Trimming Toenails

Let’s talk about cutting toenails ~ it’s such an everyday process, but it is so easy to make a mistake.

Did you know…it’s important to have separate clippers for hands and feet? Two reasons:

A) Toenails are thicker and broader, requiring a larger tool.

B) Separate clippers reduce the chance of cross-contamination of bacteria or fungal infection between hands & feet.

**Always wash the clippers in-between uses.

Fingernail clippers have a CURVED cutting edge; Toenail clippers have a STRAIGHT cutting edge.

When toenails are trimmed with curved clippers, there is a higher probability of ingrown nails. The use of straight clippers keeps the toenail in-line with the groove of the nail, not embedded within it.

For FLEXIBLE toenails, trim prior to soaking/showering…this keeps the nail from tearing or bending.

For THICK/DRY nails, clip after soaking or showering…this prevents shattering of the nail and prevents jagged edges.

ALWAYS clip in two or more cuts. Taking small bites with the clippers keeps the nail intact and allows a smoother transition across the free edge.

Always lightly file the nail after trimming with a fine grit nail file. Using a high grit file keeps the nail from peeling and smoothes jagged edges. It also rounds sharp edges and keep nails from poking into smaller toes.