Having healthy feet is essential for overall wellness. Keeping your toenails trimmed with the proper tools will help you stay on top of foot hygiene and reduce your risk of infection. Knowing how to safely use toenail clippers can also help you keep your feet looking presentable and feeling comfortable. Read below for a step-by-step guide on how to properly use toenail clippers so that you can maintain healthy feet.
1) Gather the Right Tools
To get started, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You’ll need a pair of sharp, clean toenail clippers specifically designed for feet and a nail file or emery board for smoothing any rough edges after clipping. Make sure both tools are thoroughly cleaned before each use to prevent bacteria from spreading into open cuts or wounds caused by improper trimming.
2) Soften Your Nails Before Trimming
Before using your toenail clippers, your nails must be softened first. This will make them more pliable and easier to cut without splitting or breaking them — which can increase your risk of infection if not done carefully. Soaking your feet in warm water for 10 minutes beforehand should do the trick!
3) Cut Nails Straight Across
Using slow, steady movements, cut straight across each nail at an angle just above the skin line, following the natural shape of the nail. Going too low can cause ingrown toenails; going too high can cut into the fleshy part at the edge of the nail bed. It can be helpful to hold the skin of your toe with one hand and use the other hand to guide the clipper precisely along the edge of the toe as you cut – this will give you better control over where they end up and help you avoid accidentally nicking yourself while trimming.
4) File the edges smooth after trimming
Once each nail has been trimmed to a suitable length, take out your emery board or file and smooth down any jagged edges left by the clipper blades. This is important not only because it looks neater, but also because it helps prevent the formation of hangnails, which, if left untreated, can lead to further complications such as infection in the future!
5) Clean & disinfect your tools afterwards
Finally, once all the nails have been trimmed, filed and shaped – take time to sanitise all the tools used during the process, including those pesky little corners where dirt tends to accumulate (ie: inside blades etc). This extra step will ensure that no unwanted bacteria are left behind to potentially cause harm down the line when used again next time!
By following these five steps to the correct use of toenail clippers, you’ll ensure that you’re taking proper care of your feet while avoiding the risks associated with improper grooming techniques, such as infection. With regular care through safe hygiene practices such as those outlined here today – you’ll be sure to keep those piggies looking neat, tidy and, most importantly, happy!
