How to Oil Your Shredder

Learn how to simply lubricate your shredder with Fellowes

Oiling a shredder is important to maintain the blades and to extend the life span of the shredder. Fortunately, it is simple to do once you know how to do it and it only takes a minute. Often people will wait until paper becomes difficult to shred or when their shredder jams. In reality, this is too late as the shredder’s performance is already starting to suffer and you might be damaging your machine. To keep your shredder working perfectly for years to come, we recommend lubricating your shredder whenever you empty the wastebin or at least twice a month.

What do I need to oil my shredder?

All you need is a good oil to get started! Do not use aerosol oil to oil your shredder. Such lubricants are petroleum-based and can pose a serious fire hazard. Use only vegetable oils such as Fellowes Paper Shredder Oil.

Step by Step Guide on How to Oil Your Shredder

Depending on the type of shredder you own, there are two different options.

Simple Steps to Oil your Shredder with a Lift-Off Head

Step 1

Set to OFF and apply oil across paper entry^*

*only use non-aerosol vegetable oil in a long nozzle container such as Fellowes Shredder Oil

Step 2

Run shredder in reverse for 2-3 seconds

Step 3

Repeat each time bin is emptied

Simple Steps to Oil your Shredder with a Pull-Out Bin

Step 1

Set to OFF and apply oil across paper entry^*

*only use non-aerosol vegetable oil in a long nozzle container such as Fellowes Shredder Oil

Step 2

Press and hold forward for 2-3 seconds

Step 3

Repeat each time bin is emptied

Lubricating your Shredder with Lubricant Sheets

As well as shredder oil, you can also maintain your shredder with lubricant sheets. Easy to use and designed to prevent paper jams, just like shredder oil, lubricant sheets are another option you can use to oil your shredder.

Simple Steps to Oil your Shredder with Lubricant Sheets

Step 1

Feed oil sheet into paper entry

Step 2

Once lubricant sheet is completely shredded, run shredder in reverse for 2-3 seconds

Step 3

Repeat each time bin is emptied

To achieve the best results with your Fellowes Shredder, we recommend using the Powershred Performance+ Lubricant Sheets, which are specifically designed for your paper shredder.

Find your Perfect Shredder

With this knowledge, hopefully you’re now able to find the best shredder for your needs. We’ve split our range into four categories to help you make your choice.

Shredders for the home

Shredders for the home office

Office & Departmental Shredders

High Security Shredders

Alternatively, discover the full range of Fellowes Shredders below.
Fellowes Shredders