The paper introduces the potential of bismuth nanostructures (Bi 2O 3 and Bi 2S 3) as a prospective, safe alternative to currently used additives for classical cutting fluids. The conducted physicochemical analyses allowed for determining the optimal NPs concentrations (0.05 wt%), at which relative viscosity reaches the highest value and the surface tension. Tribological properties of steel samples were determined using a ball-on-disc test with pure SN oil (mineral oil) and HFN oil (neat cutting fluid) and with bismuth nanostructures additives. The obtained results of tests, wear traces measurements (using confocal and scanning electron microscope) and chemical composition analyses of surfaces indicated that the HFN + Bi 2S 3 lubricant caused a reduction in the friction coefficient and the wear in the tested steel friction pairs.