How to Clean a Toddler's Fingernails

Your toddler is into everything, from dirt and pudding to flowers and toothpaste. With all that activity, he is bound to get dirty fingernails. Simply washing his hands doesn't always get rid of the dirt under his nails. Help your toddler practice good hygeine by teaching him how to clean under his fingernails.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soft bristled toothbrush (baby)
• Soap

1. Allow your toddler to wash his hands with soap and warm water. This will get the rest of his hands clean and ready for cleaning under the fingernails.

2. Wet the bristles of the soft-bristled baby toothbrush and rub a little soap on it. Don't use too much--a tiny dab will do.

3. Work the soap into a lather with your index finger or thumb.

4. Ask your toddler to hold out his hands over the sink, with fingers outstretched.

5. Scrub the toddler's fingertips with the soapy toothbrush, taking care to send some bristles gently under the fingernails.

6. Rinse his soapy fingertips in warm water. Inspect the nails carefully. All dirt should be removed. If you still see a lingering dirty spot, brush that fingertip again until it is gone.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to clearly designate which toothbrush is for nails. Better yet, don't even store it next to the other toothbrushes.
• Keeping your toddler's fingernails short will reduce the amount of dirt that can collect there.
• You can also use a nail brush for similar results. However, a toothbrush may seem more fun to the toddler, especially if it is a character toothbrush they like.