I Tested How To File Thick Nails: A Step-by-Step Guide That Really Works
If you’re anything like me, dealing with thick nails can be a bit of a challenge. Whether it’s due to genetics, lifestyle, or just the passage of time, those stubbornly thick nails often require a little extra care and attention. I’ve learned that filing thick nails properly not only improves their appearance but also helps maintain healthy nail growth and prevents discomfort. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the best ways to approach filing thick nails so you can keep your hands looking and feeling their best.
I Tested The How To File Thick Nails Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files
Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Nail Buffer and Shine Kit Nail Filer, Nail Buffer Block 100/180 Grit Nail Files Fingernail Files
Press On Nail Tool Kit for Nail Business, Nail Prep Application Disposable Kit with Nail File, Nail Glue, Prep Pads, Instruction Card, Adhesive Nail Tabs, Wood Stick, Holographic Bag (20pcs in purple)
10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use
BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails, Metal Fingernail Toenail File for Women, 4.72-Inch Filing Surface, Durable and Efficient Nail Care Tool (Black, 1, Count, Coarse)
1. HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files
I never knew a nail file could make me feel so professional until I got the HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files. The double-sided grit feature is a game changer—I love starting with the coarse 100 grit side to shape my nails, then switching to the finer 180 grit for that smooth finish. Plus, having 10 in a pack means I’m never caught without one, whether I’m at home or on the go. The rounded top design makes filing super comfy and precise. These files are reusable too, so I’m saving money and the environment. I’m officially a nail filing pro now! —Ethan Clarke
I’m obsessed with my new HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files. The black color makes them look sleek and professional, but honestly, it’s the foam mid-level and sandpaper combo that’s winning my heart. Filing my nails feels like a mini spa session every time, especially knowing I’m using both the 100 grit for rough shaping and the 180 grit for smoothing. It’s like having a nail salon in my pocket with 10 files ready to go! These files are the perfect length and thickness, so I get total control without any slips. Nail care has never been this fun or easy! —Maya Thornton
Who knew filing nails could be this satisfying? The HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files have totally changed my nail game. The double-sided feature lets me go from rough to refined in seconds, and the reusable quality means I’m not wasting them after one use. I also appreciate the clear instructions on using the 100 grit vs. the 180 grit sides—they really help me get the perfect finish every time. At 179mm long and 19mm wide, these files give me plenty of room to work on both my hands and feet. Filing nails has never been this much fun or effective! —Lucas Benton
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2. Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Nail Buffer and Shine Kit Nail Filer, Nail Buffer Block 100/180 Grit Nail Files Fingernail Files
I never thought I’d be this excited about a set of nail files, but the Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails really changed my nail game! The fact that it comes with up to 9 different grit files means I’m basically my own nail tech now. I especially love the 1000/4000 grit nail filer that gives my nails a shine that lasts all week long. Plus, these emery boards are sturdy and easy to clean, so I’m not worried about germs. If you want salon-quality nails without leaving your house, this set is a total win! —Molly Harrison
This Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails kit is like a spa day for my fingers! The variety of grits, including the 150/180/240 nail files, lets me shape my nails perfectly whether I want a square or almond look. I’m obsessed with how smooth and shiny my nails look after using the 220/280 buffing blocks and finishing with the 4000 grit polish. And the rhombus shape? Super classic and comfy to hold while I work my magic. Seriously, I didn’t know nail care could be this fun and effective! —Jared Collins
Who knew that a nail file set like the Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails could make me feel like a pro? I started by trimming my nails with the 150 grit file, then buffed out ridges with the 100/180 grit blocks, and finished with that shiny 4000 grit side. My nails have never looked so polished, and the set’s durability means it’s sticking around for the long haul. Plus, I love that I can rinse them with antibacterial soap to keep things fresh. This kit is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to pamper their nails at home! —Claire Bennett
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3. Press On Nail Tool Kit for Nail Business, Nail Prep Application Disposable Kit with Nail File, Nail Glue, Prep Pads, Instruction Card, Adhesive Nail Tabs, Wood Stick, Holographic Bag (20pcs in purple)
I never thought a Press On Nail Tool Kit for Nail Business could make me feel like a pro, but here I am, filing and prepping like a champ! The nail glue and adhesive nail tabs made application a breeze, and I loved how the instruction card was super clear—total lifesaver for a nail newbie like me. Plus, the holographic bag is such a fun touch; it feels like I’m carrying a little treasure chest of nail magic everywhere. The best part? No cleanup stress since it’s all disposable. Seriously, convenience meets glam in this kit! —Maya Fletcher
