Why E-File Bits Get Clogged

When using an e-file for nail services, it's common for the bits to become clogged with product and debris. Uncured gel, acrygel, gel polish, or acrylic are often the culprits behind this blockage. Fully cured product appears as pure dust, which can still settle in the teeth of your bit and needs to be removed. However, the real issue lies in products that contain uncured particles, which can cause more problems when they build up.

It's important to note that gel can appear cured at just 30% cure, but often it's not fully cured. This results in small or large chunks of product appearing on your nail file or e-file bit. The primary cause of undercuring is using a lamp that is not designed for the specific system you are working with. To learn more about the significance of a proper gel polish cure, you can check out the findings from our experiment and the research conducted with scientist Jim McConnell of McConnell Labs.

To showcase the consequences of product buildup on e-file bits and how to prevent it, we have created an informative Instagram reel.

Aside from nail product debris, dust, and debris from the skin and nail can also accumulate on e-file bits, just like when using manual nail tools. However, this dust is often harder to detect, giving the false impression that the bit is clean.

Although the bit may appear visually clean, debris can still be present under the microscope. It's crucial to treat your e-file bits with the same level of cleanliness as you would with manual nail tools. Before using the cuticle bit on another client, it is imperative to clean and disinfect it thoroughly.

Here's how you can effectively remove debris from your e-file bit:

1. Use a wire cleaning brush with stiff bristles to thoroughly clean the teeth of the bit and remove product buildup. Soft brushes or those with nylon bristles, typically used for removing dust from your client's hand, are often not stiff enough to remove this type of debris.
2. Perform this cleaning step after every nail service, followed by cleaning the bit in warm soapy water and then using a disinfectant solution.
3. Remember that if debris is not properly removed, the disinfectant won't be able to effectively work, as it will be blocked by the debris. Refer to our handy guide on sanitation, disinfection, and sterilisation practices.

By implementing this crucial cleaning routine, you not only maintain hygiene standards but also ensure longevity in your e-file bits. Cleaning them properly after each client will prevent cross-contamination and the buildup of product and debris.