Cooling systems in standard machining operations play an essential role in achieving the quality and performance required in operational outcomes. Most machining operations, and especially those dealing with refractory materials such as nickel, cobalt, and titanium-based alloys, cannot be conducted efficiently without the application of cooling. Cooling nozzles are important elements of cooling systems and control the flow rates of coolants as well as their direction. The design of the nozzle may significantly influence the efficiency of cooling systems, where high coolant consumption is one of their main ecological and economic drawbacks and poor nozzle design may result in the dissipation of coolant in an inefficient manner. This paper reviews state-of-the-art cooling systems used for machining, with an emphasis on the designs and applications of cooling nozzles used for grinding, milling, and turning operations. The first part of the paper considersrecent publications concerning common types of cooling systems as well as the nozzle designs and applications used, and also summarises the advantages and disadvantages of each system. The second part briefly discusses important research studies of the design, location and orientation of cooling nozzles. Finally, conclusions are drawn that represent the most significant results and findings of this review, the main objective of which is to fill the research gap identified with regard to the development of cooling and lubrication nozzles and their applications during grinding, milling, and turning processes.