Professional nail techs recommend having a variety of grits for perfect manicures: 80-grit for shaping acrylic nails, 100-grit for initial natural nail shaping, 180-grit for smoothing and finishing, 240-grit for buffing natural nails, and 400+ grit for high-gloss polishing. You’ll need coarser files (80-100) for artificial nails and finer options (180+) for natural nails. Your skill level also matters—beginners should stick with finer grits to prevent damage. Discover which combination works best for your specific nail needs below.
Key Takeaways
- 80/80 grit files are ideal for artificial nails like acrylics and gels to shape and remove bulk quickly.
- 100/180 combination files offer versatility with coarser side for shaping and finer side for smoothing and finishing.
- 180 grit is perfect for natural nails, preventing damage while effectively smoothing edges for a professional finish.
- Professional nail techs recommend a two-step approach: starting with coarser grits (80-100) and finishing with finer grits (180+).
- Reusable, washable files provide better durability and value for both professionals and DIY manicure enthusiasts.
Nail File 10 PCS Professional Double Sided Emery Board for Manicure & Pedicure
- Buy in Bulk : Each pack contains 10 black straight nail files
- Double Sided : With 100/180 Grit. Designed with a rounded top and double-sided functionality, they feature sandpaper on the surface and foam at the mid-level
- Reusable : These nail files can be used many times
For DIY manicure enthusiasts seeking salon-quality results at home, this 10-piece professional nail file set delivers exceptional value. Each black emery board features a smart double-sided design with 100 grit (coarse) for shaping and 180 grit (finer) for smoothing and finishing.
You’ll appreciate the thoughtful dimensions—179mm in length with a comfortable 19mm width—making these files easy to handle. The foam mid-layer guarantees durability while the rounded top improves grip. No worries about running out; with ten reusable files, you’ll have plenty for both home use and travel. Customers consistently praise their sturdiness and effectiveness compared to pricier drugstore alternatives.
Best For: Home manicure enthusiasts who want professional-quality nail shaping tools in bulk for both regular use and travel convenience.
Pros:
- Double-sided design with different grits (100/180) allows for complete nail care from shaping to fine finishing
- Excellent value with 10 durable, reusable files at a price point below typical drugstore options
- Comfortable dimensions (179mm length, 19mm width) with foam mid-layer for improved grip and handling
Cons:
- Some users may prefer wider files than the 19mm width offered
- Basic black design lacks color options for those who prefer more stylish accessories
- 100/180 grit combination might not satisfy users needing extra-fine finishing capabilities
80/80 Grit Nail Files (10 Pack) Double Sided for Acrylic and Gel Nails
- Durable and Coarse 80 Grit: The 80 grit nail files are super coarse, so that they can trim much more efficient and faster to remove false nails, gel nails, acrylic nails,...
- Heavy-Duty Emery Board Materials: Our 80/80 grit nail files are made with top-quality emery board material to provide a comfortable nail buffing experience; These...
- Ergonomic Curved Shape and Handy Size: Our nail files 80/80 are designed with a handy size of 7.1 inches long and a halfmoon/arc shape and double sides, so they are easy...
Professional-grade coarse grit nail files represent the workhorses of any serious nail tech’s toolkit, and this 10-pack of 80/80 grit files delivers exceptional performance for artificial nail systems. At 7.1 inches long with an ergonomic curved shape, you’ll find these files comfortable to maneuver around even the trickiest nail shapes.
They’re built with quality materials—heavy-duty sanding paper, EVA sponge core, and sturdy PP board backing—making them durable enough for repeated use. No worries about replacing them constantly; they’re washable and reusable.
Beyond salon applications, these versatile files work wonderfully for pet grooming, particularly for dogs who dislike nail clippers.
Best For: Professional nail technicians and at-home users working with acrylic, gel, dip powder, or poly extension nails who need durable, effective tools for shaping and shortening artificial nail systems.
