Longest Reach Nail Clippers for Disabled People: Why the Soulo Extended Handle Trimmer Stands Out in 2025
As you get older or if you have a physical disability, you can find yourself straining to reach your toenails. It makes you beg the question “Ok, what is the longest reach toenail clipper I can buy?”. I recently found a solution to this from a new company in USA. The product is called Soulo and is an electric nail file with a very long reach!
Joint pain, fatigue, or limited mobility can make bending over for personal care impossible. Extended-reach nail clippers fill that gap, offering a practical way to manage something that’s both routine and personal. And while help from others is sometimes necessary, asking for help with this can be embarrassing or expensive if you need to book a foot care visit. Most people would prefer to do these things themselves if they can find a gadget to help.
Why Standard Nail Clippers Don’t Cut It
Traditional clippers assume you can bend comfortably, steady your hands, and apply force with precision. That rules out a huge number of people — from wheelchair users to those with arthritis, spinal injuries, balance issues, or fatigue from conditions like MS or long COVID.
The reality is that conventional nail care tools aren’t designed with accessibility in mind. They require a combination of flexibility, grip strength, coordination, and mobility that many disabled people don’t have or can’t maintain consistently.
What is the Nail Clipper with the Longest Reach?
The longest reach nail clipper currently available is the Soulo Electric Nail Trimmer, featuring a curved handle design that extends your reach by approximately 18-20 inches /46-50cms. This extended reach nail clipper means that you don’t have to bend over as far making it great for wheelchair users, people with back problems, or anyone with limited flexibility.
Unlike traditional long handle nail clippers that still require significant grip strength, the Soulo’s electric rotary system provides maximum reach nail trimming without the physical strain. Its extended handle nail care design specifically fixes the problem of reaching toenails when bending isn’t possible.
For those seeking extra long nail clippers that prioritise both reach and safety, the Soulo’s curved handle provides superior positioning compared to straight long reach toenail clippers or manual extended grip nail trimmers.
The Soulo Solution
Enter the Soulo: a long-handled, electric nail trimmer designed with disabled people in mind — not just adapted after the fact.
This innovative device tackles the basic design flaws that stop traditional nail clippers from being usable for many disabled people:
- Electric rotary trimmer (no blades, no squeezing required)
- Removable safety guard for protection during use
- Extended handle design for maximum reach without bending
- Curved handle design for optimal reach and ergonomics
- USB-C charging capability for convenience and reliability
- Purpose-built for adult human nails with appropriate power levels
- Longest reach available in electric nail trimmers
- •Built-in light to brighten your trimming area and reduce reliance on external lighting
How to Cut Toenails Safely with Limited Mobility: Tips and Best Practices
I decided to research on forums and reddit the ways people had tried to overcome this issue themselves.
Based on community experiences and expert recommendations, here are practical solutions for managing toenail care when traditional methods aren’t accessible.
For Visual Impairment
Tip: Use the “Feel Method” As one Reddit user from r/Blind shared: “Now I trim exclusively by feel because arranging a position where I can get a good eyeline of my toes tends to mean I have no eyeline of my toes.”
Best Practices:
- Work in good lighting with magnification if you have partial vision
- Use electric trimmers with guards to prevent over-cutting
- Consider nail files for maintenance between professional visits
- Feel for rough edges after trimming
For Multiple Sclerosis and Shaky Hands
The Challenge: “I don’t have very good manual dexterity, or hand strength, and am completely unable to safely cut my nails so my wife has to do it for me… Can anyone recommend a nail trimmer for use by those of us with hands weakened by multiple sclerosis?” – MS News Today Forums user
“i am fairly disabled now-cant reach toenails and not safe with scissors and clippers are difficult. i have sensation and circulation probs” – MS Society Forum
Solutions:
- Use electric rotary trimmers that don’t require precise grip strength
- Trim nails after a warm bath when they’re softer
- Take frequent breaks to manage fatigue
- Consider enlisting help: “my wife has to do it for me”
For Wheelchair Users and Limited Reach
The Reality: “Since becoming a wheelchair user… My mobility and flexibility are next to nothing but I just want to get this done” – Reddit r/disabled user
“I need help, I can’t bend down to my toes nor can I lift them up for me to cut. My mobility and flexibility are next to nothing but I just want to get this done.” – Reddit r/disabled user
Practical Tips
- Invest in long-handled nail clippers – Aim for at least an 18–20 inch reach so you can trim without straining joints or bending awkwardly.
