If you’ve ever spotted the tiny round hole on a nail clipper and questioned its purpose, you’re definitely not alone. While it might seem like a minor design choice, it actually has a useful function. That small opening is meant for attaching the clipper to a key ring, chain, or lanyard, making it easy to carry and much harder to lose in drawers or bathroom clutter. Anyone who’s spent time hunting for a missing clipper knows how helpful this can be.
Putting it to use is straightforward. Slide a thin metal ring through the hole and hook it onto your keys or hang it on a hook for quick access. This turns the clipper into a portable, neatly stored tool. The hole also has other handy uses: it can keep multiple clippers together, allow you to hang them within reach, or even provide a bit of extra grip by slipping a finger through it—something many people find useful, especially with smaller clippers.
This small feature dates back to the early evolution of nail clippers. As modern versions appeared in the late 1800s, designers focused on convenience and portability. At a time when personal grooming tools needed to be carried rather than stored in bathrooms, the hole made it easy to keep clippers close at hand.
Even today, as nail clippers include added features like built-in files, bottle openers, or mini tools, that tiny hole remains one of the most practical elements. It’s a great example of how a simple design detail can make everyday tools more functional and easier to manage.