Pros:
- Durable construction with quality materials (heavy-duty sanding paper, EVA sponge, PP board) makes them reusable and washable for long-term use
- Ergonomic curved design at 7.1 inches provides comfortable handling and easy maneuvering around different nail shapes
- Versatile functionality extends beyond nail care to pet grooming, offering a gentler alternative to nail clippers for dogs
Cons:
- The coarse 80/80 grit may be too aggressive for natural nails or finishing work that requires finer grits
- Pack of 10 might be excessive for casual at-home users who don’t frequently work with artificial nails
- Some users might prefer disposable files for hygiene purposes despite these being washable
Nail Files, 100/180 Grit Emery Boards (50 Pack)
- Enhanced Material Quality: These nail filers have been meticulously crafted using premium sandpaper, EVA, and Emery board materials. They are not only reusable and...
- 100/180 Grit Dual-Sided Nail Files: Each package contains 50 double-sided nail files, with one side featuring a coarse 100-grit texture, ideal for acrylic and thick...
- Perfect Shape and Size: HomeyEra's large nail files are intelligently designed in a square shape, with a generous length of 7.1 inches. This thoughtful design ensures...
These versatile double-sided emery boards deliver salon-quality results for anyone managing multiple nail types at home. At 7.1 inches long, they’re perfectly sized for easy handling during your manicure routine.
The 100-grit side tackles tough acrylic nails, while the 180-grit side gently shapes natural nails without causing damage. No worries about frequent replacements—these premium sandpaper files maintain their effectiveness through multiple uses and can even be washed.
With 50 in a pack, you’ll always have a fresh file ready. They’re equally effective for fingernails, toenails, and even pet grooming if needed.
Best For: Nail care enthusiasts, salon professionals, and home users who need versatile files for both natural and acrylic nails.
Pros:
- Double-sided design with 100-grit for acrylics and 180-grit for natural nails provides versatility for all nail types
- Generous pack of 50 durable, washable files ensures long-term value and always having fresh files on hand
- 7.1-inch length offers comfortable handling and control for precise nail shaping and finishing
Cons:
- May be too firm for users who prefer softer nail files
- Basic square design lacks ergonomic features found in premium salon tools
- Standard grit options might not satisfy professionals who need specialized grits for detailed work
Nail File 12 PCS Professional Reusable Double-Sided Manicure Tools
- Materials: Nail files are made with high-quality adhesive tape and emery board materials. Designed with double-sided functionality, these sturdy nail files provide a...
- Size: These essential nail art tools come in a set of 12 pieces, each measuring 7 x 1.10 x 0.17 inches.
- Make up：Must Have in Salons and Home- nail files are great for all your filing needs, Nails, Hobbies, Crafts. Must have in professional salons and diy nail art at home....
Serious nail enthusiasts and DIY manicurists will find exceptional value in this extensive 12-piece nail file set featuring the versatile 100/180 grit combination. Each file measures 7 x 1.10 x 0.17 inches, giving you perfect control during your nail shaping routine.
The double-sided design offers flexibility—use the 100 grit side for shaping and the finer 180 grit side for smoothing. No worries about durability; these files are water-resistant and washable for repeated use. They work effectively on natural, acrylic, and false nails alike.
Customers consistently praise their longevity compared to other brands, though some mention cleaning challenges after acrylic nail filing.
Best For: DIY nail enthusiasts and professionals seeking a comprehensive, reusable nail file set that works on various nail types and delivers salon-quality results at home.
Pros:
- Versatile 100/180 grit double-sided design allows for both shaping and finishing in one tool
- Durable, water-resistant construction enables washing and reuse, offering excellent long-term value
- Set of 12 professional-quality files provides ample supply for personal use or small salon settings
Cons:
- May be challenging to clean thoroughly after use on acrylic nails
- At 7 inches long, some users might find them larger than needed for travel or compact storage
- No carrying case or organizational solution included with the set
80/80 Grit Nail Files, Heavy Coarse Emery Boards for Acrylic Nails (24 Pack)
- Premium Emery Board Material: Crafted from high-quality Emery Boards, our 80/80 grit nail files, also known as limas 80/80 para uñas, ensure a comfortable nail filing...
- Robust and Highly Coarse 80 Grit: With their coarse 80 grit, these nail files excel at efficiently and swiftly trimming false nails, gel nails, acrylic nails, dip powder...
- Handy and Ergonomic Rectangular Design: Featuring a square shape with dual sides, our 80/80 nail files offer easy grip and handling. The broader dimensions enhance their...
Hardcore nail enthusiasts and professionals need the right tools for tackling tough artificial nails. These 80/80 grit emery boards deliver serious filing power in a practical 24-pack. At 7.1 inches long, they’re designed for comfortable handling during extended salon sessions.
