Cotton swabs How-To,DIY & Expert Content
Toothpick or paperclip
Small brush (an old toothbrush works)
Steps:
Soak a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Wipe down both blades, the lever, and the pivot pin.
Use a toothpick or paperclip to scrape debris from between the blades. Insert the paperclip into the hole to stabilize the clipper while you scrape.
Dip the small brush in alcohol and scrub the crevices.
Rinse with water (if the clipper is rust-resistant). Dry thoroughly.
Hang the clipper by the hole to air dry.
How often: After every use (quick wipe) and deep clean monthly.
A Brief History of the Nail Clipper (And That Hole)
The modern nail clipper was patented in 1875 by Valentine Fogerty, though similar tools existed before. The design has changed surprisingly little in 150 years.
Early clippers were often made of cast iron or steel. They were heavy, prone to rust, and expensive. The hole served a practical purpose: hanging the clipper on a nail in the workshop or bathroom.