How to Thoroughly Clean Drill Bits for Acrylic Nails
What are Drill Bits?
Nail drill bits are used with an electric drill designed to shape and polish natural and artificial nails.
There are various types of nail drill bits, each designed for specific purposes in the manicure and nail care process. Here are some common types and their uses:
1. Mandrel Bits: Used for attaching sanding bands to polish and shape.
2. Carbide Bits:
- Fine Grit Cone Bit: Ideal for precision work on the sidewalls and cuticles.
- Medium Grit Barrel Bit: Suitable for surface filing and shaping.
3. Diamond Bits:
- Round Diamond Bit: Used for cuticle work and refining the nail shape.
- Flat-Top Diamond Bit: Ideal for surface filing and removing product buildup.
4. Ceramic Bits:
- Under Nail Cleaner Bit: Designed for cleaning and shaping underneath the nails.
- Safety Bit: Used for cuticle work without the risk of cutting.
Why clean drill bits?
Prevents cuticle and nail infections – When using your nail drill, parts of your skin can be broken. If your nail bit isn’t properly sterilized, the germs on the nail bit can enter your skin and cause an infection. Regular cleaning of nail drill bits helps prevent cross-contamination between clients. Residue from previous use may carry bacteria or fungi, and proper cleaning ensures a hygienic environment for each client, reducing the risk of infections or other health issues. Clean and disinfect tools after each client according to the policies of your state’s cosmetology board.
Prolonged Tool Lifespan - Cleaning drill bits not only maintains their effectiveness but also extends their lifespan. Residue buildup can lead to corrosion or dulling of the bit, reducing its cutting efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance contribute to the longevity of the drill bits, saving costs on replacements and ensuring consistent performance.
How to clean drill bits:
This method can be used to clean nail drill bits that are made of ceramic, carbide, diamond bits, or any metal nail bit.
Materials needed:
Stiff brush
Warm soapy water
Clean towels
Disinfectant
Clean container
Time needed: 25 minutes
*Always wear the right gloves for the product you are using while cleaning and handling disinfectants or tools soaked in disinfectant.
Use a stiff brush to brush off any residue such as acrylic dust on the nail bits.
Scrub with warm soapy water (I use Dawn, but any non-fragranced soap should do)
Let them dry to not change the dilution of the disinfectant.
Now, soak your nail bit in Lucas-Cide or Barbicide (following the manufacturer's directions).
Rinse off disinfection in clean water to avoid introducing new contaminants to the bit.
Dry tools with a clean cloth. I spread the metal bits out so that they’re not touching one another (this helps avoid oxidation, aka, rust).
Store your tools in a clean container. If the inside of your case or bit bin is loaded with debris, then all your hard work above is for nothing!
https://www.dllr.state.md.us/forms/barberscossanitationguide.pdf
Get certified: https://www.barbicide.com/
Final Thoughts:
Be sure to clean the drill itself of dust and debris before using these clean, new bits on your next client. Continue to practice proper sanitation and your clients will always appreciate you!