How to Cut Thick Toenails

If you have thick and course toenails, clipping and cutting your nails effectively is a task usually performed by a nail technician, pedicurist or podiatrist. To groom thick toenails yourself, knowing the best way to trim your toenails easily without damaging the nail bed is a high priority. Use a few expert steps to trim and snip your toenails in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

Things You'll Need

• Large basin
• Liquid soap
• Warm water
• Large bath towel
• Emery board
• Nail trimmer
• Nail file

Instructions

1. Soften toenails in a large basin filled with liquid soap and warm water. Soak your feet for a minimum of 15 minutes.

2. Dry your feet with a large bath towel. Make sure the spaces between each toe and your toenails are completely dry.

3. File the edge of your toenails with a clean emery board. Shape and file toenails by moving the file from the outer corners of the tip to the center of your nails.

4. Trim the edge of the nail with a nail trimmer. Clip the edges of the nail straight across until you reach the desired length.

5. File jagged ends of your toenails with a nail file or emery board.

Tips & Warnings

• The Mayo Clinic's Web site suggests that you cut your nails with caution, especially if you are being treated for periperheral vascular disease or diabetes.

• Avoid cutting toenails in a rounded shape, which may result in painful ingrown toenails.

• If your thickened toenail is causing you pain or discomfort when cutting, see your physician for treatment.

References

• Consumer Reports Blogs: Q&A: The safe way to trim toenails?
• Mayo Clinic: How to Trim Thickened Toenails