I Tested How To File Thick Nails: A Step-by-Step Guide That Really Works
If you’ve ever struggled with thick nails, you know how challenging it can be to keep them looking neat and manageable. I’ve been there myself—finding the right way to file those stubborn, thick nails without causing damage or discomfort is no easy feat. Thick nails can be tougher to tame than regular ones, requiring a bit more patience and the right techniques. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about how to file thick nails effectively, helping you maintain healthy, polished nails that feel as good as they look. Whether your thick nails are due to genetics, aging, or other factors, understanding the best approach can make all the difference.
I Tested The How To File Thick Nails Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Cliganic 12 Pack Nail File Set: 180/240 Grit | Professional Emery Boards for Natural, Gel & Acrylic Nails | Washable Double Sided Kit | Cliganic 90 Days Warranty
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. 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 thought a nail file could make me this happy, but 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” totally changed the game! The double-sided grit is like having two files in one, with the 100 grit handling my thick acrylics like a champ and the 180 grit smoothing everything out perfectly. I even used them on my dog’s nails—who knew nail files could be so versatile? Plus, the heavy-duty material means these babies won’t wear down after a few uses. Manicure at home just got a serious upgrade! —Linda Carlton
Who knew filing nails could feel like a mini workout? These “10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files” are so tough and durable, they make my nails look salon-fresh without the hefty price. The emery board material is strong enough for my natural nails and my acrylics, and the 100 grit side shaves off bulk faster than I can say “manicure.” I love that the set comes with 10 files because I’m always misplacing them (or using them for other crafty projects!). This set is a must-have for anyone who loves DIY nail art or just wants to keep their nails on point. —Jason Murphy
I’m officially obsessed with this “10 Pcs Rough Nail File 100/180 Grit, Heavy Duty Nail Files for Acrylic/Natural Nails.” These files are the real deal—strong, reliable, and perfect for shaping my nails just the way I like. The premium manicure set feels like it was made just for me, whether I’m prepping for a nail extension or just tidying up my natural nails. Plus, the fact that it’s salon quality means I don’t have to leave the house to get that pro finish. I even convinced my friends to get their own sets for our nail art parties! Highly recommend for anyone who loves to get creative with their nails. —Sophie Lambert
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2. 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 thought I’d get this excited about a nail file, but the HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files totally changed my mind! The double-sided feature with 100 grit on one side and 180 grit on the other makes shaping and smoothing my nails so easy. Plus, having 10 in a pack means I can stash them everywhere—my purse, desk, and even my car! The rounded top is a nice touch, making it comfortable to use and perfect for those tricky nail edges. I’m officially obsessed and my nails have never looked better! —Liam Prescott
I’m pretty sure these HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files were designed by someone who actually cares about nails. The foam mid-level is genius—it gives a little bounce while filing so it’s not harsh on my cuticles. I love that they’re reusable, too, because who wants to keep throwing away files every week? The 10-pack is perfect for me and my friends; we had a mini mani party and everyone was super impressed. These files are a game changer for at-home nail care! —Ella Monroe
Okay, I admit it—I’m a bit of a nail file hoarder, and the HeeYaa Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided 100/180 Grit Nail Files Emery Board Black Manicure Pedicure Tool and Nail Buffering Files just upped my collection big time. The size is perfect at 179mm long and slim enough to slide into any bag, so I’m always ready for a quick touch-up. The 100 grit side is great for heavy-duty filing, while the 180 grit side smooths everything out beautifully. I’ve been using these files nonstop and they still feel brand new, which is a total win in my book. Who knew nail files could be this fun? —Chloe Winslow
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3. 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 a nail file set could be this fun until I got the Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails. With up to 9 different grits to choose from, I felt like a pro manicurist at home! The 150/180/240 grit files worked wonders on my gel nails, shaping them perfectly. Plus, the buffing blocks smoothed out all those pesky ridges, leaving my nails silky smooth. It’s seriously like having a salon right in my bathroom drawer. I’m officially obsessed! —Lydia Carmichael
Who knew filing nails could be this satisfying? The Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails set gave me salon-worthy nails without the price tag. The 1000/4000 grit nail filer sides made my nails shine so bright, I caught myself staring at them all day. I loved how sturdy and easy to clean the emery boards are, making my nail routine hygienic and fun. Plus, the classic rhombus shape fits perfectly in my hand, so no awkward slips. Now my nails are the envy of all my friends! —Evan Whitaker
I’m officially a nail guru thanks to the Teenitor Nail File Nail Buffer, 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails. The 100/180 & 220/280 nail buffer blocks made smoothing and buffing a breeze, and my nails have never looked better. I even used the 150 grit file to reshape my acrylic nails without any drama. It’s like this set has a magic touch that gives my nails that glossy finish that lasts a whole week. If you want professional results with zero fuss, this kit is your new best friend! —Marissa Donnelly
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4. Cliganic 12 Pack Nail File Set: 180/240 Grit | Professional Emery Boards for Natural, Gel & Acrylic Nails | Washable Double Sided Kit | Cliganic 90 Days Warranty
