An orange stick is a manicure tool used for cleaning finger nails and pushing back cuticles. One side of the orange stick typically has a pointed end and the other side has a flat, angled shape. Generally, orange sticks are 4 inches (about 10.16 cm) long and .5 inches (about 1.27 cm) wide. They are often orange in color and were originally made from orangewood.

There are two different kinds of orange sticks. A wooden stick is typically used to clean nails and push back cuticles. Metal sticks usually are used only to push back cuticles.

An orange stick can be used to clean under nails, push back cuticles, and to buff nails. There are other tools that can be used to do all of these things, but orange sticks usually are cheaper. They can be convenient to carry and usually are gentler on the nails.

Orange sticks typically should be used at the beginning of a manicure. Cuticles should first be softened by soaking the nails in soapy, warm water. The flat end of the stick is used in the middle of the nail to push the excess cuticle skin lower on the nail. A person usually wants to gently perform this action as the sin around the nails can be quite delicate. Also, the stick can be used at the end of a manicure to clean around the nails.

An orange stick can be used during a pedicure, as well. After soaking the toes in warm, soapy water, the end of the stick can be used to push the cuticles back. While pushing the cuticle, a person usually should be careful not to push too far. Also, a person can use the orange stick to clean under the toe nails.

Generally, orange sticks should be kept sterile to help prevent infections. A metal orange stick usually should be cleaned thoroughly after each use. Wooden orange sticks typically should be replaced after each use. Germs build up on orange sticks and over time can cause infections or fungal infections on the feet.