PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Nail Care
How to Fix Nail Clippers Co-authored by Marta Nagorska
Last Updated: February 18, 2026 References
Reattaching the Clipper Handle
|
Sharpening Nail Clippers
|
Cleaning Nail Clippers
|
Video
|
Q&A
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Marta Nagorska. Marta Nagorska is a Nail Technician and Nail Art Blogger based in London, UK. She runs the blog, Furious Filer, where she gives tutorials on nail care and advanced nail art. She has been practicing nail art for over 5 years and graduated from Northampton College with distinction with a Nail Technician and Manicurist degree in 2017. She has been awarded the top spot in the OPI Nail Art Competition. This article has been viewed 138,674 times.
Nail clippers sometimes fall apart when you are using them, which can be frustrating. However, it is easy to reattach the handle and put your nail clippers back together again. If the blades on your nail clippers are dull, then you can take them apart and sharpen them. While you are fixing your nail clippers, you might also want to clean them to remove any bacteria that might be stuck on the blades.
This article is partially based on an interview with Marta Nagorska, a Nail Technician and Nail Art Blogger based in London, UK.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Reattaching the Clipper Handle
1 Insert the pin. A pin or rod-like piece holds the handle of your nail clippers in place and allows you to clip your nails. Locate the pin and then locate the hole near the clipper blades. Take the pin and insert it through the hole. Make sure that the notch in the pin is on the upper side of the clippers.[1]XResearch source [2]XResearch source
Hold the pin in place with your thumb by pressing on it from underneath the clippers.
2 Squeeze the clippers. Next, squeeze the clipper blades together with your thumb and forefinger while still holding onto the pin. This will expose more of the notched area in the pin and allow you to reattach the handle.[3]XResearch source [4]XResearch source
If you find it difficult to squeeze hard enough to bring the blades together, then you can may need to ask someone to help you or use a vice to press the blades together.
Advertisement
3 Thread the handle end onto the pin. Look at your handle and find the opening on the end of it. This opening attaches to the notch in the pin. Take the open end of your handle and thread it over the notch in the pin.[5]XResearch source [6]XResearch source
After you have done this, you can release the pin. The handle should stay in place from the tension created by the two opposing blades.
4 Turn the handle back around. After you have replaced the handle, your clippers should be all better. Flip the handle up and over the pin if you want to clip you nails, or spin it around if you want to close and store the clippers.[7]XResearch source [8]XResearch source
Your clippers should be ready to use again!
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Sharpening Nail Clippers
1 Take the clippers apart. To sharpen your nail clippers, you will first have to take them apart. Squeeze the clipper blades together using your thumb and index finger. Then flip the handle over to the front of the blades and take it off of the notch in the pin.[9]XResearch source
Set the pin and handle aside while you sharpen the clipper blades.
2 Squeeze the blades together. Place your thumb and index finger near the end of the clippers where the two blades meet and then squeeze the blades together. Continue to squeeze and keep the blades close together while you sharpen them.[10]XResearch source
If this is difficult for you, then try using a vice to hold the clippers in place while you sharpen them.
3 Sharpen the blades. You can use a sandpaper covered dowel to sharpen the blades if the blades are curved. If the blades are flat, then you can use a sharpening stone.[11]XResearch source
Rub the clipper blades back and forth along the sandpaper or sharpening stone to sharpen them.
Do this for a few minutes to ensure that they are nice and sharp.
4 Put the clippers back together. When you are finished sharpening the blades, you can put the clippers back together. Reinsert the pin through the hole and then insert the open end of the handle into the notch in the pin. Spin the handle around and use your newly sharpened clippers.[12]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Cleaning Nail Clippers
1 Take the clippers apart. Some people do not know that you can take nail clippers apart but it is quite easy to do. To take the clippers apart, you will need to squeeze the blades together. Then, flip the handle up and over to the front of the blades and pull the handle off of the pin.[13]XResearch source
The pin should fall right out after you release the handle.
Set the pin and the handle aside.
2 Wash the clippers. Dip a manicure or nail brush in soapy water and scrub the clippers to remove debris.[14]X Expert Source Marta NagorskaNail ArtistExpert Interview Rinse and dry all parts of the clippers after you are done.
Alternatively, hold the clippers under warm running water and use an old toothbrush to clean the blades, pin, and handle with a little dish soap.
