Properly trimming your child’s toenails is essential for their comfort and health. If toenails grow too long, they can snag on socks, irritate your child’s skin or even lead to painful ingrown toenails. With kids running, jumping and playing throughout the day, it’s important to take care of their feet so they can move freely without pain or irritation. This guide will help parents master toenail cutting and ensure their children’s feet remain happy and healthy.
While cutting toenails might seem straightforward, there’s more to it than meets the eye, especially when dealing with children. Your little one’s toenails tend to be more delicate and their natural fidgeting can make trimming tricky. However, with the right technique and tools, you can make the process quick, painless and even stress-free. Below we’ve listed some of our top tips to help you out:
The golden rule of toenail trimming is to cut straight across. Avoid rounding the edges or cutting into the sides of the nail as this can increase the risk of ingrown toenails, which occur when the edges of the nail grow into the surrounding skin. Straight edges allow the nails to grow out properly and reduce irritation, especially if your child spends long periods of time in school shoes or sports trainers.
Resist the urge to trim the nails too closely to the skin. Cutting too short can expose sensitive nail beds, making the toes more vulnerable to pain and infections. For children who spend a lot of time running or playing sports, overly short nails can exacerbate the risk of trauma, as the nail helps protect the toe from repeated impacts. A good rule of thumb is to leave a thin white edge visible at the tip of the nail.
Rather than attempting one big snip, use small, controlled cuts. This approach gives you greater control and reduces the risk of cutting too much or accidentally nicking the surrounding skin should your child suddenly move or fidget. Small cuts also help you shape the nail neatly without applying excessive pressure.
After trimming, inspect the nail edges for any sharp or jagged spots. These can snag on socks or scratch your child’s skin, potentially causing discomfort or minor injuries. Using a fine-grit nail file or emery board, gently smooth the edges to create a polished finish, filing in one direction to avoid weakening the nail. For young children who have thinner, softer nails, this step is especially useful for preventing splits or breaks.
Keeping your nail clippers or scissors clean is a must. After each use, wash your tools with soap and warm water. You can also disinfect them by wiping them with rubbing alcohol or soaking them briefly in an antiseptic solution. For families with multiple children, cleaning tools between uses becomes even more important to prevent the spread of germs. It’s a good idea to store the tools in a clean, dry place to keep them in top condition for future trims.
If your child’s toenails are particularly hard or thick, trimming them right after a warm bath can make the process easier. The water softens the nails, making them more pliable and reducing the risk of splintering or breaking during the cut.
Dealing with wriggly children during toenail trims is a common challenge for parents. To keep your little one calm and still, you can try sitting them on your lap or in a supportive chair. You can also distract them with a favourite book, toy or TV show to keep them occupied while you work.
If your child is particularly resistant, involve them in the process - allowing them to ‘help’ by holding the file (under supervision) can make the experience feel more collaborative. Patience is key, and with time, even the squirmiest child will grow more comfortable with the routine.
Children’s toenails grow at varying rates, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should trim them. On average, adults might cut their toenails every one to four weeks but your little one’s toenails will likely grow quicker than yours. Babies might need their nails trimmed once or twice a week.
It’s worth checking your child’s toenails every week to see if their toenails need trimming. You should also always monitor their nails for signs they need trimming sooner, such as snagging or discomfort while wearing shoes. Regular checks and trims will keep their toenails in great shape, preventing discomfort and potential injuries.
Every child is unique. Some may need trimming weekly, while others can go longer. Building a routine based on your child’s needs ensures their feet stay comfortable and ready for all their adventures.
With the right tools, a calm approach and a little patience, toenail trimming can become a manageable part of your family’s hygiene routine. Caring for your children’s feet when they’re little will encourage them to develop good foot hygiene habits, helping their feet to grow properly and reducing risk of foot conditions when they’re older.
