If your shredder is grinding, jamming, or running louder than usual, the fix is often a few drops of the right lubricant. Fellowes shredder oil is specifically engineered for paper shredders, helping reduce friction, prevent jams, and extend machine life. This guide covers everything from the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS) ratings to step-by-step application, product variants, and pricing. Whether you maintain a home office shredder or manage high-security industrial units, you’ll find clear, practical information here.
Below, you’ll learn how Fellowes oil is classified for safety, which bottle size fits your needs, how to apply it correctly, and what mistakes to avoid. We’ll also break down technical specs, compatibility, and where to buy at the best price.
Fellowes Shredder Oil SDS Safety Classification
Fellowes paper shredder oil carries a low-hazard profile, making it safe for routine use in homes and offices when handled properly.
OSHA and Regulatory Status
According to the official SDS from Fellowes, Inc., the product is not classified as hazardous under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910). It also does not meet hazardous classification criteria under CFR 1910. This means no special handling permits or storage requirements apply under normal conditions.
The oil is not food grade and is not NSF rated, so it should never be used on food-contact surfaces or ingested.
HMIS and NFPA Hazard Ratings
The product’s risk levels are minimal across all major rating systems:
- HMIS Ratings: Health 0, Flammability 1, Physical Hazard 0, Personal Protection 0
- NFPA Ratings: Health 0, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0
A flammability rating of 1 means only a slight fire risk. The oil must be preheated above 446°F (229°C) to ignite, well beyond any normal shredder operating temperature.
Manufacturer and SDS Details
- Manufacturer: Fellowes, Inc.
- Address: 1789 Norwood Avenue, Itasca, IL 60143-1095, USA
- Contact Phone: 630.893.1600
- Country of Origin: United States
- SDS Effective Date: March 4, 2015
Fellowes Shredder Oil Product Variants
Fellowes offers two primary bottle configurations, each designed for different usage volumes and shredder types.
1 oz Precision Performance Oil
This compact bottle is ideal for home offices and light-duty machines.
- Volume: 1 oz (30 mL)
- Container: Compact bottle with precision tip
- Best For: Standard strip-cut and small cross-cut shredders
- Key Benefit: Drop-by-drop control prevents over-lubrication
The precision tip allows targeted application across the feed throat without mess, making it perfect for users who shred occasionally.
12 oz High Security Industrial Oil
Designed for high-capacity, micro-cut, and continuous-duty shredders, especially those equipped with automatic oilers.
- Volume: 12 oz
- Container: Squeeze bottle with extended nozzle
- Nozzle Benefit: Reaches deep into feed throats without disassembly
- Part Numbers: FEL3505701, 3505701, FLW35250, 35250, 255255
- UPC Codes: 043859598830, 00077511352508 (14-digit GTIN)
- Shipping Weight: 0.8 lb
- Product Weight: 0.75 lb
The extended nozzle ensures oil reaches cutting blades directly, improving coverage and reducing maintenance time.
Technical Specifications and Physical Properties
Fellowes oil is a synthetic blend engineered for stability, heat resistance, and clean performance.
Viscosity and Temperature Performance
- ISO Viscosity Grade: 25
- Viscosity Index: 107 (excellent stability across temperature changes)
- Specific Gravity: 0.9133 – 0.9168
- Pour Point: -18°C (0°F) — remains fluid in cold environments
- Flash Point: 446°F (229°C) — high resistance to ignition
This range means the oil won’t thicken in winter or thin out in summer, ensuring consistent lubrication year-round.
Appearance and Composition
- Color: Light amber
- Oil Type: Synthetic blend
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; formulated without harmful chemicals
- Residue: Minimal, non-gummy formula prevents dust buildup
- Material Compatibility: Safe for Fellowes plastics and metals
Unlike vegetable or generic oils, Fellowes oil doesn’t leave sticky residue that attracts paper dust, a common cause of jams.
How to Apply Fellowes Shredder Oil
Proper application is critical. Too little oil leads to friction; too much causes mess and feeding issues.
Step-by-Step Application Process
-
Turn Off and Unplug the Shredder
Always power down and disconnect before oiling. -
Locate the Feed Throat
Find the paper entry slot where documents are inserted. -
Apply Oil Across the Cutters
– 1 oz bottle: Apply 2–3 drops across the width of the feed opening.
– 12 oz bottle: Use the extended nozzle to squeeze a thin line of oil from one side to the other. -
Run the Shredder to Distribute Oil
Turn the machine on and run it in reverse (if available) or forward with a few sheets of scrap paper. This spreads oil across blades and rollers. -
Wipe Excess Oil if Needed
If oil pools or drips, wipe gently with a dry cloth.
Recommended Oiling Frequency
- After every bin emptying — best practice for standard use
- Every 15–20 minutes of continuous shredding — critical for high-volume jobs
- When noise increases or jams occur — immediate sign of dry cutters
Common Oiling Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the right product, improper use can reduce effectiveness or damage your shredder.
Over-Lubrication Problems
Excess oil can:
– Soak into paper stacks, causing feeding issues
– Attract dust and form gummy buildup
– Leak onto desks or floors
Stick to 2–3 drops or a single pass of oil across the throat.
Why Substitutes Like WD-40 or Vegetable Oil Fail
- WD-40 is a degreaser, not a lubricant. It strips existing oil and can degrade plastics.
