How to Give Yourself a Relaxing Pedicure at Home

In the rhythm of everyday life, “self-care” often gets shuffled to the bottom of the to-do list. It can feel like more work—one more thing to do! But today, while listening to a business class on Zoom, I gave myself permission to multitask in the best possible way: I soaked, scrubbed, and polished my long-neglected feet and hands.

And you know what? It felt wonderful. My skin is soft, my toes are brightly painted, and I feel a little more like myself again.

If I had an unlimited spa budget, I’d probably hop on over to a fancy island spa and let the professionals work their magic. But in the real world, a DIY pedicure at home can feel just as luxurious—and it costs a whole lot less.

If you’ve never given yourself a pedicure at home (or feel a little unsure about what to do), here’s my easy, step-by-step routine to turn an ordinary afternoon into a relaxing spa moment.

My Easy DIY Pedicure Routine: 7 Simple Steps

1. Find a cozy spot and your favorite show. Choose a comfy chair and set the mood. I often turn on a fun TV show, Hallmark movie, or podcast to listen to while I relax.

2. Gather Your Supplies Having everything nearby helps you stay relaxed. Here’s what I like to use:

• A dishpan (only for feet!) with warm, soapy water
• Foot scrub
• Thick lotion (Mary Kay’s Extra Emollient Night Cream is my go-to)
• Foot file or pumice stone
• Nail clippers and file
• Cuticle oil
• Q-tips for cuticles
• Base coat, nail polish, and top coat (my favorite right now: OPI Cajun Shrimp!)
• Fluffy towel and washcloth

You can see some of my favorite supplies in my Amazon shop here.

3.Soak your feet. Fill your dishpan with warm water and add bubbles (any kind will do). Let your feet soak for 10–15 minutes while you relax and unwind.

4. Soften and exfoliate.

Take one foot out at a time and rub in a thick layer of Extra Emollient Night Cream. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften dry skin.

Then, scrub your foot with the foot scrub and rinse. Use the foot file or pumice to gently remove rough spots. Repeat on the other foot.

5. Moisturize and prep the nails.

Rub in a scented lotion (I like Peppermint & Plum). Then clip and shape your nails. Apply cuticle oil and gently push back the cuticles with a Q-tip.

6. Paint your toes.

Now for the fun part! Apply a base coat (I use Stickey), then two coats of color, and finish with a top coat. Let them dry completely before walking or putting on socks.

7. Enjoy your pretty feet!

Whether you’re heading into sandals or staying in your cozy socks, your feet will look and feel fabulous.

Treat Yourself — You Deserve It

It’s amazing how something as simple as painting your toes can lift your spirits. These little rituals are part of what makes home feel comforting and cared for—and you deserve that care, too.

If you’re looking for a little inspiration, I’ve linked some of the products I used (including my favorite current nail color) at the bottom of this post.

Also—anyone else get a kick out of nail polish color names? “Cajun Shrimp” always makes me smile! What’s your favorite shade?