What to Clean Makeup Brushes With: A Practical Guide
Learn what to clean makeup brushes with, plus proven methods, gentle cleansers, drying tips, and a maintenance routine for healthier skin and longer brush life.
To clean makeup brushes, rinse bristles with lukewarm water, apply a mild cleanser, work into a lather, rinse until clear, reshape bristles, and lay flat to dry. Use a gentle brush cleaner or mild dish soap; avoid hot water and harsh chemicals. Cleaning Tips recommends a weekly routine for brushes you use daily.
The science behind makeup brush cleanliness
Makeup brushes are tools that repeatedly touch the skin, trapping oils, pigments, and bacteria in every bristle. Over time, this buildup can affect skin health and application results. According to Cleaning Tips, even brushes used once can harbor oils and micro-contaminants near the ferrule where bristles meet the handle. Regular cleaning removes these residues, restores bristle health, and helps preserve brush shape and performance. In this section we unpack why dirty brushes matter, how contamination happens, and what a clean brush can do for makeup persistence, color payoff, and skin comfort. Expect practical guidance that applies to both natural hair and synthetic brushes, with care tailored to the bristle type. A consistent routine reduces breakage and helps you avoid transferring old product to fresh makeup. When you know what to clean makeup brushes with, you can choose safe products that preserve lash line hygiene and facial skin health.
Extended cleaning not only protects your skin but also prolongs the life of your brushes. With proper technique, even expensive brushes can last years. The key is to separate routine maintenance from deep cleaning, so gear stays in good condition while you enjoy flawless makeup results.
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Tools & Materials
- Gentle brush cleanser (brush-specific formula)(Fragrance-free if possible; follow product directions)
- Mild dish soap (fragrance-free)(A gentle soap can substitute in a pinch; avoid harsh detergents)
- Lukewarm water(Avoid boiling or hot water to protect glue and bristles)
- Shallow basin or clean sink(Deep enough to submerge bristles without soaking handles)
- Soft towel or microfiber cloth(For absorbing moisture and gentle blotting)
- Optional: silicone cleansing mat or egg rack( Helpful for deeper cleaning and massaging bristles)
- Hair conditioner or brush conditioning spray (optional)(Only if recommended by the brush manufacturer; not necessary for routine cleaning)
- Brush guards or a rack for drying(Keeps bristles in shape while drying)
Steps
Estimated time: Total: 15-25 minutes (plus drying time)
- 1
Prepare your brushes
Clear your workspace and lay out towels. Inspect each brush for loose ferrules or shedding bristles. This pre-check helps you avoid wasting time during washing and protects brush integrity.
Tip: Keep brush handles dry; water near the ferrule can loosen glue. - 2
Choose your cleansing method
Decide between a dedicated brush cleanser or a mild soap. A brush-specific formula is gentler on bristles, while a mild dish soap is a reliable backup.
Tip: For delicate eye brushes, use a gentler formula and a shorter contact time. - 3
Wet the bristles carefully
Hold brushes bristles downward and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid soaking the entire brush or letting water seep into the ferrule.
Tip: Position the brush head pointing down to prevent moisture from migrating into the handle. - 4
Apply cleanser and lather
Apply a small amount of cleanser to the palm or a damp mat and swirl the bristles in gentle circular motions. This lifts oils and pigments without rough scrubbing.
Tip: Be gentle; aggressive agitation can fray bristles and shorten brush life. - 5
Rinse until clear
Rinse the bristles under running water until the water runs clear and all soap residues are removed. Squeeze softly to remove excess water without twisting.
Tip: Keep a rhythm: rinse, check for color, repeat as needed. - 6
Squeeze out excess water and reshape
Gently press bristles with a towel to remove moisture. Reshape the brush head to its original form so it dries correctly.
Tip: Do not pull on the bristles to dry; this can misalign bristles. - 7
Dry thoroughly
Lay brushes flat on a clean towel or hang with bristles pointed down. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew or odor.
Tip: Never dry brushes standing upright with bristles down into water; moisture can travel into the handle. - 8
Clean frequency and routine
Establish a cleansing cadence based on usage: weekly for heavy makeup days, biweekly for light users. Deep-clean monthly for best results.
Tip: Set a reminder to maintain consistency; consistency beats intensity.
Questions & Answers
How often should I clean makeup brushes?
If you wear makeup daily, clean brushes at least once a week; more often for oily skin or sensitive areas like the eyes. For occasional users, a biweekly schedule may suffice.
Aim for weekly cleanings if you wear makeup daily; adjust based on usage and skin type.
Can I use regular dish soap to clean brushes?
Yes, a mild, fragrance-free dish soap can work, but prefer a brush cleanser or gentle shampoo when possible to protect bristle integrity.
A mild soap works, but go for a brush cleanser when you can.
Is it okay to wash brushes with hot water?
No. Hot water can weaken glue and damage bristles. Use lukewarm water and avoid prolonged exposure.
No—stick to warm water to protect the brush.
How should I dry makeup brushes?
Lay brushes flat on a towel or hang with bristles pointing downward. Keep air flowing to prevent mildew and deformation.
Dry them flat or with bristles down to avoid water seeping into the handle.
What cleaners are best for synthetic brushes?
Gentle cleansers or brush soaps work well for synthetic bristles; they’re durable but still benefit from mild formulations.
Mild cleansers are best for synthetic brushes.
Can I spot-clean brushes between deep cleans?
Yes, use a brush cleanser or mild soap to remove surface makeup between full washes. Let brushes dry completely before reuse.
Spot-clean between deep cleans to stay fresh.
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The Essentials
- Build a regular cleaning routine.
- Choose a mild cleanser suited for brushes.
- Avoid hot water and soaking the ferrule.
- Rinse until clear and reshape bristles.
- Air-dry brushes completely before reuse.
