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Best baby nail clippers for a safe trim
While likely to bring new parents out in a cold sweat, regularly trimming your baby’s nails is essential. A practical pair of the best baby nail clippers can take the dread out of the task at hand and make nail-cutting a pain-free process – for both you and your child.
By Louise Cole | Last updated Aug 2, 2023
Rapid-growing and razor-sharp, without regular attention unkempt baby nails can leave your little one looking like they’ve gone 10 rounds with a bramble bush. Trimming their miniature nails helps to prevent accidental scratches – both self-inflicted and to those within reach – as well as an unhygienic build-up of gunk beneath them. Yet the job of cutting the tiny talons of a squirming, screaming or even sleeping baby can be daunting for even the most competent of parents.
With such diddy digits, unintentionally drawing blood is all too easily done. Luckily, the best baby nail clippers, a newborn essential for many parents, can take the terror out of trimming. However, when it comes to baby care products, you want to know that what you're buying – whether it's the best baby thermometer or a playpen to keep your little one safe – actually works effectively and makes your life easier.
To help you choose the best nail clippers for a baby, we’ve thoroughly researched the top ones on the market with the help of countless consumer reviews and discerning Mumsnet users, taking into account their honest recommendations as to which tried-and-tested tools make the cut. Our forums are the largest online network of parents in the UK and we always ensure that's the first port of call for all of our parenting Swears By guides, covering everything from the the best baby walker and the best bath toys, so you can be sure you're investing in something rated by real mums and dads.
Prepare to ditch those scratch mitts. Here are the best baby nail clippers UK 2023.
The best baby nail clippers: at a glance
1. Best overall baby nail clippers: The First Years Deluxe Nail Clipper with Magnifier
Price on writing: £12.28 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Magnifies baby’s nails
Excellent grip
What to know
Magnifier feels slightly flimsy
May not cut through newborns’ soft nails first time
What Mumsnet users say
“The First Years do a great baby nail clipper that’s very comfortable to use and has a magnifying glass on it.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user JoyS)
“Some people prefer nail files or little scissors for baby nails, but I found baby nail clippers the easiest (and least scary) to use.” (Type of product vetted by Mumsnet user EarlGreywithLemon)
Our verdict
This cleverly-designed pair of baby nail clippers offers users a clear and close-up view of titchy fingers and toes thanks to its handy four-times magnifier. With thousands of five-star reviews and popular with parents from Merseyside to Mexico, its oversized handle is easy to grip and comfortable to hold, boosting users’ cutting confidence.
The magnifier helps to reduce eye strain and while it may take some getting used to – with many reviewers of the opinion that it’s more of a hindrance than a help – it can always be folded away when not required.
For more baby care essentials, don't miss our guide to the best baby toothbrush too, as recommended by Mumsnet users.
2. Best budget baby nail clippers: Tommee Tippee Essentials Baby Nail Clippers
Price on writing: £3 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Affordable
User-friendly
What to know
Lacks grip
Limited visibility
What Mumsnet users say
“I use Tommee Tippee nail clippers when baby is asleep or chilled out.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user ChocolateAddictionIsReal)
Our verdict
Budget-conscious parents will appreciate these low-priced but high-quality clippers that have a moulded handle and rounded edge that’s ideal for little nails. Easy to use due to their simplicity, they are suitable for newborns and beyond, yet some parents suggest that they may be better suited to toddlers.
It can be a bit tricky to see what you’re snipping, but countless happy customers make it clear that this no-frills pair of baby nail clippers is nevertheless met with approval the world over. And at under £3, you can’t really go wrong.
For more budget baby health essentials, don't miss our pick of the best baby nasal aspirators, as suggested by Mumsnet users.
3. Most innovative baby nail clippers: Stylfile Nipper Clipper
Price on writing: £7.89 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Easy to see what’s being clipped
No cutting sound
What to know
May be bigger than expected
App adds to baby’s screen time
What Mumsnet users say
“I bought Stylfile’s Nipper Clipper and still use it now with my son (he’s six). I like the viewing window at the end so you can see exactly what you're doing. They’re great!” (Recommended by Mumsnet user sanityisamyth)
“We have these and have used them since my daughter was a little baby. I can't recommend them enough. She’s three now and I can whip through her nails in seconds. They are just ace.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user ReginaFilange001)
“These are fab!” (Vetted by Mumsnet user tattiehat)
Our verdict
Who knew that a small hole in a pair of clippers would make such a big difference to the whole baby nail-cutting rigmarole? Mumsnetters rave about Stylfile’s ingenious Nipper Clipper, which boasts a convenient safety spy hole so that parents can see exactly what they’re trimming, thereby reducing the likelihood of any painful accidents.