You’ll find these double-sided workhorses perfect for shaping acrylic, gel, and poly extension nails with minimal effort. Their ultra-coarse grit efficiently removes artificial overlays without wearing down quickly. No worries about constant replacements—these durable files withstand multiple uses and can even be washed between clients.
Just remember: these aren’t for natural nails! Their aggressive grit works best on artificial materials where precision and power matter most.
Best For: Professional nail technicians and serious nail enthusiasts who regularly work with acrylic, gel, dip powder, and poly extension nails requiring aggressive shaping and filing.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty 80/80 grit efficiently removes and shapes artificial nail materials with minimal effort
- Durable, double-sided design that’s reusable, washable, and long-lasting through multiple sessions
- Ergonomic 7.1-inch length provides comfortable grip during extended nail appointments
Cons:
- Too aggressive for natural nails and may cause tearing or damage to softer nail types
- Requires pairing with finer grit files to achieve a smooth finish after initial shaping
- The ultra-coarse texture might be excessive for beginners or those doing light maintenance
Factors to Consider When Choosing Nail File Grit
When selecting the perfect nail file grit, you’ll need to match it to your specific nail type, filing goals, and the materials you’re working with. Your experience level matters too—beginners might want a less aggressive grit to avoid over-filing, while professionals can handle finer precision tools. Consider how often you’ll use the file, as durability requirements differ between occasional at-home manicures and daily professional use.
Nail Type
Your nail type plays an essential role in determining which grit nail file will work best for your manicure. Understanding this relationship helps prevent damage while achieving your desired shape.
If you’ve got acrylic or gel nails, reach for coarse grit files (80-100). These powerhouses quickly reshape thick artificial materials without requiring excessive pressure. For natural nails, however, these coarse files would be far too aggressive—no worries though! Fine grits (240+) are your natural nail’s best friend, smoothing edges without risking splits or tears.
Many nail techs keep medium grit files (150-180) on hand as versatile options that work reasonably well for both nail types. These middle-ground files strike a balance between effective shaping and gentle smoothing, making them practical for touch-ups on various nail compositions.
Filing Goal
Identifying the specific purpose of your nail filing session directly determines which grit you’ll need for ideal results. Different tasks require different tools—simple as that.
For shaping and trimming, reach for a coarser 80-grit file that efficiently removes bulk, especially when working with acrylics or gels. These files make quick work of dramatic length reductions and major reshaping projects.
If you’re smoothing natural nails, no worries—a medium 100-grit file provides enough gentle abrasion without causing damage. For that salon-perfect finish, finish with a fine 180-grit file that polishes away microscopic roughness.
Remember to match your file to your intention: coarse for dramatic shaping, medium for general maintenance, and fine for that polished, ready-for-lacquer surface that catches the light beautifully.
Material Compatibility
Because each nail type responds differently to abrasion, matching your file grit to the specific material you’re working with becomes vital for ideal results. The numerical grit rating—representing abrasive particles per square inch—directly impacts your filing effectiveness.
For artificial enhancements:
- Acrylics and gels: Use coarse grits (80-100) to efficiently shape and remove bulk
- Dip powder: Choose double-sided files combining both coarse and fine grits
For natural nails, stick with finer grits (180-240) to prevent tearing and damage. Remember, lower numbers mean rougher surfaces that remove material quickly, while higher numbers create smoother finishes.
No worries if you’re working with multiple nail types—just keep different grits on hand. Using the wrong grit can either damage soft nails or prove ineffective on thicker artificial enhancements, so proper matching is essential.
Durability Requirements
Beyond matching file grits to nail types, the longevity of your nail tools directly impacts both your budget and filing results. High-quality emery boards can handle multiple sessions without deteriorating, saving you money over time.
Look for nail files with thicker construction—they’ll withstand regular use much better than flimsy alternatives. Files with sturdy backings or foam mid-layers not only last longer but also provide more comfortable filing sessions.
When evaluating durability:
- Reusable, washable files offer the best long-term value
- Coarser grits (80-180) tend to wear down faster, especially on softer materials
- Files with finer grits (240+) typically maintain their effectiveness longer
No worries if you’ve been replacing files frequently—investing in a quality option with the right grit for your nail type will dramatically extend your tool’s lifespan.