- Vegetable or mineral oils break down over time, leaving sticky residue that worsens jams.
Fellowes oil is specifically formulated for shredder mechanics. Using alternatives may void warranties and cause long-term damage.
Shredder Compatibility
Fellowes oil works with a wide range of machines, but it’s especially recommended for advanced models.
Supported Shredder Types
- Fellowes Powershred® models (all series)
- Strip-cut, cross-cut, and micro-cut shredders
- High-security P-4, P-5, and P-7 level machines
- Models with automatic oilers (refill reservoir with 12 oz bottle)
Universal Use Across Brands
While designed for Fellowes units, the oil is safe and effective for most major brand paper shredders. Its neutral synthetic formulation makes it a reliable universal choice.
Performance Benefits of Regular Oiling
Routine lubrication directly impacts performance, noise levels, and equipment lifespan.
Reduce Paper Jams
Paper dust sticks to dry blades and rollers, causing slippage and jams. Oil creates a slick barrier that repels debris.
Extend Shredder Lifespan
Blades stay sharper longer when friction is minimized. Well-maintained machines can last years longer than neglected ones.
Lower Operating Noise
Dry shredders grind and squeal. Proper lubrication results in noticeably quieter operation, ideal for office environments.
Prevent Overheating
Friction generates heat. In continuous use, unlubricated motors and gears can overheat and trigger thermal shutdowns. Fellowes oil’s high flash point helps manage heat and maintain performance.
Pricing and Where to Buy Fellowes Shredder Oil
Fellowes shredder oil is widely available online and through office supply retailers.
Current Pricing (2024)
| Quantity | Price | Cost Per Unit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 x 12 oz | $19.99 | $19.99 |
| 6-pack | $62.46 | $10.41 |
| 12-pack | $105.00 | $8.75 |
Bulk purchases offer significant savings for businesses with multiple shredders or high-volume needs.
Retail Availability
- Amazon, Staples, Walmart, and Office Depot carry both 1 oz and 12 oz versions
- Petra Systems lists FLW35250 at $7.99 (likely wholesale pricing)
- Some listings are drop-ship items with direct-from-distributor fulfillment
Look for UPC 00077511352508 or part number 35250 when ordering the 12 oz bottle.
Storage and Shelf Life
Fellowes oil has a long shelf life when stored properly.
- Store upright in the original container
- Keep away from extreme heat such as direct sunlight or radiators
- Use within 3–5 years for best performance
Thanks to its high flash point and stable synthetic base, the oil won’t degrade quickly. Seal the cap tightly to prevent contamination.
Troubleshooting When Oil Doesn’t Solve the Problem
If your shredder still jams or overheats after oiling, consider these possibilities.
Is the Oil Reaching the Blades?
With the 1 oz bottle, drops may not penetrate deep enough. Switch to the 12 oz bottle with extended nozzle for better blade contact.
Are You Using Enough?
For heavy-duty shredding sessions lasting 15+ minutes, pause every 15–20 minutes to reapply. Continuous use demands frequent oiling.
Could the Machine Be Worn Out?
If oiling no longer improves performance, internal components may be worn. Contact Fellowes support or consider replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fellowes Shredder Oil SDS
Is Fellowes shredder oil hazardous according to the SDS?
No. According to the official Safety Data Sheet, Fellowes shredder oil is not classified as hazardous under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910). It has an HMIS Health rating of 0 and Flammability rating of 1, indicating minimal risk under normal use.
What is the flash point of Fellowes shredder oil?
The flash point is 446°F (229°C). This high temperature means the oil is highly resistant to ignition, even in overheating scenarios. It must be preheated above this threshold to catch fire.
Can I use WD-40 instead of Fellowes shredder oil?
No. WD-40 is a degreaser, not a lubricant. Using it can strip existing oil from the blades and degrade plastic components inside the shredder. Fellowes oil is specifically formulated for shredder mechanics and is the recommended choice.
How often should I oil my Fellowes shredder?
Oil your shredder after every bin emptying for standard use. For continuous shredding sessions lasting more than 15 minutes, pause every 15–20 minutes to reapply. Oil immediately if you notice increased noise or jamming.
Is Fellowes shredder oil food grade?
No. The product is explicitly not food grade and is not NSF rated. Keep it away from food preparation surfaces and store it out of reach of children and pets.
What is the viscosity grade of Fellowes shredder oil?
The oil has an ISO Viscosity Grade of 25 and a Viscosity Index of 107. This means it maintains stable flow across a wide temperature range, from a pour point of -18°C (0°F) up to its 229°C flash point.
Key Takeaways for Using Fellowes Shredder Oil Safely
Fellowes shredder oil is a low-hazard, non-toxic synthetic lubricant designed specifically for paper shredders. Its SDS confirms it is not classified as hazardous under OSHA standards, with minimal health and flammability risks. The oil’s high flash point (446°F), stable viscosity index (107), and non-gummy formula make it superior to generic substitutes like WD-40 or vegetable oil.
For best results, choose the 1 oz precision bottle for home use or the 12 oz industrial bottle with extended nozzle for high-capacity machines. Apply 2–3 drops across the feed throat, run the shredder to distribute the oil, and repeat after every bin emptying or every 15–20 minutes of continuous use.
Next step: Check your shredder’s manual for oiling recommendations, then order the correct Fellowes oil variant to keep your machine running quietly and jam-free.
