1. Important Safety Instructions
Read all instructions before using the shredder. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Avoid Contact: Keep hands, jewelry, loose clothing, hair, and ties away from the paper entry slot.
- Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the shredder at all times. The patented Safety Lock feature can be engaged to disable the shredder for added protection.
- Power Source: Connect the shredder to a properly grounded wall outlet of the correct voltage (refer to specifications). Do not use extension cords.
- Flammable Materials: Do not shred flammable materials or use near flammable liquids or gases.
- Overheating: The shredder is designed for intermittent use. Continuous operation beyond the specified run time may cause overheating. Allow the unit to cool down as instructed.
- Foreign Objects: Do not insert metal objects, such as scissors or knives, into the paper entry.
- Maintenance: Unplug the shredder before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
2. Product Overview
The Fellowes LX50-DB is a cross-cut paper shredder designed for household and small office use. It provides enhanced security for confidential documents by shredding them into small particles.

Image 2.1: Front view of the Fellowes LX50-DB 9-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper Shredder.
Key Features:
- Cross-Cut Shredding: Shreds paper into 5/32" x 1-7/16" particles for P-4 security level.
- Capacity: Up to 9 sheets of paper per pass.
- Multi-Material Shredding: Capable of shredding paper, staples, paper clips, and credit cards.
- Safety Lock: Patented feature to disable the shredder for increased safety.
- Quiet Operation: Engineered to reduce noise during use.
- Continuous Run Time: Operates for up to 5 minutes before requiring a cool-down period.
- Waste Bin: 4.4-gallon capacity with a lift-off head for easy emptying.
3. Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the shredder from its packaging.
- Position: Place the shredder on a flat, stable surface. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit for ventilation.
- Waste Bin: Ensure the waste bin is correctly seated within the shredder housing. The shredder will not operate if the bin is not properly in place.
- Power Connection: Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Powering On/Off
- Locate the control switch on top of the shredder.
- Set the switch to the 'ON' (Auto) position to activate the shredder. The shredder will be in standby mode, ready to shred.
- To turn off the shredder, set the switch to the 'OFF' position.
4.2 Engaging the Safety Lock

Image 4.1: A hand pressing the Safety Lock button on the shredder's control panel.
- To engage the Safety Lock, slide the lock mechanism to the locked position. This will disable the shredder and prevent accidental operation.
- To disengage, slide the lock mechanism to the unlocked position.
4.3 Shredding Documents

Image 4.2: A hand feeding multiple sheets of paper into the shredder's entry slot.
- Ensure the shredder is powered on and the Safety Lock is disengaged.
- Insert up to 9 sheets of paper (standard 20lb bond) into the paper entry slot. The shredder will automatically start and stop.
- For credit cards, staples, or small paper clips, insert them into the designated paper entry slot.
- Do not force paper into the shredder. If the shredder struggles, reduce the number of sheets.
4.4 Continuous Run Time and Cool-Down

Image 4.3: A woman operating the shredder in an office, illustrating its quiet operation.
- The LX50-DB is designed for a continuous run time of up to 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes of continuous shredding, the shredder will automatically enter a cool-down period of approximately 30 minutes to prevent overheating.
- During the cool-down period, the shredder will not operate. Wait until the unit has cooled down before resuming shredding.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your shredder.
5.1 Emptying the Waste Bin

Image 5.1: Demonstrates lifting the shredder head from the waste bin for emptying.
- Unplug the shredder from the power outlet.
- Lift the shredder head off the waste bin.
- Empty the shredded material from the bin into a suitable receptacle.
- Replace the shredder head securely onto the waste bin.
5.2 Oiling the Shredder
Oiling the shredder blades regularly is crucial for maintaining performance and preventing jams. Use Fellowes shredder oil or a vegetable-based oil in a squeeze bottle.
- Apply a thin line of oil across the paper entry slot.
- Run the shredder in reverse for 10 seconds to distribute the oil.
- Repeat this process after every 30 minutes of accumulated shredding or when performance decreases.
5.3 Cleaning the Shredder
- Unplug the shredder.
- Wipe the exterior of the shredder with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Periodically clean the sensors in the paper entry slot to ensure proper auto-start functionality.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your shredder, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shredder does not turn on. | Not plugged in; Safety Lock engaged; Waste bin not properly seated; Overheat protection activated. | Check power connection; Disengage Safety Lock; Ensure waste bin is correctly inserted; Allow shredder to cool down for 30 minutes. |
| Paper jam. | Too much paper inserted; Paper folded or crumpled; Blades are dull/unlubricated. | Switch to reverse mode to clear the jam; Reduce paper quantity; Oil the shredder blades. |
| Shredder stops during operation (red light on). | Overheat protection activated. | Allow the shredder to cool down for 30 minutes. |
| Reduced shredding performance. | Blades require lubrication; Waste bin is full. | Oil the shredder blades; Empty the waste bin. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | LX50-DB |
| Shred Type | Cross-Cut |
| Security Level | P-4 |
| Sheet Capacity | 9 sheets (20lb bond paper) |
| Particle Size | 5/32" x 1-7/16" |
| Shreds Materials | Paper, Staples, Paper Clips, Credit Cards |
| Waste Bin Capacity | 4.4 Gallons (approx. 198 shredded sheets) |
| Continuous Run Time | 5 minutes |
| Cool-Down Period | 30 minutes |
| Product Dimensions | 8.69 x 12.19 x 15.81 inches |
| Item Weight | 11.2 pounds |
| Color | Black |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official Fellowes website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
Fellowes Contact Information:
- Visit the Fellowes Store on Amazon for product information and support resources.
- Refer to the documentation included with your product for specific warranty terms and contact details.





