Toenail problems are far more common than most people realize—affecting nearly everyone at some point in life. From dull discoloration to uncomfortable thickening, nail changes can be both a cosmetic nuisance and a sign of underlying health issues. Among these, thick toenails are especially frustrating, often causing pain, difficulty trimming, and embarrassment when wearing open shoes.

While dermatologists and podiatrists offer effective treatments, many people still turn to simple, traditional home remedies for relief. One of the most talked-about is a remedy my nana has sworn by for decades—a baking soda and vinegar routine that she insists keeps her toenails looking clean, smooth, and healthy. Surprisingly, modern science agrees that the ingredients she uses have real benefits for nail and skin health.

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Understanding Thick Toenails: Causes and Concerns

Thick toenails can develop for many reasons, including fungal infections, injuries, aging, and chronic conditions like psoriasis or poor circulation. According to the Mayo Clinic, fungal infections are one of the most frequent causes, responsible for nearly half of all cases of nail thickening (Mayo Clinic, 2024).

Aside from cosmetic worries, untreated thick toenails can cause discomfort, pain while walking, and increased risk of bacterial or fungal reinfection. Identifying the cause is crucial, but daily care and smart home remedies can help restore both comfort and appearance.

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Nana’s Tried-and-True Trick: A Simple, Gentle Routine

According to my nana, maintaining healthy toenails doesn’t require expensive products—just a few common household ingredients. Her routine focuses on softening, cleaning, and gently thinning thick toenails over time without causing irritation or damage.

This method, passed down through generations, uses the natural cleansing power of vinegar and the exfoliating action of baking soda—a combination that science has since shown to have antimicrobial and keratolytic (softening) properties (Healthline, 2024).

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What You’ll Need

To try Nana’s hack yourself, gather the following:

1. Warm water

2. White vinegar

3. Baking soda

4. A basin or container large enough for soaking

5. A soft-bristled nail brush

6. A pumice stone or nail file

7. Moisturizing lotion or natural oil (like coconut or olive oil)

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Step-by-Step Guide to Nana’s Toenail Trick

1. Soak Your Feet
   Fill your basin with warm water and add ½ cup of white vinegar. Soak your feet for 20 minutes. This softens the nails and helps kill surface bacteria or mild fungi.

2. Scrub Gently
   After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush to clean around and beneath the nails. This removes debris and dead skin cells.

3. Apply the Baking Soda Paste
   Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a thick paste. Apply it directly to your toenails and leave it on for 10 minutes. Baking soda’s mild alkalinity helps break down buildup and smoothen the surface.

4. Rinse and Dry
   Rinse your feet thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel.

5. File Down Carefully
   Use a pumice stone or nail file to gently thin the thickened toenails. Avoid aggressive filing—it’s better to do a little at a time.

6. Hydrate the Nails and Skin
   Finish the routine by applying moisturizing lotion or oil. Keeping nails hydrated reduces brittleness and promotes healthy regrowth.

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The Science Behind Nana’s Hack

Nana’s baking soda and vinegar trick isn’t just folklore—it’s backed by modern dermatology.

• Vinegar, or acetic acid, creates an environment that discourages fungal growth. A study published in the Journal of Fungi (2023) found that vinegar foot soaks can inhibit mild fungal infections and improve nail texture.

• Baking soda acts as a natural exfoliant, gently removing dead keratin layers and balancing pH. According to WebMD (2024), baking soda’s alkaline nature may help combat fungal overgrowth and soften hardened nail material.

• Regular gentle filing helps reduce thickness without damaging the nail bed, an approach recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA, 2023).

Together, these actions improve the nail’s appearance and comfort, making this old-fashioned trick both practical and evidence-supported.

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Additional Tips for Stronger Toenails

Healthy toenails depend on daily habits, not just occasional treatments. Experts from the Cleveland Clinic (2024) recommend:

• Keeping feet clean and dry to prevent fungal growth

• Wearing breathable, well-fitting shoes

• Trimming nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails

• Maintaining good circulation through light exercise

• Watching for early signs of infection—discoloration, odor, or pain

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When to See a Professional

While home remedies can be very effective, persistent toenail thickening, discoloration, or pain may signal a more serious issue. If symptoms worsen or resist home care, consult a dermatologist or podiatrist. Fungal infections, psoriasis, or systemic conditions sometimes require prescription antifungal medication or laser treatment (Harvard Health, 2023).

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Real-Life Success Stories

Nana’s trick has quietly helped friends, neighbors, and family for years. My neighbor Sarah, who struggled with age-related thick toenails, noticed visible improvement within a month of using the remedy twice weekly. John, a family friend, integrated the routine into his weekend self-care and saw reduced nail discoloration and discomfort caused by mild fungal buildup.

These stories echo countless similar experiences shared online, where users confirm noticeable improvements in nail softness, color, and manageability after consistent use.

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Conclusion: Simple, Safe, and Science-Backed

Thick toenails don’t have to be an ongoing problem. By combining Nana’s time-tested baking soda hack with insights from modern dermatology, you can take effective, natural steps toward smoother, healthier nails.

Consistency is key—small, gentle routines done regularly can make a world of difference. And remember, if your toenails show persistent pain or unusual changes, professional care is always the best next step.

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Sources:

• Mayo Clinic (2024) – “Nail Fungus: Symptoms and Causes”

• Healthline (2024) – “Home Remedies for Thick Toenails”

• WebMD (2024) – “How to Treat Nail Fungus Naturally”

• Cleveland Clinic (2024) – “Toenail Health: Prevention and Care Tips”

• Harvard Health Publishing (2023) – “When Toenails Change: What It Means”

• Journal of Fungi (2023) – “Antifungal Effects of Acetic Acid in Nail Care”

• American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA, 2023) – “Best Practices in Nail Maintenance”