You Asked: What's Up With His Hands?

by DearSugar 18

Dear Sugar,

How do I get my boyfriend to cut and clean his nails? They are always long and dirty. The rest of his body is clean and I don't get why he won't keep his fingernails clean. I have done my best to block it out, and when I can't take it anymore, I offer to give him a manicure. He either gets offended or says I am being controlling. Once in a while (after I have begged and pleaded), he cleans them, but it doesn't last very long. I really really care about him, but dirty nails are a HUGE pet peeve for me. Any suggestions? — Grossed Out Gina

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Dear Grossed Out Gina,

Ewww, there is nothing worse than dirty fingernails, especially long ones! I wouldn't want to date someone with chronic dirty hands either, so let's get to the bottom of this ASAP! Does your boyfriend work with his hands? Or does he play a musical instrument? Or does he forget to wash his hands? Part of me is still confused as to how he can't notice this problem if he keeps the rest of his body clean.

Having dirty fingernails is incredibly unhygienic, and asking him to keep his hands tidy and clean isn't controlling, it's necessary, especially if his hands are going below the belt. Be honest with him in a way that won't hurt his feelings. Tell him that you would appreciate if he took better care of his hands so you know that the hands that touch your face, or the hands that are running through your hair are clean. Keep a nail brush next to your sink in the bathroom, or in the shower and remind him that you like his touch much better when his nails are kept short.

I can't imagine why he would push back on you here, so hopefully just opening up to him will put this issue to bed. Good luck!

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