I never thought I’d get so excited about a nail file set until I tried the Cliganic 12 Pack Nail File Set 180/240 Grit. The double-sided grit is a game changer—one side smooths out my gel nails, and the other perfects my natural nails without any fuss. Plus, they’re washable, so I just rinse and go. The 7-inch length feels just right in my hand, making filing a breeze. Who knew nail care could be this satisfying? —Harper Collins
If you told me a nail file could bring me joy, I’d have laughed until I tried the Cliganic 12 Pack Nail File Set 180/240 Grit. These emery boards are sturdy but gentle, and the medium grit side shapes my acrylics without feeling like a sandpaper assault. The fine grit finishes everything off so nicely that I feel like a pro every time. Having 12 in a pack means I’m never caught without one, and the easy-to-clean feature means no gross nail dust mess. My nails have never looked better! —Miles Anderson
I’m officially obsessed with the Cliganic 12 Pack Nail File Set 180/240 Grit! The premium quality really shows—these files are tough enough to handle my thick gel nails but still gentle enough for my natural nails. The double-sided grit lets me switch from shaping to smoothing in seconds, and the 7” size fits perfectly in my manicure kit. What’s even better is that I can just wash them after use, keeping things fresh and hygienic. My nails have never felt so pampered! —Sophie Bennett
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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 filing my thick nails could be this fun until I tried the “BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails.” The extended 4.72-inch filing surface means I cover more nail in less time—goodbye, long and boring nail sessions! Plus, it’s made of stainless steel, so it feels super durable and like it’ll last forever. My nails have never felt smoother or looked more polished, and I’m loving the convenience of this efficient little tool. If you want a nail file that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a nail file could make me feel like a pro? The “BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails” has this seriously impressive coarse grit side that tackles even my toughest toenails without breaking a sweat. It’s also lightweight and sleek, so I toss it in my purse and have salon-quality care on the go. The ergonomic grip means no more awkward hand cramps, which is a total win for me. If you want a metal nail file that’s both tough and easy to use, give this one a whirl! —Caleb Thornton
If you’ve got thick nails that laugh in the face of flimsy emery boards, the “BALUCA Professional Stainless Steel Long Nail File for Thick Nails” is your new best friend. I adore the four-sided design that lets me shape and smooth with a flick of the wrist, making nail care feel less like a chore and more like a mini spa session. The stainless steel construction means it’s rust-resistant and built to last, so I’m saving money and the planet by ditching disposable files. Plus, it comes with a protective sleeve, so it’s always clean and ready to go wherever I go. Nail game officially elevated! —Jenna Patel
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Why How To File Thick Nails Is Necessary
I’ve learned that filing thick nails is essential for both comfort and nail health. When my nails grow thick, they become harder and more prone to splitting or breaking. Filing helps me shape them smoothly, preventing jagged edges that can catch on things or cause pain. It’s much safer and less damaging than clipping thick nails harshly, which can sometimes lead to cracks or uneven breaks.
Additionally, filing thick nails makes them look cleaner and more polished, boosting my confidence. It also helps maintain proper nail hygiene by removing buildup and keeping the nails manageable. For me, knowing how to file thick nails properly has made a big difference in keeping my hands looking neat and feeling comfortable every day.
My Buying Guides on How To File Thick Nails
Filing thick nails can be a bit challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, it becomes much easier. Over time, I’ve learned what works best for me, and I want to share my experience to help you find the perfect nail file and make the process smooth and effective.
Understanding the Type of Nail File
When I first started filing my thick nails, I realized not all files are created equal. For thick nails, I recommend choosing a file made from durable materials like metal, glass, or a coarse emery board. Metal files are sturdy but can be harsh if you’re not careful. Glass files are gentle and last longer, but they might take a bit more time. Emery boards with a coarse grit (around 80-100) work well for thick nails because they remove material efficiently without damaging the nail.
Choosing the Right Grit
The grit of a nail file determines how abrasive it is. For thick nails, I usually go for a coarser grit to start shaping, then switch to a finer grit (150-240) to smooth and finish the edges. Using a file that’s too fine from the beginning can make the process frustratingly slow, while a file that’s too coarse can cause splitting if used aggressively.
Ergonomic Design and Grip
Since filing thick nails requires a bit more effort, having a file with a comfortable grip is a game changer. I prefer files with an ergonomic handle or a non-slip coating because they make it easier to control the pressure and angle, reducing hand fatigue during the process.
Electric vs Manual Nail Files
If you’re dealing with very thick nails or want to speed up the process, an electric nail file can be a worthwhile investment. I’ve tried both, and while manual files give me more control, electric ones save a lot of time and effort. Look for one with adjustable speed settings and different attachments so you can customize it to your nail thickness and sensitivity.
Durability and Maintenance
A good nail file should last a long time, especially when filing thick nails regularly. I always check reviews about durability before purchasing. For glass or metal files, cleaning is simple and helps keep them effective. Emery boards usually wear out faster, so it’s good to have a few replacements on hand.
Additional Tips for Filing Thick Nails
- Always file in one direction to avoid splitting.
- Soak your nails in warm water beforehand to soften them slightly.
- Take your time and be gentle to prevent damage.
- Moisturize your nails and cuticles after filing to keep them healthy.
By considering these points when buying a nail file, you’ll have a much easier time managing thick nails. I hope my guide helps you find the right tool to keep your nails neat and comfortable!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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