How to Oil a Paper Shredder

Things You Need:

• Paper shredder oil
• Sheet of paper

Regular use of paper shredders creates paper dust that can dry out components, dull the blades, clog the machine and burn out the motor. However, with proper oiling and maintenance, a paper shredder can last for years.

Oiling a shredder can be accomplished using one of two quick methods. The paper method limits excess oil to the paper, reducing the chance of it splattering when you turn the machine back on. This method is more common than the second and can be used with all kinds of shredders. The paperless method may be less common, but it is just as effective at removing dust buildup from the blades of the shredder. Whichever method you choose, read the manufacturer's instructions before oiling the shredder and be sure to use manufacturer-approved lubricant, as the wrong oil can damage the machine.

The Paper Method:

1. Place a sheet of paper on or above a surface that will not be marred or damaged should you spill oil on it.

2. Apply the manufacturer-approved oil to one side of the paper in a wide zigzag pattern across the whole face of the page to ensure sufficient coverage. Do not saturate the paper with oil.

3. Turn the shredder on and run the oiled piece of paper through the shredder. As the paper shreds, the oil that has been absorbed by the paper will lubricate the blades. The motion of the blades will distribute oil so the shredder continues to operate smoothly.

4. Feed a few more papers into the shredder to absorb residual oil from the cutting assembly.

The Paperless Method:

1. Set the shredder to manual mode so you can control the direction of the blades and the amount of time the blades are in motion.

2. With the paper shredder turned off, squirt a solid line of oil into the paper entry lengthwise across the paper-shredder blades.

3. Start the paper shredder in reverse, allowing it to run for 10 to 20 seconds before stopping the blades. This will evenly distribute the oil to all parts of the cutting assembly.

4. Return the shredder to automatic mode. Then feed two or three sheets of paper into it to absorb the excess oil from the machine.

Tip:

1. How often you should oil your paper shredder depends mostly on how much you use it. Office shredders that see heavy use every day will need to be oiled several times a week, while home machines used occasionally need be oiled only a few times a year. Cross-cut shredders will require more frequent oiling than other paper shredder varieties because they have more blades and create much more paper dust. If you're not sure which one is best for you, read our guide on picking the right shredder for your office.