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These files nail it every time.
Byrdie / Alli Waataja
In This Article
Byrdie / Alli Waataja
How much attention have you paid to yournail file?
For most people, the answer is “not much.”
Not all are created equal, and each jot down has pros and cons.
PHOTO: Amazon
After consulting with nail expertBrittney Boyceand considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated nail files.
This four-sided file has four different grits to do it allshape, smooth, buff, and shine.
(All four sides are made from a microfiber material thats gentle on your tips.)
PHOTO: Orlybeauty
Consider it a one-stop-shop nail tool that makesDIY maniseasier than ever.
Pro tip: If youre going to paint your nails, skip the shine step.
Who Its For
This option is perfect if youre on the go.
PHOTO: Nordstrom
If you rely on the word of experts, youll want to consider this nail file.
Its not just celebrity nail artists who appreciate this tool.
One certified professional who reviewed the product gave it five stars.
PHOTO: Target
These mini files are made of poplar wood from sustainably managed forests and come in a set of 12.
Each of the two sides work to buff and smooth but also shape nails.
Ever struggle to find a gift for someone who seems to have everything?
PHOTO: Amazon
Well, they might not be expecting this luxurious nail file set.
The files are packed in the brands iconic orange box, which is a gift in itself.
Plus, the pretty pastel colors bring happiness to the somewhat mundane chorea win-win.
PHOTO: Amazon
This file set is perfect for someone who wants anat-home spa experience.
Each pack comes with 10a total steal.
And if you want to reuse them, theyre washable.
PHOTO: Sally Beauty
Just be sure to only file nails in one direction to minimize the potential for peeling or splitting.
Give this nail file to the person who appreciates reusable and quality products.
Its no wonder this tool has an almost five-star rating on Amazon.
PHOTO: Révérence de Bastien
Made with real diamonds, this file also has a fiberglass edge for easy handling.
Bonus: Its easily washable with just soap and water.
If your nails constantly break, this luxe tool will help to restore them to their perfect shape.
PHOTO: Nailtek
And when the nail file is described as “durable,” its true.
One reviewer noted that they used this tool for 10 years before having to replace it.
Acrylic aficionados should consider purchasing this durable nail file.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its nontraditional form works to achieve multiple shapes, whetheroval, rounded, orsquare.
The file comes with a carrying case, which is important when it comes to storing the file.
This nail file is the ideal gift for the germaphobe in your life.
PHOTO: Amazon
This one has earned a permanent home in our toiletry bag.
The fact that it comes in a cute pink case is just an extra bonus.
If youre looking for products that boast quality and happiness, consider adding this tool to your mani kit.
PHOTO: Amazon
And if you want to take them on the go, they come with a plastic carrying case.
It makes for much less friction and, ultimately, gentler filing.
Given all the features, some reviewers say it can be confusing at first.
But, after a few uses, they were able to get the hang of it.
These nail fileswhich come in a pack of 10prove that statement to be true.
For only $4, youll receive several long-lasting files that have two grits to achieve the best shape.
It depends on what the file is made of.
The same basic filling principles and techniques apply.
The key is using a coarser file with a 100/180 grit, says Boyce.
This roundup was very important to her as someone who often carries a nail file in her purse.
Caitlyn Martynis a writer on staff at Byrdie, where she covers all things beauty and style.
