UNIVERSITY
Shared bathrooms, early lectures and a tight budget. Here’s how to keep a decent shave without overspending.
Student life is hard on a shave. You’re sharing a bathroom, short of time before a nine o’clock lecture, and watching every pound. A good routine doesn’t need to cost much, but a few habits make a real difference.
Why Uni Shaving Is Different
Refills are the ongoing cost of a razor, so choosing wisely matters more than the handle. See the £2-a-week shave.
There’s little shelf space and plenty of dampness, so a compact setup that dries fast is ideal.
Early starts leave a few minutes at most, which is when mistakes and nicks happen.
Sharing a razor with a flatmate can pass on germs. Keep yours to yourself.
Three Things to Get Right
Start with a starter kit, then choose refills on a schedule you control so you aren’t paying for blades you don’t need. See subscription vs supermarket.
Action: Compare the price per cartridge.Even a quick borrow can pass on germs, especially if either of you nicks yourself. Keep your own razor and don’t lend it.
Action: Keep it in your room, not the bathroom.A razor left wet in a damp bathroom isn’t at its best. Rinse it, shake it dry and store it somewhere dry. See how to clean your razor.
Action: Rinse, shake, store dry.A Quick Morning Shave
Splash your face with warm water, or shave at the end of your shower, to soften the stubble.
Apply shaving cream or gel. It protects skin far better than water or soap alone.
Shave with the grain, rinsing the blade often, with no pressure. See how to shave properly.
Rinse with cool water, pat dry and moisturise before you leave.
Student Mistakes vs the Better Way
✗ The Common Mistakes
- Borrowing a flatmate’s razor
- Using the same blade for months
- Dry shaving in a rush
- Leaving the razor wet on the sink
- Buying the cheapest pack with expensive refills
✓ The Better Way
- Keeping your own razor
- Changing cartridges when they dull
- Using warm water and shaving cream
- Rinsing, shaking dry and storing it dry
- Checking the cost of refills first
Not sure when to swap a blade? See how often to change your blade. Want the full price picture? Take a look at our subscription page.
- Premium handle with a quality rubber grip
- Pivoting action head
- Strip with vitamin E and aloe
- Free UK delivery
What customers say
“Excellent product, handle has a real weighty and quality feel”
“My now razor of choice”
“Very good quality yet reasonably priced”
Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews. Read them all on Trustpilot.
Frequently asked questions
You can start for £9.99 with the SmartShave starter kit. If you want regular refills, the monthly plan is £24.99 and you can change, delay or cancel at any time.
It’s best not to. Sharing a razor can pass on germs, particularly if either of you has a nick. Keep your own.
SmartShave delivers free in the UK. Check that your halls can accept parcels, and give a delivery address where someone can receive it.
Yes. Start with the £9.99 starter kit, which includes a premium handle. You can change, delay or cancel at any time for free.
A student shave is about low running costs and good habits. Compare the price of refills, never share a razor, and keep it clean and dry between shaves.