Alternatively, trim your nails as soon as you get out of the shower since they’ll already be softened. If you have really thick toenails from fungus, then try soaking your nails for up to 30 minutes so the moisture can penetrate deeper. Try adding in 1 teaspoon (6 g) of salt for every 1 US pint (470 ml) of water you use for your foot soak if your nails are difficult to cut. The salt will help soften your nails so they’re easier to cut through. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source

You may need to apply the urea cream nightly for a few days until your nails become soft. Avoid applying too much pressure when you’re filing the surface of your nail. If you feel any pain, stop filing right away.

If your nail starts feeling hot or if you feel any pain, stop using your electric file right away since you could break through the nail.

Avoid using nail clippers that are small and made for cutting fingernails since they won’t be able to fully cut through your nail. Fungus is contagious, so don’t share your nail nippers with anyone else. [6] X Expert Source Marta NagorskaNail Artist Expert Interview. 26 May 2021.

Make your cut through the white part at the end of your nail so you don’t accidentally cut into your nail bed.

Filing your nails will prevent them from snagging on your socks, which could cause further irritation or injury.

Use a separate pair of clippers for your fingernails so you can avoid any cross-contamination with toenail fungus.

Alternatively, you can use a disinfectant like Barbicide made specifically for killing fungus on beauty and nail care tools.

If you use a file made of metal or glass, you can disinfect it with rubbing alcohol and use it again.

If your toenails are too thick to cut on your own or if it hurts when you try trimming them, then your doctor will be able to trim them for you. You can try using over-the-counter nail fungus remover, but it might not get rid of all of the fungus. If you have swelling or pain around your toenails or if you have trouble walking, see your doctor immediately. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source