How to Disinfect Manicure Instruments at Home
It is vital to sterilize manicure instruments before and after each use. Even with an at-home nail kit, contaminated tools can cause bacterial and fungal infections that are unsightly, painful and sometimes, fatal. Cosmetology boards set high standards for licensed manicurists to follow in their salons and these techniques can be implemented at home as well. There are several methods of cleaning and sterilization. Do a cursory cleaning after each manicure and a deep-clean monthly to keep tools safe. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Hospital-grade disinfectant
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Detergent
- Small pot
- Zipping plastic bags
Instructions
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Sterilize manicure instruments after each use in an EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal and pseudomonacidal. This disinfectant can be found in beauty supply stores. Immerse the tools in the disinfectant for 10 minutes.
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Disinfect foot tubs or basins after each use with a bleach solution. Make a 1-to-10 solution by mixing one part bleach with 10 parts water. Using gloves, rinse the basin with the solution to disinfect. If necessary, scrub with a detergent to remove any dirt or debris.
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Use a boiling method of sterilization once a month to disinfect all manicure instruments. Designate one pot for sterilization to prevent cross-contamination with food. Submerge the tools in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drain the tools and allow them to dry.
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Store sterilized manicure instruments in an airtight, zipper-sealed bag to keep them from being exposed to dirt and bacteria. Be sure tools are completely dry before storing them. If waiting more than a couple of weeks before the next manicure, sterilize the tools again in the disinfectant before use.
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References
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