- Set yourself up safely – Use a stable surface for your foot, and make sure the area is well-lit so you can see exactly what you’re doing.
- Consider professional foot care – A registered chiropodist (also called a podiatrist) can treat nails and other foot issues, and their services may be covered by some health cash plans. A foot health practitioner (FHP) offers similar basic nail and skin care but isn’t HCPC-registered, so their work is usually not reimbursed. Both can visit at home, and many salons are wheelchair-accessible.
- Ask an occupational therapist – They can recommend adaptive tools or adjustments to your environment that make the task easier and safer.
For Arthritis and Joint Stiffness
Common Struggle: “My stiffness makes it difficult to reach my nails for a proper trim… The most challenging aspect for me involves the issues related to bending and stretching” – r/AskOldPeopleAdvice
“As I have gotten older, my toenails seem to have gotten thicker, so that it is a real chore to trim them. It doesn’t help that I have arthritis, so while I can bend to get down there, it is not as easy as it used to be.” – Bogleheads Forum
Management Strategies:
- Time trimming for when joints are most flexible (often morning)
- Use ergonomic nail care tools with larger handles, or extra strong nail clippers
- Soak feet in warm water first to soften nails
- In UK, you may be eligible for NHS podiatry if you have certain medical conditions or high-risk foot health needs. Some areas will also accept referrals for people whose mobility issues prevent self-care, but availability varies by region. In the USA, podiatry is usually covered by insurance only when it’s linked to a medical condition such as diabetes, circulation problems, or infection risk. Routine toenail care is often private-pay.
For Post-Surgery Recovery
Preparation Question: “Do I need to order long-handled toenail clippers?” – Joint replacement patient
Recovery Tips:
- Order adaptive tools before surgery while you can still shop easily
- Stock up on nail files as backup options
- Ask family/friends for help during early recovery
- Check with physiotherapist about safe bending angles
Safety Best Practices for All Conditions
Universal Guidelines:
- Trim toenails straight across — This reduces the risk of ingrown nails.
- Use proper lighting and take your time
- Clean tools before use to prevent infection. Use alcohol gel or soap and water, allowing to air dry.
- Don’t cut too short – leave a small white edge
- File rough edges after cutting
When to Seek Professional Help
Red Flags:
- Thick, yellowed nails that resist cutting
- Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain)
- Ingrown nails
- Complete inability to reach feet safely
Professional Options:
- NHS Podiatry services for those with medical need
- Mobile foot care services for home visits
- Nail salons with accessibility accommodations
- Private podiatrists prefereably with some experience of other disabled clients
Product Comparison
| Feature | Soulo Electric | Long-Handle Manual | Table-Top Clippers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | Electric rotary | Manual squeeze | Manual scissor |
| Handle Length/Reach | 18-20 inches (longest) | 12-15 inches | 8-10 inches |
| Safety | Guard included | Sharp blade, no guard | Requires precise grip |
| Weak Grip Friendly | Yes | No | No |
| Price Range (2025) | $75 | $25-35 | $15-30 |
UK vs US Buying Guide for Adaptive Nail Clippers (2025)
| Product | Price (USD) | Price (GBP) | Available In | Power Type | Safety Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soulo Electric Nail Trimmer | $75 | £70–95 (import estimate) | US only (UK launch expected 2025–26) | Electric rotary | Safety guard, curved handle | Limited reach, low dexterity, post-surgery |
| Peta Easi-Grip Nail Care Set | ~$24 (import) | £18.95 | UK | Manual | None | Mild mobility issues, affordable option |
| ClipDifferent Pro | $149 | £120 (import) | US & UK (import) | Electric table-top | Safety slot | Tremors, poor coordination, fingernails only |
| TrimPro Auto Nail Trimmer | $99 | £80 (import) | US | Electric | Basic guard | Seniors with arthritis, portable use |
| Manual Long-Handled Clippers/Scissors | $20–35 | £15–30 | UK & US | Manual | None | Good grip, limited bend, budget-friendly |
Buying Tips:
- US readers: Soulo is readily available domestically; other models may require import.
- UK readers: Peta Easi-Grip and other manual long-handle models. Electric models may require paying import duties.
- Check for VAT relief eligibility if buying in the UK.
- If importing, confirm the charging compatibility (voltage and plug type).
