How to keep your nails clean: Follow the instructions for fingernails and toenails

Your nails need the same care as your skin, but many of us neglect them. Learn simple tips for cleaning your fingers and toes.

Answer this question honestly: When was the last time you thought about cleaning your nails? If your answer is almost certainly no, you’re not alone, except to remember to schedule your next manicure or pedicure! Let’s be honest, nail care is important even if you don’t take care of your fingers and toes. Think about it: You use your fingers and toes for everyday tasks, from opening a lid to digging in the ground to moving around with your feet. This can make your nails prone to dirt, bacteria, dead skin, and other unwanted things. If you want to stay away from diseases, try to practice good nail care that will make your nails look better. If you have ever wondered how to wash your fingernails and toenails, this article is for you!

How to clean your fingernails?

Dirt, oil, or grime can get stuck under your nails. Here are some things you can do to clean your nails:

1. Cut your nails short

Rounded and short nails are less prone to dirt and grime. For convenience, you can cut your nails in the morning or evening after showering. Remember to cut them into short, manageable lengths. Try to keep your nail clippers personal to reduce the risk of infection.

2. Use soap and brush when washing your nails

Whenever you wash your hands, don’t forget to use foam under your fingernails to reduce bacteria on your fingertips. You can use antibacterial soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer when washing your hands to reduce the number of bacteria on your hands.

3. Dry your hands

Wet areas become breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. Drying your hands thoroughly can reduce the likelihood of nail infection and even prevent water from softening your nails and making them brittle.

4. Don’t forget to moisturize

Just as it’s important to moisturize your hands or skin, your nails and cuticles are no exception. Use a moisturizer to keep your nails healthy and flexible.

5. Wash your hands with warm water

Using warm water (not too hot, not too cold) will dry your hands and arms more than putting them directly into hot water.

6. Wear work gloves

Wear rubber gloves whenever possible when working around the house. They will protect your nails from further damage due to the hard work you can do at these jobs.

How to clean under toenails?

Just like you do almost everything with your hands and fingers, your toes should be given the same attention. They are responsible for carrying you and even if you walk from room to room at home, the area under your toes can collect all kinds of dirt. To prevent this, you can follow some tips to clean under your toes.

1. Wash and scrub feet

Don’t forget to wash your toes every day. Wash them with soap and water. You can use a loofah, sponge or cloth to clean your toes properly.

2. Try soaking feet

If you’re not used to bathing every day, consider soaking your feet in a bowl of warm water and soap. This can help loosen and remove dirt from under your toes. Then wash and dry your feet thoroughly, just like your nails. You can use warm water and Epsom salt or apple cider vinegar for about fifteen minutes to soften your skin and nails.

3. Trim your nails

After you shower or bathe your feet, your nails will be softer and easier to cut. If you have severe nail problems, it is best to have your toes trimmed by a podiatrist (foot doctor).

4. Dry your feet properly

Unlike fingernails, toes can be difficult to reach depending on your desire. If you can’t reach under your toes, it’s easy to dry your feet properly: Place a towel on the floor and place your toes on the towel to dry any water between your toes. Wet feet can attract fungal infections, so dry them thoroughly.

5. Moisturize your feet and toes

You can moisturize your feet the same way you moisturize your hands. Let the foot cream dry before putting on socks, and apply it evenly over the entire foot.

6. Wear shoes and socks

Do not walk barefoot, walk barefoot only when necessary. You should wear shoes and socks to properly protect your feet from infections. Change your socks every day and apply corns to your feet if you sweat a lot.

Summary

Regular nail and foot care helps keep nails healthy, clean and beautiful. Call your doctor if you notice anything unusual, such as redness, swelling, or nail color. Sometimes these are signs of an underlying problem.