With a scissor-like action that’s almost silent – perfect for use when your baby is asleep – these clippers come with a tiny, curved emery board to smooth nails afterwards. Also included is a Tommy Tickle Baby distraction app, which can be downloaded to divert baby’s attention and that parents can control with their voice while clipping. But this does, of course, encourage additional screen time so another method of distraction, like using one of the best baby toys such as a projector which also keeps their hands free, may be better.
4. Best baby nail clippers for newborns: Boots Baby Nail Clippers & Scissors Set
Price on writing: £3.75 | Buy now from Boots
What we love
Easy to use
Scissors and nail file included
Affordable
What to know
Scissors lack quality of clippers
Clippers may be fiddly for large hands
What Mumsnet users say
“I found Boots’ own-brand clippers to be the only ones that worked. I was really scared at first, but you soon get used to it.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user Chloek93)
Our verdict
Newborns’ teeny fingers and toes need an equally weeny pair of nail clippers. This pint-sized set from Boots also comes with small scissors and a useful little nail file, meaning that parents can clip, snip and smooth their baby’s nails, ensuring that they’re free from any sharp points or roughness after cutting (as well as scratches to themselves or you). While the straight-edged scissors may disappoint on the quality front, this set remains a recommended buy because of the superb baby nail clippers alone.
Plus, if you're compiling a shopping list preparing for your new baby, we also carefully researched the best toys for newborns, with plenty of recommendations tried and tested by real parents.
5. Best baby nail clippers for precision: NailSnail Baby Nail Trimmer
Price on writing: £19.50 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Three functions
Dishwasher safe
What to know
Pricey
Can be tricky to get a neat edge while trimming
What Mumsnet users say
“NailSnail is brilliant. It's impossible to cut babies’ skin and it’s made nail-cutting so easy.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Pinktruffle)
Our verdict
This noiseless nail-kit-in-one features a fine nail file underneath and the snail’s tail acts as an under-nail cleaner. The mollusc design of NailSnail’s Baby Nail Trimmer also belies the speed with which you can cut your baby’s nails when using it. With an easy-grip, snail-shaped handle, it trims by gliding along the fingernail with its V-shaped blade, unlike conventional nail clippers.
Safe for even the tiniest of babies – including premature infants – and kids right up until they start school, we love that this trimmer can go in the dishwasher to get rid of germs and dirt. While at the pricier end of the market, it’s still well worth shelling out on if your budget allows.
6. Best baby nail clippers for anxious parents: Cherish Baby Care Electric Nail Trimmer
Price on writing: £17.99 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Suitable from birth up to 12 months and beyond
Replacement filing pads available
What to know
Bulkier than regular clippers
Battery-operated
What Mumsnet users say
“I bought this silent electric nail file on Amazon and it’s amazing. It has different pads for each age as the nails change as they get older and I still use it now as it’s so gentle (he’s one years old).” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user kazzikaz)
“I was given a mechanical emery board, which has different buffers for use as the nails get stronger and thicker. It's gentle and easy to use, but gets it done quickly and efficiently.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user ShootingStar94)
“I have an electric file from Amazon and it’s great. I couldn’t get my son to stay still to cut his nails, but now have them all done in a couple of minutes.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Temple29)
Our verdict
Falling slightly outside of the clippers category, we’ve included Cherish Baby Care’s gentle Electric Nail Trimmer in our roundup for apprehensive parents who’d prefer to avoid sharp tools when tackling their baby’s nails. Whisper-quiet so as not to startle, the gadget comes with a quartet of circular filing pads for different stages of your baby’s growth as well as two filing speeds.
At just under £20, it’s both dearer and bulkier than conventional clippers, but there’s no chance of accidental nicks to your baby’s skin, meaning that parents’ worries will disappear as quickly as their little one’s talons. Suitable for infants through to toddlers, this ergonomically-designed tool also comes with a handy storage case.
Read next: From budget-friendly choices to options suitable for newborns, we've thoroughly tried and tested the best baby bouncers for your little one.
7. Best baby nail clippers set: Milky Tee Baby Nail Care & Grooming Kit
Price on writing: £12.95 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Cute design
Great gift idea
Four-in-one set
What to know
May contain superfluous items
What Mumsnet users say
“A little baby nail file set [would make a lovely gift for new parents]. Those nails get sharp quickly!” (Type of gift recommended by Mumsnet user WheelieBinPrincess)
“Nail clipper sets – I didn’t think to buy one, but my friend did and I used it constantly as babies’ nails grow so quickly.” (Gift idea from Mumsnet user HollyDollyDooDaa)
Our verdict
With a friendly face and keeping all nail-related items in one place, this cute four-in-one set comes with everything required for a mini mani or petite pedi.