Who Benefits Most
The Soulo’s maximum reach design is particularly valuable for people who:
- Are disabled and have limited upper-body movement due to spinal injuries, muscular conditions, or joint disorders
- Are recovering from surgery and temporarily have restricted mobility or strength
- Experience fatigue or stiffness from chronic conditions that make prolonged bending or gripping difficult
- Require assistance with personal care tasks but want to maintain independence where possible
It’s also useful for healthcare professionals or occupational therapists supporting people with restricted movement, providing a safer and more dignified solution for personal care assistance.
Adaptive Tools That Actually Work
Based on Community Recommendations:
Electric Options:
- Soulo Electric Nail Trimmer – longest reach available
- Table-top electric trimmers for those who can position feet
Manual Alternatives:
- Long-handled nail scissors (UK available)
- Extended grip clippers with lever action
- Heavy-duty nail files for regular maintenance
Cost-Saving Tips
Budget-Friendly Approaches:
- Check if you qualify for VAT relief on adaptive equipment (UK)
- Ask GP about NHS podiatry referral
- Look for mobility equipment loans from local disability charities
- Consider sharing costs with family for expensive electric trimmers
Technical Specifications and Pricing
The Soulo retails for $75 in the US market (Get 15% off with this link!), positioning it as a premium accessibility solution. While this is more expensive than manual alternatives, the investment pays off in safety, independence, and ease of use, especially if you usually need to pay for private home visits or the time of a paid carer to help you. The device comes with a 1-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee, which is particularly important for assistive technology purchases.
The device’s electric rotary system eliminates the need for blade-based cutting, reducing injury risk and making the process smoother for users with limited dexterity or strength.
Set Up Tutorial
Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintenance requirements are minimal, making the Soulo practical for long-term use:
- The USB-C charging port should be kept dry to prevent damage
- The device holds charge for approximately 10-15 uses per full charge
- Regular cleaning of the trimming head ensures optimal performance
- The removable safety guard can be cleaned separately
- The Soulo rotary file is removable for easy cleaning with rubbing alcohol or antibacterial
wipes. The manufacturer recommends cleaning after each use and replacing the file every 6-12
months depending on usage frequency.
Market Position and Innovation
Unlike baby nail trimmers or pet grinders that some people adapt for personal use, the Soulo is specifically designed for adult human nails with appropriate power and safety features. The curved handle design is unique in the market — most electric nail tools are straight or handheld only.
This represents a significant shift from the typical approach of adapting existing products for disabled users. Instead, the Soulo was developed from the ground up with accessibility as the primary design consideration.
Why It Matters
One MS Society forum member put it simply: “I’m fairly disabled now — can’t reach toenails and not safe with scissors.” Toenail care isn’t just cosmetic. It’s about preventing pain, avoiding infections, and being able to manage personal hygiene safely. No one should have to risk injury or go without care. With the right tools, professional support, or help from someone you trust, it can be done safely and comfortably.
When traditional clippers don’t work, the issue lies in the product’s design — not in the person using it. That gap is where better solutions are needed.
Beyond the Product
The Soulo shows what’s possible when accessibility is considered from the very first design stage. For disabled people — whether as users, advocates, or business owners — it’s proof of how well products work when they’re shaped by the experiences of the people who will actually use them.
Through my work with disabled entrepreneurs at Disability Horizons Shop, I see the value of purpose-built solutions every day. The Soulo meets a clear need in personal care, offering a safe and independent way to trim toenails. Once it reaches the UK, it’s likely to become a go-to option for many who’ve been left without suitable choices.
Important: The Soulo is currently available only in the United States. UK availability expected soon. Check for updates.
Soulo Long Reach Nail Clipper FAQs
Is the Soulo safe for people with poor vision or tremors?
Yes. The safety guard prevents over-filing, and the rotating file reduces the risk of sudden cuts
compared to traditional clippers.
Can you use it for fingernails too?
Yes, though it is designed for toenails due to the handle length. Some users find it works well for
fingernails when seated.
How loud is the motor?
The motor runs at about 40–45 decibels — roughly the level of background noise you’d hear in a quiet library.
Will it work on thick or fungal nails?
The Soulo can handle moderately thick nails, but severely thickened nails from fungal infections
may require professional care first. Always consult a podiatrist for persistent nail issues.
Is it TSA-friendly for travel?
Yes, the Soulo can be packed in carry-on luggage as it contains no sharp blades. The USB-C
charging cable should be easily recognised by security.