Braun Shavers Frequently Asked Questions

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Braun Shavers: Frequently Asked Questions

From foil maintenance to charging instructions, Braun answer all your electric shaver queries.

Published 28/10/2009

Braun answer your most commonly asked questions about rechargeable shavers and dry shaving.

What Is the Proper Way to Shave?

If you are new to dry shaving, it may take 14-21 days for your skin to adjust to the new shaving system. Braun recommends that you shave before washing as the skin tends to be slightly swollen after washing. Pre-shave use is not recommended with Braun shavers. A dry face will permit the foil to glide smoothly over the skin without irritating it. Braun recommends using a gentle touch when shaving. Hold the shaver at a 90-degree angle to the skin. Always let the shaver do the work. Make sure to stretch your skin and shave against the direction of the beard growth. Hairs do not grow in one direction so it is very important that you change direction as needed. Stubble is best cut when going in the direction of the hair growth. When you've finished shaving it is very important to clean the shaver. A poorly cleaned shaver can reduce the shaver's performance. Braun recommends replacing the shaver foil and cutter every 18 months or when the parts are worn to ensure optimum shaving results.

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How Do I Clean My Shaver?

Depending on the model of your shaver, take off the foil frame after every shave and lightly tap out the remaining whiskers. Do not clean the foil with the cleaning brush as this may damage it. Clean the cutter block with the cleaning brush. The protective cap should then be placed back over the foil and the shaver should be stored in a secure area. There are shavers without protective caps, which have to be stored in the hard case.

Series 7/Pulsonic is a cassette system – the cutter block can't be separated from foil. With the 360° Complete and the new Series 5/Contour Pro, the cutter block should not be brushed.

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Cleaning Tips

Activate automatic cleaning
Some of the top-of-the-range shavers feature the Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew unit. At the touch of a button, the shaver is cleaned, dried, and automatically charged – easily, conveniently, and hygienically.

Rinse under running hot water
All shavers with the word "washable" printed on the shaver are quickly and easily washable under running hot water. Using standard liquid soap can further enhance the cleaning effect.

Cleaning with the brush
After removing the shaver head, the cutter block can be effortlessly cleaned with the brush. Then, switch on the unit for 2 to 3 seconds. Caution! Never clean the shaver foil with the brush. This cleaning process is not possible for Series 7/Pulsonic, 360° Complete and Series 5/Contour Pro.

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Manual Cleaning of Shaver

If the shaver is not a model used with a Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew unit, the shaver can easily be cleaned manually. After every shave, switch the shaver off. Press the release button to lift the shaver foil. Do not remove the foil completely. Switch on the shaver for approximately 5-10 seconds so the shaved stubbles can fall out. Then take off the foil frame and tap out the remaining whiskers. Do not clean the foil with the cleaning brush as this may damage it. Clean the cutter block with the cleaning brush. The protective cap should then be placed back over the foil and the shaver should be stored in a secure area.

For a thorough cleaning (weekly), remove the shaver foil and tap it out on a flat surface. Using the brush, clean the cutter block and the inner areas of the head. About every four weeks, clean the cutter block with Braun cleaning agents. If your skin is very dry and you notice a reduced operation time of the shaver, apply a drop of light machine oil onto the shaver foil. For Series 7/Pulsonic, 360° Complete and Series 5/Contour Pro the Braun cleaning agent can be used. These models should not be brushed.

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How Long Should My Shaver Battery Last?

Generally, a shaver should last between three to five years if used and cared for properly.

Keep in mind, we do not recommend changing the battery yourself. A Braun authorized service facility will be able to complete this repair. To find one near you visit www.braun.com.

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How Can I Maintain the Capacity of My Electric Shaver?

You should follow carefully the hints in the instruction booklet. Before using it the first time, charge the battery fully. Then use it to shave normally, so that the battery is fully discharged. Then recharge the battery again to full capacity. Repeat this process of full discharging/full re-charging the battery at least twice a year but ideally you always use your shaver until it needs full re-charging. Shavers with Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew system have an automatic discharge/charge feature. Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew shavers like XP and Contour (Pro) don't have a battery care program.

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Can I Charge My Shaver Without the Clean&Renew Centre?

Yes, you can charge your shaver with the plug.

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Do I Have to Unplug After Each Cleaning, Or Can I Leave it in the Wall Socket All the Time?

You can leave the Clean&Charge connected at all times, although Braun recommends not leaving the Clean&Charge plugged into the wall without the shaver.

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Will the Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew Really Clean Inside the Foil and Around the Cutter Block, Without Removing the Foil? If So, How is the Stubble Removed?

