Which of the following practices is recommended to ensure hygiene during nail services?

Using disposable tools whenever possible is a highly recommended practice to ensure hygiene during nail services. Disposable tools help prevent cross-contamination between clients, significantly reducing the risk of spreading infections or diseases. When tools are used for only one client and then discarded, it eliminates the possibility of pathogens being transferred from one person to another.

In professional settings, maintaining high standards of hygiene is crucial, not just for client safety but also for the reputation of the salon and the health and safety of the technician. Utilizing disposable tools, such as files, buffers, or cuticle pushers, mitigates the need for cleaning and sanitization, making the service faster and more efficient without compromising on safety.

The other practices listed do not align with recommended hygiene protocols. Soaking tools in alcohol may not be sufficient for thorough sanitization, as the effectiveness can depend on various factors like concentration and contact time. Reusing the same tools for different clients without proper sterilization poses a direct hygiene risk. Wiping tools with a towel does not provide the necessary disinfection, as it might merely move bacteria around rather than eliminating them. Thus, the choice to use disposable tools is the most effective way to uphold hygiene standards in nail services.