Nail Files - Reuse or Replace?

A common question asked by many nail techs is, "can I reuse my nail files, or do I need to replace for each client?" 

This will depend on several factors, I have listed these below.

Are your nail files made from quality paper? Surmanti Nail Files are made from the best quality paper with a thick centre for durability. This means they can be washed and disinfected multiple times.

Are you using a Hospital Grade Disinfectant? Surmanti Disinfectants are hospital grade, there are 3 products available - Ready To Go, Instant Disinfect and Concentrate Disinfect.

Ready To Go - A premixed solution that contains hospital grade ingredients to kill bacteria and viruses.

Instant Disinfect - A premixed solution of alcohol and Hospital grade ingredients to kill bacteria and viruses, with a 20 second kill time - great for use on metal tools, tables and implements that require a fast cleaning solution.

Concentrate Disinfect - A concentrate disinfectant. Dilute 10mls per 1L of water to create Ready To Go disinfectant or add to your foot spas to kill any bacteria or viruses that could be in the spa.

What area of the world do you live in? Certain areas in USA have very stringent criteria around reuse or replace. In New Zealand, certain cities have different regulations to others, however there are no rules in New Zealand that state you must replace for every client; therefore it is entirely your choice whether you reuse or replace.

Now that we have covered the factors above, let's talk about the "how to clean".

How to Clean and Disinfect your tools and files? The first thing to note, is that you MUST use a clean and disinfected file/tool for each client, this is not optional. Examples of tools - Manicure brush, files, primo stones, metal pushers, foot spas - Any tool you have used on a client.

To Clean - Make a bowl of hot soapy water. Using a disinfectable manicure brush, thoroughly wash each file/tool on both sides with hot soapy water, lay each item on a clean dry towel.

To Disinfect - Take your choice of hospital grade disinfectant and spray each item thoroughly on both sides, allow to dry completely on a clean towel. Once dry place in a clean container for use. Ensure metal tools are not left wet, this will cause them to rust.