How to whiten nails at home: 5 simple ways

Dull nails are a common problem that many people face. The reasons can vary: frequent use of nail polish, especially dark shades, vitamin deficiency, or exposure to household contaminants. You don’t have to spend money on expensive salon treatments to restore the whiteness and shine of your nails. At Joy-pup, we’ll share simple and affordable methods for whitening nails at home.

Why Do Nails Turn Yellow?

Discoloration of the nails is often linked to nail polish use, especially if you favor dark colors like red, blue, or black. Without a protective base coat, pigments can penetrate the nail plate and leave stains. Additionally, yellowing can be caused by vitamin deficiency, fungal infections, or contact with staining substances such as coffee or cigarettes. To prevent this problem, always apply a base coat before polish — it creates a barrier that protects your nails. If stains have already appeared, read below for effective ways to restore your nails’ natural whiteness. Most of the ingredients for these methods are already in your home.

1. Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

A mixture of lemon juice and baking soda creates a powerful cleansing paste that quickly brightens dull nails. The citric acid dissolves stains, while the baking soda gently exfoliates the surface.

You will need:

• Half a lemon
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• A small bowl
• An old toothbrush

Instructions:

1. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon into the bowl.
2. Add the baking soda and mix until you get a thick paste.
3. Apply the paste to your nails and leave it on for 10 minutes.
4. Gently scrub the nails with the toothbrush, focusing on stained areas.
5. Rinse off the paste with warm water and mild soap, then apply a moisturizer.

If you don’t have baking soda on hand, you can substitute it with table salt. Salt also acts as a mild abrasive and, when combined with lemon juice, effectively removes stains.

2. Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is a simple and accessible way to lighten nails. It contains active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or baking soda that are great at reducing yellowing.

You will need:

• Whitening toothpaste
• Cotton pads
• Nail buffer

Instructions:

1. Buff your nails to smooth the surface.
2. Apply a thin layer of whitening toothpaste to your nails.
3. Leave it on for 10 minutes.
4. Gently rub the nails with a cotton pad.
5. Rinse off with warm water.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective agent for whitening nails. It helps remove even stubborn stains, including those caused by organic substances.

You will need:

• 1 teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda
• 125 ml of warm water
• A small bowl

Instructions:

1. Mix the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda in the bowl.
2. Add warm water and stir until the baking soda dissolves completely.
3. Soak your nails in the solution for 5–10 minutes.
4. Rinse your hands with warm water.
5. Apply moisturizer to avoid skin dryness.

If the stains haven’t completely disappeared, repeat the procedure in a few days. Hydrogen peroxide can dry out the skin, so avoid overuse.

4. Vinegar

Household vinegar is a mild acid that effectively removes nail stains. Be sure to use clear vinegar to avoid additional staining.

You will need:

• 1 tablespoon of household vinegar
• 1 cup of warm water
• A small bowl

Instructions:

1. Mix the vinegar and warm water in the bowl.
2. Soak your nails in the solution for 10 minutes.
3. Rinse your hands with warm water and dry with a towel.
4. Apply moisturizer.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is best known for its antifungal properties, but it also helps restore the natural color of nails, especially when yellowing is caused by a fungal infection.

You will need:

• 2–3 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of any carrier oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil)
• Cotton pad

Instructions:

1. Mix the tea tree oil with the carrier oil of your choice.
2. Apply the mixture to your nails using a cotton pad.
3. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes or overnight for stronger results.
4. Rinse with warm water and apply moisturizer.
5. Repeat the procedure twice daily for several weeks.

Read also: Trendy pistachio manicure for summer 2025.