How to Care for Your Nail Files and Make Them Last Longer (2024)

Nail files are essential tools for any nail pro or beauty lover. They help shape, smooth, and refine your nails, whether natural or artificial. However, manicure files can also wear out, get dirty, or harbor bacteria if not cared for properly. To keep your nail files in good condition and make them last longer, you need to follow some simple steps to clean and store them. In this article, we will show you how to care for different types of nail files and how to choose the best ones for your needs.

Types of Nail Files

There are many types of nail files available on the market, but they can be broadly categorized into three groups: emery boards, metal files, and glass files.

Emery boards are the most common and affordable type of nail file. They are made of cardboard or wood coated with abrasive material, such as sandpaper or corundum. Emery boards come in different grits, ranging from coarse to fine, depending on the size of the abrasive particles. Emery boards are suitable for natural nails and can be used to shape and shorten them. However, emery boards are also porous and can absorb moisture, oil, and bacteria. They can also wear out quickly and become dull or rough.

Metal files are made of stainless steel or other metals with a serrated edge. Metal files are very durable and can last for a long time. They are also easy to clean and sanitize. Metal files are ideal for artificial nails, such as acrylics or gels, as they can cut through them quickly and efficiently. However, metal files are also very harsh and can damage natural nails if used incorrectly. They can also cause heat friction and vibration, which can be uncomfortable or painful.

Glass files are made of tempered glass or crystal with a finely etched surface. Glass files are very gentle and smooth on natural nails. They can seal the nail edge and prevent splitting or peeling. Glass files are also non-porous and can be easily washed and sterilized. Glass files are suitable for natural nails and can be used to shape and refine them. However, glass files are also more expensive and fragile than other types of nail files. They can break or chip if dropped or mishandled.

How to Clean Nail Files

Cleaning your nail files is important to remove any dirt, debris, or bacteria that may accumulate on them. Cleaning your nail files can also help extend their lifespan and performance. Here are some tips on how to clean different types of nail files:

Emery boards: Emery boards are disposable and should be replaced after every use or client. However, if you want to reuse them, you can try to brush off any loose particles with a nail brush or a toothbrush. You can also wash them with soap and water, but make sure to dry them thoroughly before storing them. You can also spray them with alcohol or disinfectant spray to kill any germs.

Metal files: Metal files are reusable and can be cleaned with soap water or alcohol. You can also soak them in a disinfectant solution, such as barricade or bleach, for at least 10 minutes. After cleaning, rinse them well and dry them completely before storing them. You can also sharpen them with a metal file sharpener if they become dull.

Glass files: Glass files are reusable and can be cleaned with soap water or alcohol. You can also boil them in hot water for about 30 minutes to sterilize them. After cleaning, rinse them well and dry them completely before storing them. You can also polish them with a soft cloth if they become cloudy.

How to Store Nail Files

Storing your nail files properly is essential to protect them from damage, moisture, or contamination. Storing your nail files properly can also help preserve their quality and effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to store different types of nail files:

Emery boards: Emery boards should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also store them in a plastic bag or a case to keep them clean and organized.

Metal files: Metal files should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also store them in a plastic bag or a case to keep them clean and organized. You should also avoid storing metal files with other metal tools or objects that may scratch or damage them.

Glass files: Glass files should be stored in a protective case or pouch to prevent them from breaking or chipping. You should also avoid storing glass files with other glass or hard objects that may scratch or damage them.

How to Choose the Best Nail Files

Choosing the best nail files for your needs depends on several factors, such as your nail type, your nail length, your nail shape, and your personal preference. Here are some guidelines on how to choose the best nail files for different purposes:

For natural nails: If you have natural nails, you should choose a nail file with a fine or medium grit, such as 180-240. This will help you shape and smooth your nails without causing too much friction or damage. You should also choose a nail file that is gentle and smooth on your nails, such as a glass file or an emery board.

For artificial nails: If you have artificial nails, such as acrylics or gels, you should choose a nail file with a coarse or medium grit, such as 80-180. This will help you cut and shape your nails quickly and efficiently. You should also choose a nail file that is durable and sharp, such as a metal file or an emery board.

For short nails: If you have short nails, you should choose a nail file with a fine or medium grit, such as 180-240. This will help you shape and smooth your nails without removing too much length. You should also choose a nail file that is narrow and flexible, such as an emery board or a glass file.

For long nails: If you have long nails, you should choose a nail file with medium or coarse grit, such as 100-180. This will help you shorten and shape your nails faster and easier. You should also choose a nail file that is wide and sturdy, such as a metal file or an emery board.

For square nails: If you want square nails, you should choose a nail file with a straight edge, such as a metal file or an emery board. This will help you create a sharp and clean line across the tip of your nails.

For oval or almond nails: If you want oval or almond nails, you should choose a nail file with a curved edge, such as a glass file or an emery board. This will help you create a round and smooth curve along the tip of your nails.

Conclusion

Nail files are important manicure tools for any nail pro or beauty lover. They can help you achieve beautiful and healthy nails with the shape and length that you desire. However, nail files also need proper care and maintenance to keep them in good condition and make them last longer. By following the tips in this article, you can clean, store, and choose the best nail files for your needs.

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