Should you pick out the dirt under your toenails?

Nov 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Feng

Introduction

In general, whether to remove dirt from under the toenails should be determined based on the nature of the debris, the condition of the toenails, and personal hygiene habits. If there is any discomfort or uncertainty about how to manage it, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. As part of daily care, soaking feet in warm water for 5–10 minutes each day can help soften the nails and cuticles, reducing the buildup of dirt; also, choose breathable shoes and socks.

Generally, whether to remove dirt from under the toenails should be determined based on the nature of the dirt, the condition of the toenails, and personal hygiene habits. If discomfort occurs or you are unsure how to proceed, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

If the dirt trapped in the toenail crevices consists only of external contaminants such as dust or soil, and if the toenails are intact without damage, redness, or pain, gentle cleaning may be performed. Use a clean cotton swab or soft-bristled brush to lightly wipe the crevices, taking care not to apply excessive force. After cleaning, wash your feet with warm water and dry them thoroughly to reduce odor and bacterial growth caused by accumulated debris.

If the dirt is accompanied by thickened, discolored, or brittle nails, or if there is redness, swelling, pain, or discharge around the nail folds, self-removal should be avoided. These symptoms often indicate injury or infection in the nail or surrounding tissues. Forceful picking may tear the nail bed, worsen inflammation, and even lead to paronychia (nail fold infection). In such cases, monitor symptoms closely and consult a healthcare professional when necessary.

As part of daily foot care, soak your feet in warm water for 5–10 minutes each day to soften the nails and dead skin, reducing the accumulation of dirt. Wear breathable shoes and socks, and keep your feet dry and clean to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. When trimming your nails, cut them straight across and avoid cutting the sides too short to prevent damaging the skin around the nail folds, thereby reducing the likelihood of dirt buildup and nail injuries at the source.

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What causes fluid to leak from under the big toe nail, and what should be done about it?

In general, fluid accumulation under the big toenail may be caused by trauma, moist irritation from non-breathable footwear or socks, paronychia, infected onychomycosis, or pyogenic granuloma. Depending on the specific situation, treatment options such as conservative management, medication, or surgical intervention can be considered to improve the condition. In daily life, it is important to wear breathable shoes and socks, keep the feet dry, avoid toe injuries, and avoid cutting toenails too short.

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What causes hard tissue to grow under the toenail, and what should be done about it?

Hard tissue growing under the toenail may result from prolonged pressure and friction, improper nail trimming, subungual warts, ingrown toenails with granulation tissue proliferation, or subungual exostosis. Management options include daily care, medication, or surgical treatment depending on the specific condition. It is important to wear properly fitting shoes and socks to avoid compression and friction on the toes, and to develop proper nail-cutting habits to prevent nail injury.

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Should a falling toenail be pulled out or left to fall off on its own?

In general, the management of a falling toenail should be determined based on specific circumstances. In most cases, toenails that loosen due to trauma or pressure do not need to be actively removed; they can be left to fall off naturally. However, if there is infection, ingrown nail, or severe separation of the nail from the nail bed, professional medical treatment is required. It is important to keep the feet clean and dry, wear loose and breathable footwear, and avoid pressing or irritating the affected area.