How to File a Nail Without a Nail File

Nine West Renny Women's Block Heel Mules
Elevate your outfits with these Renny mules by Nine West.

Don’t you hate it when you break or snag a finger nail? It’s annoying and dangerous. Anyone that has cut their nose with a rough nail knows this. Don’t even go near your eye – ouch! No file – no problem. I learned years ago how to take care of a rough nail without a nail file. Call me cheap or call me ingenious – I don’t care. My methods work.

It is easiest if you are staying in a hotel to find an alternative to a nail file. And isn’t this when you need a file the most – away from home? It’s hiding in that nice big bathroom that you don’t have to clean. It comes in many colors and many sizes. It always works and will not only cure the rough edges but can help reshape the nail. Shower tiles, or more specifically, the grout between the tiles are nail-wonderful. All you need to do is rub your nail along the grout line and viola – smooth again. You can take the drive-by approach or attend to that snag in the shower – whatever fits your time line. Best of all – you know the shower is cleaned daily. Of course, this works in your own shower if you can’t find a file.

The other no-file approach I find helpful is the underside of desks or stone counter tops. One is wood one is stone. Either will work in a pinch. Usually the tops of both are as smooth as glass. But the bottoms are a goldmine. File away. This will keep you from hurting yourself until you find a file.

Just pick clean places to file your nails. Don’t try these tricks in the subway or in the airplane bathroom. You never know what will work. Remember, you don’t need a nail file to file that nail.