 seconds but people fail to do this because they are lazy.
I also only clean my shaver using the alcohol solution only 2 times a week.
AS a result, just one cartridge can last me between 7-9 months instead which is less than a dollar a month Cleaning the dock As mentioned in the previous point.
After months of cleaning your dock might have some hair particles or even some algae which can reside in it.
Clean the dock with a cloth thoroughly and dry it.
Failure to do so is like washing your hands in a mud puddle.
There are many other ways that you can save money by manual methods but I find the clean and renew cartridge to be the most effective solution in prolonging your shaver's life.
Especially with shavers that cost more than $150, you definitely want your shaver to last long and still provide you with a clean shave every time.