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As emery boards basically are disposable nail files, you may be wondering whether it is okay to use them again and again, or whether you should throw it away. Whilst you can use an emery more than once, it’s a good idea to replace yours regularly. In this article, we look at why this is and how often you should actually replace your emery board.
Can You Reuse an Emery Board?
Yes, you can reuse an emery board, provided that it is clean, dry, and still rough enough to actually file your nails. Cardboard or foam emery boards could be described as ‘semi-disposable’. They don’t have to be thrown away after every single use, but they should not be used indefinitely.
When Should You Throw an Emery Board Away?
Get rid of your board if any of the following start to happen:
- The surface has become smooth.
- It has a dirty or ‘dusty’ look.
- It has bent or split.
- It has been used on infected, damaged, or otherwise very unclean nails.
- It has been shared with another person (although this should not be done in the first place).
- It doesn’t file properly any more.
How Do You Clean an Emery Board?
You can tap or brush off any nail dust that will easily come loose. However, it’s not really possible to properly wash an emery board, as it’s usually made of flimsy materials such as cardboard or foam.
If an emery board does become soft, wet, or starts to peel, it’s a good idea to throw it out and replace it.
Is it Hygienic to Reuse an Emery Board?
It can be okay to do this if your board has only ever been used by you, the board is not too old and is in good condition, and you do not have any nail issues or infections.
If any of these apply, throw out your old board and get a fresh one!
How to Store Emery Boards Between Uses
Store them somewhere cool and dry, preferably where you can find them (such as with the rest of your nail collection). If you are going to keep them in a draw, it’s best to use a small pouch or case, rather than storing them loose at the bottom of a random draw.
Are Reusable Nail Files a Better Option?
If you don’t like the idea of throwing away emery boards on a regular basis, a glass nail file is a worthwhile investment. Provided they are not dropped or otherwise damaged, nail files are easier to clean and last a lot longer.
FAQs
How many times can you reuse an emery board?
There is not a fixed number. It’s up to individual judgement but it’s best to throw away your emery if it is smooth and therefore unable to still file nails, or if it is dirty.
Can you wash an emery board?
Not really; as many emery boards are made of foam or cardboard, it’s hard to wash them properly without causing water damage. Glass nail files are much more suitable for cleaning.
Should you share an emery board?
No, it’s better not to share an emery board with anyone else. This is because boards can collect debris, and could transfer bacteria or other pathogens and infections, such as verrucas, to others.
Can you use the same emery board for fingers and toes?
For hygiene purposes, it’s best to use a separate emery on your hands and feet.
Wrapping it Up
Whilst an emery board doesn’t have to be thrown away after every single use, it is not a tool that lasts forever. Utility and hygiene are the most important things to consider when it comes to deciding whether to replace your emery board. If it is no longer rough or is dirty and has been used on infected nails, it’s time to throw it out and get another one.
In the longer term, you may consider buying a glass nail file instead, as these can be washed and reused many more times than a disposable emery board.