3 Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab. All you need to clean your nail clippers is a bit of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. Get a cotton swab and dip it into some rubbing alcohol.[15]XResearch source
If you don’t have rubbing alcohol, then you can try using some alcohol based mouthwash or vinegar.
4 Clean all surfaces of the clippers. Wipe the tip of the cotton swab over all surfaces of the nail clippers. Pay special attention to the area around the blades since this area will likely be the dirtiest. Make sure that you clean the pin and handle with the cotton swab as well.[16]XResearch source
Do not try to clean the blades with your fingers or you might cut yourself.
It is recommended to clean your nail clippers before each use, especially if you share nail clippers with other people.[17]X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
5 Put the clippers back together. After you have finished cleaning all surfaces of the clippers, you can put them back together. Insert the pin through the hole so that the pin notch is near the top of the clippers. Then, squeeze the blades together and thread the open end of the handle through the pin notch.[18]XResearch source
To sanitize the clippers, spray them with a sanitizing tool spray.[19]X Expert Source Marta NagorskaNail ArtistExpert Interview
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question My nail clippers do not open back up while using them, gunk is not the problem. Tried bending the inside with a screwdriver but it doesn't stay. What else can I try besides a new pair of clippers? Community Answer The screws are probably really old or torn. New ones aren't that expensive, so maybe just opt for that solution and recycle the malfunctioning ones. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 2
Question If my nail clippers are too strong, how will I hold it down? Community Answer If you're talking about not being able to cut your nails with clippers because your fingers are not strong enough to do it (mine usually aren't), then I recommend you place the nail you're trimming on a hard surface (such as a desk or table) and use the palm of your hand to press down and cut your nail. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 3
Question Is it okay if I use hydrogen peroxide instead of rubbing alcohol to clean all the surfaces of a clipper? Community Answer Yes! They both eliminate germs from the metal of the clippers! Just make sure you are careful not to spill any on your skin, because it is more intense than rubbing alcohol. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 6
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
Quick Fixes to Repair Broken Nails Wherever & WheneverHow toApply Fake NailsHow toDo Acrylic NailsHone and Grind a Dull Blade Using These Simple At-Home TechniquesHow to Sharpen & Reshape Tweezers at HomeHow toSharpen Hair ClippersA Complete Guide to Cleaning & Disinfecting Your Nail Clippers at HomeHow to Get a Blade Out of a Pencil Sharpener (Even Without a Screwdriver)How toUse Nail ClippersHow toUse Manicure ToolsHow toGive Yourself a ManicureHow toSharpen Dog ClippersPro Tips For Cutting Your NailsHow toShorten Nail Tips Advertisement
Co-authored by: Marta Nagorska Nail Artist This article was co-authored by Marta Nagorska. Marta Nagorska is a Nail Technician and Nail Art Blogger based in London, UK. She runs the blog, Furious Filer, where she gives tutorials on nail care and advanced nail art. She has been practicing nail art for over 5 years and graduated from Northampton College with distinction with a Nail Technician and Manicurist degree in 2017. She has been awarded the top spot in the OPI Nail Art Competition. This article has been viewed 138,674 times. 2 votes - 100% Co-authors: 3Updated: February 18, 2026 Views: 138,674 Categories: Nail CareArticle SummaryX
It can be frustrating if your nail clippers come apart, but fortunately, you can easily fix them. Your nail clippers should consist of 3 parts, the clippers, the pin, and the lever. First, insert the pin through the bottom of your clippers. Then, squeeze the clipper blades together while holding the pin in place with your thumb. You’ll need to hook the lever onto the end of the pin until it clicks. Now your clippers should be as good as new! For more tips, including how to sharpen your nail clippers, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish Portuguese German French Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 138,674 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Marta Nagorska Nail Artist Co-authors: 3Updated: February 18, 2026 Views: 138,674100% of readers found this article helpful. 2 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote
Quizzes & Games
What Type of Hands Do I Have QuizTake QuizFinish the Phrase QuizTake QuizWhat Color Should I Paint My Nails QuizTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizSkin Picking Disorder TestTake QuizAm I a Good Friend QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
Quick Fixes to Repair Broken Nails Wherever & WheneverHow toApply Fake NailsHow toDo Acrylic NailsHone and Grind a Dull Blade Using These Simple At-Home Techniques
Featured Articles
How toMake a Paper AirplaneHow toLearn Morse CodeHow toFold an Origami Star (Shuriken)How to Fold and Use a Paper Fortune Teller
Trending Articles
What Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouFinish the Lyrics Quiz
Featured Articles
What Animal Am I QuizAm I Gay QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend QuizAm I an Alpha, Beta, or Omega Quiz
Featured Articles
160+ Good Roasts to Burn Your Friends & Family MembersHow to Play the Snaps Guessing Game140+ Wavelength Game Categories & Questions to Extend Your PlayThe Ultimate Collection of Funny, Cheesy, & Romantic Rizz LinesVirtual Truth or Dare Questions to Keep Things Interesting180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument
Watch Articles
How toEat GuavaHow to Get Yellow Stains Out of White ShoesLeft Eye Twitching for Females: What Astrology Says About Eye Twitching50 First Date Conversation Starters to Spark a ConnectionHow to Make a Mask Out of Paper (for Kids or Adults)How to Put Jibbitz on Crocs
Trending Articles
Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?How to Read Face Moles: Lucky and Unlucky PlacementsWhat JJK Character Am I QuizFade Hairstyle Types for Men: A Complete GuideRecessed Maxilla (Upper Jawbone): Symptoms & TreatmentCan Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?
