How Does Vinegar Treat Nail Fungus?

Why Use Vinegar?

A nail fungus can infect toenails due to the damp conditions of sneakers and other shoes. A nail fungus can also be caught in a nail salon or public shower. Your doctor can prescribe treatments, including oral antibiotics, that can kill the fungus, but many find the home remedy of white vinegar less risky than a side-effect-inducing oral medication.

White Vinegar Treatment

Vinegar has been used for thousands of years in numerous ways. White vinegar usually has an acidity level of 4 percent--both the acidity and antiseptic properties of vinegar create an environment in which a nail fungus will not grow. Apply white vinegar to the nail with a saturated cotton ball, wiping from the base of the nail outward. Feet can also be soaked in a basin of white vinegar and water for 15 minutes. As the nail grows and is treated with the vinegar, the fungus is killed and will not infect new nail growth.

Continued Treatment

Use vinegar to treat nail fungus every day for about one month and closely monitor its effectiveness. You should begin to see new, clear nail growing from the cuticle. Clip nails short, cleaning the clippers with rubbing alcohol when finished. Keep using the vinegar treatment until the infected or discolored nail has completely grown out.