The Ultimate Guide to Single-Use vs Reusable Tools in the Nail Salon

When it comes to running a safe, hygienic, and professional nail salon, one of the biggest questions techs face is:

What do I throw away after one use, and what can be safely disinfected and reused?

Not only does this protect your clients, but it also protects your reputation as a professional. Let’s break it down clearly so you know exactly what’s disposable (single use) and what’s reusable (with proper cleaning & disinfection).

Single-Use (Disposable) Items

These products must be disposed of after every client because they can’t be effectively disinfected and pose a hygiene risk if reused.

• Sanding Bands

  Always single use. Once they’ve touched the nail, they can’t be disinfected safely. A fresh band for every client.

• Sanding Discs 

  Like sanding bands, these are strictly one client only. They wear down quickly and harbour dust, so always replace them.

• Nail Files & Buffers (Standard Files, Sponges, Foam Buffers)

  Unless they’re made with disinfectable cores or metal systems with disposable grits, most traditional files and buffers are single use. Sharing them between clients = cross-contamination. Please note, only the metal care is reusable, the disposable grit paper is single use.

• Gloves

  Always single use. Dispose of after each client or before due to chemical permeability and replace with a fresh pair.

• Pro Prep Brushes and Lint Free Wipes

Throw away after every use. If contaminants gets on the brush or wipe during service, throw away and use a new one to avoid cross contamination of oils that way hinder adhesion:

Reusable (With Proper Cleaning & Disinfection)

These tools are built to last but must go through the correct cleaning and disinfection protocol between every client.

• E-File Bits (Carbides, Diamonds, Ceramic)

  Not disposable. After each client, scrub with a brush, wash with soap and water or an ultra sonic cleaner, then disinfect according to local regulations (e.g., in a hospital-grade disinfectant solution. Never skip this step.

• Metal Nail Tools (Cuticle Pushers, Nippers, Scissors, Clippers, Tweezers)

  Reusable if cleaned and disinfected properly. They should be washed, disinfected, and ideally sterilised in an autoclave between each client.

• Metal Nail File Systems (With Replaceable Grits)

  The grit stickers are disposable, but the metal core is disinfectable and reusable.

 Common Mistakes Techs Make

• Reusing sanding bands to “save money” - this spreads bacteria and risks infection. 
• Thinking e-file bits are “self-cleaning”  - they’re not, and dust build-up = risk.
• Wiping tools with acetone, cleaning wipes or sanitiser spray and thinking they’re disinfected -  proper cleaning and disinfection steps are essential.

Always follow the 3-step process for reusable tools:

1. Clean (soap and water, scrub off debris)

2. Disinfect (soak in professional disinfectant)

3. Sterilise (autoclave, if required in your area)

Running a professional nail business means balancing efficiency with hygiene. Remember:

• If it’s sanding, foam, or fabric-based - it’s almost always single use.

• If it’s metal or carbide/diamond - it’s reusable with correct cleaning and disinfection.

• Gloves and other PPE? Always single use.

Your clients will notice and appreciate your commitment to safety. Investing in proper tool care is protecting your business.

Follow our full sanitation, disinfection and sterilisation guide here.