Quizzes & Games
How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizThe Paperclip Challenge: Can You Outsmart the Detective?PlayHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Nail Care
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
How to Sharpen & Reshape Tweezers at Home 
How toUse Nail Clippers 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Marta Nagorska Nail Artist This article was co-authored by Marta Nagorska. Marta Nagorska is a Nail Technician and Nail Art Blogger based in London, UK. She runs the blog, Furious Filer, where she gives tutorials on nail care and advanced nail art. She has been practicing nail art for over 5 years and graduated from Northampton College with distinction with a Nail Technician and Manicurist degree in 2017. She has been awarded the top spot in the OPI Nail Art Competition. This article has been viewed 138,674 times. 2 votes - 100% Co-authors: 3 Updated: February 18, 2026 Views: 138,674 Categories: Nail Care Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Play
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
618 
1 Insert the pin. A pin or rod-like piece holds the handle of your nail clippers in place and allows you to clip your nails. Locate the pin and then locate the hole near the clipper blades. Take the pin and insert it through the hole. Make sure that the notch in the pin is on the upper side of the clippers.[1] [2] 
2 Squeeze the clippers. Next, squeeze the clipper blades together with your thumb and forefinger while still holding onto the pin. This will expose more of the notched area in the pin and allow you to reattach the handle.[3] [4] 
2 Squeeze the blades together. Place your thumb and index finger near the end of the clippers where the two blades meet and then squeeze the blades together. Continue to squeeze and keep the blades close together while you sharpen them.[10] 
3 Sharpen the blades. You can use a sandpaper covered dowel to sharpen the blades if the blades are curved. If the blades are flat, then you can use a sharpening stone.[11] 
4 Put the clippers back together. When you are finished sharpening the blades, you can put the clippers back together. Reinsert the pin through the hole and then insert the open end of the handle into the notch in the pin. Spin the handle around and use your newly sharpened clippers.[12] Advertisement 
1 Take the clippers apart. Some people do not know that you can take nail clippers apart but it is quite easy to do. To take the clippers apart, you will need to squeeze the blades together. Then, flip the handle up and over to the front of the blades and pull the handle off of the pin.[13] 
2 Wash the clippers. Dip a manicure or nail brush in soapy water and scrub the clippers to remove debris.[14] Rinse and dry all parts of the clippers after you are done. 
3 Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab. All you need to clean your nail clippers is a bit of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. Get a cotton swab and dip it into some rubbing alcohol.[15] 
5 Put the clippers back together. After you have finished cleaning all surfaces of the clippers, you can put them back together. Insert the pin through the hole so that the pin notch is near the top of the clippers. Then, squeeze the blades together and thread the open end of the handle through the pin notch.[18] 
Community Answer The screws are probably really old or torn. New ones aren't that expensive, so maybe just opt for that solution and recycle the malfunctioning ones. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 2 
Community Answer If you're talking about not being able to cut your nails with clippers because your fingers are not strong enough to do it (mine usually aren't), then I recommend you place the nail you're trimming on a hard surface (such as a desk or table) and use the palm of your hand to press down and cut your nail. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 3 
Community Answer Yes! They both eliminate germs from the metal of the clippers! Just make sure you are careful not to spill any on your skin, because it is more intense than rubbing alcohol. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 6 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.