How to Properly Disinfect and Sterilise Your Staleks Nail Tools

When it comes to nail services, your clients trust you not only to make their nails look beautiful, but also to keep them safe. One of the most important parts of salon hygiene is taking proper care of your nail tools. Clean, disinfected, and sterilised tools don’t just protect your clients - they also help extend the life of your nippers, scissors, pushers, and other professional instruments.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to caring for your nail tools the right way.

Step 1: Disinfection

The first step is disinfection. This process removes pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms from the surface of your tools, but keep in mind: disinfection does not make tools sterile.

• Place instruments in a disinfecting solution designed for metal tools
  
• Ensure they are fully covered by at least 1 cm of solution.
• Always follow the concentration and exposure time recommended by the manufacturer.
  
• After disinfection, rinse thoroughly to prevent corrosion or buildup.
  

FYI: Avoid acids, alkalis, or disinfectants with active oxygen - these can cause corrosion and reduce your tools’ durability.

Step 2: Pre-Sterilisation Cleaning

After disinfection, you’ll need to remove any residues such as nail dust, skin particles, or traces of disinfectant. Skipping this step risks damaging the tool surface during sterilization.

• Wash with a brush and detergent, paying extra attention to cutting edges.
  
• Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove detergent.
  
• Dry completely before moving on.
  

If you use an ultrasonic cleaner, this can make the process easier and more thorough - just avoid using abrasive or metal brushes.

Step 3: Drying

Proper drying is essential before sterilization.

• Wipe tools with a disposable towel.
  
• Lay them out in a single layer so they don’t overlap.
  
• Once dry, place them into sterilization pouches.
  

FYI: If tools are left damp during sterilization, they can corrode.

Step 4: Sterilisation

This is the final step and the only way to make tools completely safe for reuse. There are two main types:

• Thermal Sterilisation - Performed in an autoclave (using steam) or a dry-heat sterilizer.

Autoclave: 134°C for 20 minutes, with distilled water under pressure.

Dry heat: 180°C for 60 minutes, or 160°C for 150 minutes.

Always allow tools to cool inside the sterilizer. Rapid cooling can damage the metal and increase the need for frequent sharpening.

• Chemical (Cold) Sterilisation - Done with special sterilizing solutions that don’t require heat. This method is effective against all microorganisms, including spores, and is particularly recommended for tools with painted surfaces, which could be damaged by high temperatures.

Final Thoughts

Proper tool care isn’t just about compliance - it’s about protecting your clients and your business. Following these four essential steps will keep your nail tools hygienic, sharp, and long-lasting, ensuring every manicure and pedicure is carried out to the highest professional standards.

Looking for professional-grade nail tools? Explore the full Staleks Pro collection here