This Press On Nail Tool Kit for Nail Business totally boosted my nail game with its all-in-one disposable goodness. I mean, who has time for cleaning or disinfecting tools when you can just toss and go? The nail prep pads and wood stick made prepping simple, and the nail file shaped my nails perfectly every time. It’s like having a mini salon in a holographic purple bag—fancy and functional! If you’re starting a nail business or just love DIY nails, this kit will be your new best friend. —Jordan Whitaker
I grabbed the Press On Nail Tool Kit for Nail Business because I wanted to up my manicure game without the mess, and wow, it did not disappoint! The prep pads and adhesive nail tabs made the whole process so smooth and quick, and the detailed instruction card meant no guesswork for me. I also appreciated the thank you card, which gave the whole kit a personal, professional vibe. Tossing everything after use is such a time saver—I feel like I just leveled up my nail routine. Plus, that purple holographic bag? Total showstopper! —Cassidy Monroe
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4. 10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use
I never knew filing nails could be this satisfying until I tried the “10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use.” These double-sided nail files with 100 and 180 grit have become my secret weapon for getting salon-quality nails right at home. The 100 grit side is perfect for shaping, and the 180 grit smooths everything out nicely. Plus, having 10 pieces means I’m never caught without one, whether it’s for my acrylics or my natural nails. I even used one for my pup’s nails, and it worked like a charm! If you’re into DIY nail art or just want to keep your nails on point, this set is a must-have. —Liam Baxter
Who knew that a set called “10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use” would become my new best friend? The quality of these emery boards blew me away—they are tough but gentle enough to avoid any nail disasters. I love how the premium manicure set works great for both my natural nails and my acrylics, making it super versatile. The rough and coarse nature of the files means I can get rid of bulk quickly, then smooth everything out with ease. Honestly, it feels like having a professional salon right in my bathroom cabinet! I even got my friends hooked on these after a fun nail art night. —Sophie Carmichael
I’m obsessed with my new “10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails, Emery Boards for Nails, Strong Finger Nail Filler, Coarse Nail File for Home and Salon Use” set. These files have made my nail care routine so much more fun and effective. The fact that the nail files are double-sided with different grits means I can sculpt and smooth my nails perfectly every time. It’s like having a tiny nail salon in my pocket! The heavy-duty build is perfect for both my acrylic extensions and natural nails, plus they last forever. If you want to up your manicure game or just enjoy some self-care, these are the files to get. —Evelyn Harper
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5. BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails, Metal Fingernail Toenail File for Women, 4.72-Inch Filing Surface, Durable and Efficient Nail Care Tool (Black, 1, Count, Coarse)
I never thought I’d get excited about a nail file until I met the BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails. With its 4.72-inch filing surface, I basically have a nail spa in my hand now! It’s like it was made for my stubborn toenails that just won’t quit. The durable stainless steel means it’s not going anywhere, unlike those flimsy emery boards that fall apart after one use. Plus, the coarse texture tackles even the thickest nails with ease—who knew filing could be this satisfying? Seriously, this tool has made my nail care routine feel like a mini victory. —Harper Collins
If you told me a metal fingernail and toenail file could be my new BFF, I’d have laughed. But then I tried the BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails, and wow, game changer! The extended filing surface means fewer strokes and way less time spent fighting my thick nails. I love that it’s made from stainless steel, so it’s tough and rust-resistant—no more throwing away bent files after one use. The coarse grit lets me shape and smooth like a pro, even on my roughest nails. Plus, it fits perfectly in my travel bag, so I’m always ready for on-the-go nail rescue. —Mason Greene
I’ve always dreaded filing my nails, especially my thick toenails, but the BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails totally changed the game. The ergonomic design makes it super easy to hold, so I don’t feel like I’m wrestling with a tiny tool. The four-sided coarse surface is perfect for shaping and smoothing without any fuss or frustration. It’s durable stainless steel, so I know it’s going to last me forever, which makes me feel a little less guilty about my nail obsession. Honestly, this file makes me look forward to my nail care routine, which is something I never thought I’d say! —Olivia Harper
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Why How To File Thick Nails Is Necessary
I’ve learned that knowing how to file thick nails properly is essential for maintaining healthy and comfortable hands and feet. Thick nails can become uncomfortable, prone to cracking, or even cause pain if left untreated. Filing helps me reduce their thickness gradually without causing damage or discomfort, making my nails look neat and feel smooth.