Yes, the Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew will clean inside the foil and around the cutter block. The cleaning solution is pumped into the shaver head, then the shaver switches itself on to agitate the liquid around all the shaver head parts. This breaks down any grease or debris that is stuck to the foil or cutter block. Once free in the cleaning solution the stubble and debris literally 'flow' out of the shaver head around the sides of the foil frame, and through the holes in the foil. This is why you will hear the shaver switch itself on and off during the cleaning process.

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Is the Automatically Cleaned Shaver "Cleaner" Than A Manually Cleaned Shaver? What If You Compare to the "Washable" Shaver?

Our test results show that the Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew cleans the shaver to a level several times cleaner than when brush cleaned. We also know that the manual brushing cleans the shaver better than "washing" the shaver with water. This is because the skin residue – and especially grease – cannot be effectively broken down and removed with water only.

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How Long Does One Cleaning Cartridge Last?

Each cleaning cartridge should last for about 30 cleaning cycles. With daily use, the cleaning cartridge should be replaced around every 4 weeks.

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How Do you Know When to Change the Cartridge?

An indicator lamp on the Clean&Charge/Clean&Renew tells you when there are approximately 5 more cleaning processes left in the system. This should give you sufficient time to purchase a replacement cartridge.

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What's in the Clean & Renew Cleaning Fluid?

While the formula is confidential, we can tell you the fluid contains a form of alcohol, hygienic fluids, a lubricant and some aroma.

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Should I Oil My Shaver? Do You Need to Lubricate the Shaver After the Cleaning Process?

Yes. For dry cleaning only it is sufficient once or twice a year or if the battery capacity decreases significantly. For washable shavers, if water and maybe soap is used for cleaning, regular oiling is needed. If the shaver is cleaned under the tap every day oiling is needed once a week.

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Why Should I Replace the Foil and Cutter Block Regularly?

Those parts will wear out causing a decrease in shaving performance. After replacing them, your shave will be closer, smoother and quicker.

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How Long Will A Foil and Cutter Block Last?

These are precision parts that, in time, are subject to wear. This wear is dependent on your shaving method and beard type. The foils should be inspected visually for nicks, dents and wear patterns before each use. The cutter blocks are not self-sharpening and will wear out over time. To maintain optimal shaving performance you should replace these parts when worn. Generally, with good cleaning habits, the average person should get at least one year of use from a cutter block and foil.

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Which Foil and Cutter Block/CombiPack Will Fit My Shaver?

Check out the following link to check which replacement parts fit your shaver: Replacement Parts Finder.

Please replace your foil and cutter block every 18 months to ensure a close comfortable shave.

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Where Can I Find/Buy Spare Parts for My Braun Shaver?

If the part you require is not on the site or instore, please visit your local Electrical Beauty consultant and they will be able to order the part for you.

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I Lost My User Instructions/Manual – Where Can I Get A New One?

Please call our customer services on 0845 609 0055 to request a manual or visit www.braun.com for a complete list of instructions/manuals.

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Is It Possible to Use My Shaver Overseas?

Many Braun shaver models will adapt automatically to alternating current voltages (100-240V) and to frequencies of 50-60 Hz. Please check the voltage requirement for your shaver. Depending on the model you will find the requirements on the shaver's type plate, on the Smart-plug or on the adaptor. However, a plug adapter would be needed for the cord to fit into the wall outlet. These plug adapters can be purchased at most electronics and travel stores.

Click here to see boots range of travel adaptors.

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Is There A Worldwide Warranty for Braun Shavers?

Yes, every authorised Braun service centre in the world will accept a Braun shaver for a free-of-charge warranty repair as long as your model is distributed in the respective country.

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How Do I Know If My Braun Shaver is Still Under Warranty?

Braun warrants its shavers to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a certain period of time (as printed in the use instruction provided with the purchased product) from the date of original purchase. If the appliance exhibits a defect, Braun will, at its option, repair or replace the product. You must return the product to a Braun authorised service centre and provide proof of purchase.

This warranty does not cover finishes, nor does it cover damage resulting from accident, misuse, dirt, tampering, unreasonable use, servicing performed or attempted by unauthorized service agencies, or units that have been modified or used for commercial purposes. Foils and cutter blocks are not covered under the warranty.

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Read More Like This:
Braun: Introduction to Electric Shaving – From design to innovation, shaving giant Braun takes a look back at its brand heritage and reveals the benefits of an electric shave
Braun Grooming Product Overview

Related Categories:
Shavers

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