How to Fix Broken Nail Clippers: The Quickest and Easiest Method

Updated at: 08/01/2025

Frustrating, isn't it? You're ready for a manicure, and your trusty nail clippers decide to malfunction. A jammed spring, a loose blade, or a completely broken lever can quickly derail your grooming routine. Many people immediately reach for a new pair, assuming repair is impossible. But before you toss those clippers in the trash, consider this: a simple fix might be all it takes to restore them to their former glory. We've all experienced the annoyance of a broken tool hindering a simple task, and nail clippers are no exception.

This seemingly insignificant household item plays a surprisingly crucial role in our daily lives. Luckily, solving most common nail clipper issues doesn’t require advanced tools or technical expertise. In this guide, we'll walk you through the quickest and easiest method for fixing your broken nail clippers, saving you money and frustration. Let's get started with our step-by-step instructions.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always unplug electrical clippers before attempting any repairs. Never work on live electrical components.
  • If you're unsure about any repair step, or if the clippers are severely damaged, it's best to replace them instead of attempting a repair. Improper repairs can lead to injury.
  • Use appropriate tools for the job. Using the wrong tool can damage the clipper and potentially cause injury.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Identify Components

    • the clipping part, the handle, and the small pin.
    Identify the three parts: the clipping part, the handle, and the small pin.
    Identify Components

  2. Locate Bottom Part

    • Locate the bottom of the nail clipper (usually flat).
    Locate the bottom of the nail clipper (usually flat).
    Locate Bottom Part

  3. Insert Pin

    • Insert the small pin into its hole on the bottom part.
    Insert the small pin into its hole on the bottom part.
    Insert Pin

  4. Align Pin Hook

    • Note the hook on the pin; align it correctly before proceeding.
    Note the hook on the pin; align it correctly before proceeding.
    Align Pin Hook

  5. Attach Handle

    • Push the handle up, aligning the hook on the pin with the corresponding part on the handle.
    • Ensure the hook on the pin is securely over the handle's groove.
    Ensure the hook on the pin is securely over the handle's groove.Ensure the hook on the pin is securely over the handle's groove.
    Attach Handle

Read more: Mastering Nail Filing Techniques: A Guide to Perfect Nail Prep

Tips

  • It might take some pressure to correctly align and secure the parts.
  • The groove on the bottom part helps to hold the clipper more steadily, but isn't strictly necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Dull Clippers

Reason: Dull clippers require more force to cut nails, leading to bending or breaking the clippers.
Solution: Sharpen the clippers using a nail file or replace them with a new pair.

2. Applying Too Much Pressure

Reason: Excessive force can damage the lever mechanism or cause the cutting blades to misalign.
Solution: Use a gentle, even pressure while cutting your nails.

3. Ignoring Minor Issues

Reason: Small problems like loose screws or bent springs are often overlooked, eventually leading to more significant damage.
Solution: Tighten loose screws or carefully straighten bent components using small pliers.

FAQs

My nail clipper's spring is broken. Can I still fix it?
Unfortunately, a broken spring is usually the hardest part to fix and often requires replacement. You might find a replacement spring online or at a hardware store, but it's a more complex repair than tightening a screw.
The cutting blade is dull. Is there a way to sharpen them?
While you can try sharpening very slightly with a fine grit sharpening stone, it's usually not worth the effort. Nail clippers are inexpensive, and replacing a dull pair is often easier and more effective than trying to sharpen them.