Skill Level
Your personal experience with nail care greatly influences which file grit will work best for your manicure routine. If you’re just starting out, stick with finer grits (180+) to prevent accidental nail damage while you develop your technique. No worries—these gentler files still get the job done!
Intermediate users can explore more options. Try using a 100-180 grit file for initial shaping, then switch to finer grits for smoothing edges and finishing work. This two-step approach gives you greater control.
Advanced nail enthusiasts and professionals often reach for coarser files (80-100) when working with acrylics or gels. These lower grits remove product quickly and allow for efficient reshaping—perfect when you know exactly what you’re doing and need fast, precise results.
Health Considerations
When selecting nail file grits, protecting your natural nail health should remain a top priority. Using the wrong grit can lead to serious damage that’s not immediately obvious.
For natural nails, stick with finer grits (180+) to prevent tearing and splitting that can create entry points for infections. If you’re wearing acrylics or gels, you’ll need coarser options (80-100) designed specifically for these materials.
Remember that over-filing with too-coarse grits weakens your nails over time, leading to breakage and sensitivity issues. No worries if you’re unsure what to choose—a double-sided file with both coarse and fine grits offers versatility for different nail care needs.
Your nail bed health directly impacts overall nail strength, so matching the appropriate grit to your nail type isn’t just about appearance—it’s essential for long-term hand health.
Personal Comfort
Comfort during your nail filing session dramatically impacts both the final results and your overall experience. When selecting a nail file, the grit number directly correlates with how gentle the filing feels—higher numbers (180+) offer a softer touch perfect for sensitive natural nails, while lower numbers (80-100) can feel harsh if overused.
Consider your nail type before choosing: if you have soft, delicate nails, stick with finer grits to prevent discomfort. For acrylic or gel enhancements, you’ll need those coarser options, no worries.
The file’s physical attributes matter too. Look for ergonomically designed files that fit comfortably in your hand and reduce wrist strain. Thicker, more rigid files typically provide better control than flimsy ones that bend unpredictably during use, creating a frustrating filing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nail Files Cause Damage to Natural Nails?
Yes, nail files can damage your natural nails if used incorrectly. When you file with a grit that’s too coarse or saw back and forth, you’ll weaken nail layers. Always file in one direction and choose the right grit—180-240 for natural nails. Don’t file the sides too aggressively, and avoid filing clean nails when they’re wet. Using proper technique prevents splitting, peeling, and thinning that can take months to repair.
How Often Should I Replace My Nail Files?
“Out with the old, in with the new” applies perfectly to nail file maintenance. You should replace your glass or crystal files every 12 months with proper care. Emery boards need replacement more frequently—every 3-6 uses as they wear down faster. Metal files last longer but require disinfection between uses. Signs it’s time for replacement include smoothed-out abrasive surfaces, visible wearing, or files that no longer shape your nails effectively. No worries—regular replacement guarantees ideal nail health and shaping results.
Are Glass Nail Files Better Than Emery Boards?
Yes, glass nail files are generally better than emery boards. They’re more durable, lasting years with proper care versus weeks for emery boards. Glass files seal your nail’s keratin layers rather than shredding them, preventing peeling and breakage. They’re also washable and sanitizable, making them more hygienic. While they cost more upfront ($10-20 compared to $1-2 for emery boards), their longevity makes them the more economical and effective choice for nail health.
Which Grit Is Safest for Thin, Brittle Nails?
“A gentle touch keeps the nail intact.” For your thin, brittle nails, choose a very fine grit between 240-600. The higher the number, the gentler the file. A crystal or glass file with 600+ grit is ideal, as it seals the nail’s edge rather than shredding it. Always file in one direction—not back and forth—to prevent further damage. No worries if you’re new to this; starting with higher grits means you’ll avoid accidental over-filing.
Can I Sterilize Nail Files Between Uses?
Yes, you can sterilize nail files between uses, but the method depends on the material. Glass and metal files can be disinfected with 70% isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. For thorough cleaning, soak them in alcohol for 10 minutes. Emery boards and foam files are porous and can’t be fully sterilized, so it’s best to replace them regularly. No worries about salon-grade files though—they’re typically made to withstand proper sanitization with professional disinfectants.
