Buy nail files – glass, sapphire, metal and ceramic

The best nail file is the one that suits your nails: for sensitive or natural nails, fine glass files are ideal, while for stronger nails, durable metal or sapphire files are a better choice. For an overview, see our guide The best nail file.

Natural nails: fine glass files, ceramic or fine sapphire files. Hard nails: medium grit, sapphire or metal. Artificial nails: coarser files designed specifically for that purpose. The grit should always match the material.

A glass nail file files very gently, seals the nail edge and will not cause splitting. It is washable, easy to disinfect and barely wears down – so it is especially worthwhile with regular use. All models: glass nail files.

A sapphire file has a grainy coating on both sides and is the durable classic from Solingen – sturdy enough even for firmer nails. Find our models under Nail files.

A buffer file smooths and polishes the nail surface in several stages – for natural shine without any nail polish.

For natural nails, fine glass files, ceramic or fine sapphire files are ideal. They smooth the nail edge without roughening it and help prevent splitting. Coarse metal files are less recommended for natural nails.

For hard or thick toenails, files with a medium to slightly coarser grit are suitable. Sapphire or high-quality metal files remove material in a controlled way without unnecessarily damaging the nail. It is important not to file too coarsely or hastily even with hard nails.

With babies, safety comes first. Extra-fine grit and soft materials prevent injury, allowing tiny nails to be gently shortened without leaving sharp edges.

Coarse foot files as well as callus shavers & rasps are suitable for calluses. Our guide Removing calluses: shaver, rasp or file? explains which tool suits which situation.

For natural nails, a medium to fine grit is ideal, as it will not cause splitting. For thick nails, it can be coarser; a fine side smooths the edge at the end.

Filing in only one direction is gentle on the nail edge. Filing back and forth can roughen the nail layers and increase the risk of splitting. A steady motion from the outside toward the middle produces smoother edges and healthier nails.

The healthiest approach is gentle care: soft filing with fine grit (for example a glass nail file), not cutting too often with nail clippers or nail nippers, and avoiding strong pressure. Regular moisturizing keeps the nail structure healthy in the long run.

Glass and metal files can be cleaned under warm water and disinfected with alcohol – hygienic and reusable. Sandboard and paper files, on the other hand, are single-use products.

The file shapes and smooths, while nail clippers and nail scissors shorten. It is best to combine both: shorten first, then file into shape.

Yes – compact glass nail files with a protective sleeve are ideal for travel and your handbag. You will find more models under Nail files.