A nail file shapes and shortens nails by hand; the grit number on each side tells you how coarse it is, and a lower number cuts faster. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks zebra, white and wooden files, jumbo and mini files, washable files and buffers, sold singly, in packs and by the case, from ONME, Champion, Tango, Tropical Shine, Cre8tion and Mylar.
Types of nail files
How to choose a nail file
- Match the grit to the job. 80 and 100 grit are for acrylic and enhancements; 180 and finer are for natural nails, which a coarse file can fray.
- Single-use or washable. Porous files and buffers go home with the client or in the bin; metal files and files sold as washable can be cleaned between uses. Follow your local public health rules.
- Shape and size. Jumbo files cover more nail per stroke; mini and moon files fit kits and small nails.
- Buy by the pack. Many files come singly, in 50-packs and by the case, so the station never runs short.
Related: Nail buffers, Foot files, Cuticle pushers, Nail e-files, All hand tools
Guides
- Nail file grit guide: 80, 100 and 180 grit, and which file to use
- Nail Shapes Guide: Every Shape, Which Suits You and How to File It
Nail file FAQ
What do the two numbers on a nail file mean?
Each number is the grit of one side, so 80/100 means an 80-grit side and a 100-grit side. The lower the number, the coarser the abrasive and the faster it removes material: 80 is for shortening acrylic and 180 is for finishing natural nails.
Can I reuse a nail file on another client?
Only if it can be cleaned and disinfected. Paper, foam and wooden files are porous, so use each one on a single client and give it to them or throw it away. Metal files, and files sold as washable, can be scrubbed and disinfected between clients, as your local public health rules allow.
Which grit is best for natural nails?
Use 180 grit or finer on natural nails and file from the side toward the centre in one direction. Coarse 80 or 100 grit files are made for acrylic and enhancements and can fray or split a natural nail edge. Finish with a fine buffer to smooth the edge and surface.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.