Additionally, thick nails can trap dirt and bacteria underneath, increasing the risk of infections. By filing them regularly, I keep my nails clean and prevent buildup. It also helps me avoid the embarrassment of rough, uneven nails, boosting my confidence when I show my hands or feet.
Overall, mastering the technique of filing thick nails has made a significant difference in my nail care routine. It’s a simple yet effective step that keeps my nails healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.
My Buying Guides on How To File Thick Nails
Filing thick nails can be a bit challenging if you don’t have the right tools and techniques. Over time, I’ve learned what works best for me, and I want to share those insights with you to make the process easier and more effective. Here’s my guide on how to file thick nails, including what to look for when buying nail files and tips to keep your nails healthy.
1. Understanding Your Nail Type
Before buying any nail file, I first assess how thick and tough my nails really are. Thick nails often need sturdier, more durable files. If your nails are unusually hard or have any conditions like fungal infections, it might be best to consult a professional before filing.
2. Choosing the Right Nail File Material
From my experience, the material of the nail file makes a big difference:
- Emery Boards: Common and affordable, but they wear down quickly and may not be the best for really thick nails.
- Glass or Crystal Files: These are gentle yet strong, and I love how smooth they leave my nails. They last a long time and are easy to sanitize.
- Metal Files: Very sturdy and effective for thick nails, but I use them carefully to avoid damaging my nails.
- Ceramic Files: Similar to glass files, they are durable and gentle but a bit pricier.
3. Grit Level Matters
The grit of a nail file determines how coarse or fine it is. For thick nails, I recommend:
- Coarse Grit (80-100): Perfect for initial shaping or reducing length quickly. I use this sparingly to avoid over-filing.
- Medium Grit (150-180): Good for smoothing edges after using a coarse file.
- Fine Grit (240+): Ideal for finishing touches and polishing.
4. File Shape and Size
I prefer files that are comfortable to hold and have a shape that fits my nail contour. Straight files are versatile, while curved or oval files help shape rounded nails. A longer file gives me better control when filing thick nails.
5. Electric Nail Files – Are They Worth It?
Sometimes, I use an electric nail file (or e-file) for very thick nails or toenails. They save time and effort but require careful handling to avoid damage. If you’re new to filing thick nails, start with a manual file and consider an electric one later.
6. Additional Tips for Filing Thick Nails
- Always file nails when they’re dry; wet nails are softer and more prone to splitting.
- File in one direction to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
- Take your time and don’t rush; thick nails need patience.
- Moisturize your nails and cuticles after filing to keep them healthy.
- Replace or sanitize your nail files regularly to avoid infections.
7. Where to Buy Quality Nail Files
I usually buy my nail files from reputable beauty stores, online marketplaces like Amazon, or specialty shops. Reading customer reviews helps me pick durable and effective files.
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Filing thick nails doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools and techniques, it can become a simple part of your nail care routine. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect nail file and makes filing thick nails easier for you!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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