Blade Sizes

Clipper blade sizes follow a standardized numbering system used across all major clipper manufacturers (Andis, Wahl, Oster, etc.). The numbering is counterintuitive for beginners: higher blade numbers cut shorter, not longer. A #10 blade leaves 1/16 inch of coat, while a #4 blade leaves 3/8 inch. Snap-on comb attachments extend the range further, allowing groomers to leave longer lengths using the same clipper body.

The most commonly used blades in professional grooming are: #10 (1/16 inch) for sanitary areas, paw pads, and under mats; #7 or #7F (1/8 inch) for short body clips; #5 or #5F (1/4 inch) for medium body clips; #4 or #4F (3/8 inch) for longer body clips; and #30 or #40 (very close, surgical-length) for tight sanitary work or preparing skin for a vet. The "F" designation stands for "finish" or "full-tooth" and indicates a blade with more teeth for a smoother cut versus a skip-tooth blade of the same number.

For groomers, blade size knowledge directly translates to client communication and safety. When a client says "short but not too short," an experienced groomer can suggest a #4 or #5 and explain what that means in inches. When working on sensitive areas, knowing which blades are safe (and which are too close for thin skin) prevents clipper burn and injuries. Blade size charts should be posted at every grooming station for quick reference.