Clippers, scissors, nail file and tweezers – all of which are well-made – are included and can be hidden away inside the super-sweet polar bear case that commands pride of place in any nursery or bathroom (and speaking of bath time, don't miss our in-depth guide to the best baby shampoo too). This kit also makes the ideal gift for expectant parents, with its gender-neutral design and colours.
The baby nail clippers themselves are user-friendly, having a non-slip design and curved blades. In fact, the only thing we’re not so keen on is the price tag as you can get cheaper sets.
8. Best baby nail clippers for easy visibility: Safety 1st Sleepy Baby Nail Clippers
Price on writing: £14.95 | Buy now from Amazon
What we love
Built-in light
Non-slip handle
What to know
May be too small for toddlers' nails
Too bright for some parents
Our verdict
Lighten up with these illuminating clippers, which make the job of cutting your baby’s nails child’s play.
The best time to get to grips with your little one’s nails is when they’re napping, often achieved after they've worn themselves out during playtime – we've found some of the best sensory toys for babies can help with this! However, that can often mean there’s limited lighting, which is where these smart clippers come into their own. A light comes on when the clippers’ arm is lifted, giving parents an excellent view of tiny hands while simultaneously easing any nerves
An auto shut-off function prolongs battery life by turning off the light after four mins of inactivity, while the curved blades cut cleanly and efficiently. However, parents suggest that these clippers may be more geared towards younger infants than toddlers.
What’s the best way to trim a baby’s nails?
Ensure that your little one is either asleep or sufficiently distracted before you get the nail clippers out – using sharp tools on a wriggling, fussing baby is likely to end in disaster. A second pair of hands to hold, feed or distract a wakeful child is ideal, otherwise try switching on the telly. Waiting until your baby is asleep is generally advisable though, as is tackling the task after bath time when nails are softer.
Firmly holding your baby’s hand or foot, press the finger or toe pad away from the nail to prevent cuts to their delicate skin. Nail clippers should be sharp enough to cut through the nail first time. Trim a limited amount with each cut, keeping nails fairly straight – to avoid ingrowing nails and infections – and not too short. Once nails are a suitable length, use a fine emery board to smooth any rough edges.
If your baby is asleep, clip the nails on one hand or foot at a time to stop your child becoming cold with the necessary removal of bedding, socks or other clothing.
If the clippers accidentally catch the skin, gently hold a piece of clean tissue or damp cotton wool to the cut, applying a little pressure to help stop any bleeding. Avoid the temptation to use a plaster – it could end up in your baby’s mouth and could choke them. Instead, cover the hand or foot with a scratch mitt, glove or baby sock that can be removed once the bleeding stops.
Finally, if you’re truly struggling to cut your baby’s nails, do just one or two on each attempt until all of them are clipped.
When can you use clippers on a baby?
Clippers can be used on a baby from the day they’re born – even if that’s prematurely.
Babies’ nails, particularly those on their fingers, grow astonishing quickly and may need cutting down to size up to twice a week (or fortnightly to monthly for toenails). Always consult manufacturers’ guidelines for age suitability and choose an appropriate pair for your child.
Which nail clippers are best for baby?
The best baby nail clippers are The First Years’ Deluxe Nail Clipper with Magnifier, rated positively by parents worldwide for giving users the confidence to cut their little one’s nails. While the magnifier may be seen as merely a gimmick by some parents, these easy-grip clippers are fairly priced, comfortable to use and quite simply do their job. They’re also great for popping in your changing bag when out and about.
How we chose our recommendations
The majority of products featured in our roundup made the cut following recommendations from real parents, who’ve tried and tested various types and brands of baby nail clippers.
We first spent several hours scouring the Mumsnet forums to discover which baby nail clippers performed well, instilled cutting confidence and were rated most highly among honest Mumsnetters.
We noted their ease of use, quality, affordability and standout features and were careful to avoid any that performed poorly. From there, our research took us across the wider web, where we consulted independent expert review sites and considered what consumer reviews said about the products featured, ensuring that customers were satisfied with their purchases.
Having collated all that information, we then drew up a shortlist of the baby nail clippers that were repeatedly mentioned, picking only those that we thought were worthy of taking the titles in an array of interest categories.
About the author
Louise Cole is a writer and editor with more than a decade’s print journalism experience, having worked for several daily newspapers and as editor of a glossy lifestyle magazine.
She has written articles on topics from parenting and pets to lifestyle and travel, and her work has featured in national publications. Wanderlust runs through her veins and she has travelled extensively to dozens of countries and visited all habitable continents.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.
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