How to Clean Hair Brushes?A Complete Guide
Keeping hairbrushes clean ensures better hair health and longer-lasting brushes. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you tackle hair, dirt, and product buildup on various types of brushes.
1. Remove Hair and Loose Debris
Start by removing the hair that’s tangled in the bristles. Use your fingers or a comb to pull out the loose strands, which helps clear space for deep cleaning. If there’s a lot of hair, a small pair of scissors can help you cut through it, making it easier to lift away.
1. Remove Hair and Loose Debris
Start by removing the hair that’s tangled in the bristles. Use your fingers or a comb to pull out the loose strands, which helps clear space for deep cleaning. If there’s a lot of hair, a small pair of scissors can help you cut through it, making it easier to lift away.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a mild shampoo or a small amount of gentle dish soap. This mix works well to dissolve oils and residue without damaging the bristles. Keep in mind, however, that wooden brushes shouldn’t be soaked; they’re better handled with a quick dip or spot-cleaning to avoid warping.
3. Soak and Scrub the Bristles
For most brushes, let them soak in the solution for 5–10 minutes. For plastic or metal brushes, submerge the entire brush, but for wooden brushes, only dip the bristles. After soaking, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub between bristles, focusing on areas where dirt and oil tend to build up.
4. Rinse and Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly under cool running water, taking care to remove any soap residue. If the brush handle is wooden, quickly dry it off to avoid water damage. After rinsing, pat the bristles dry with a towel, then place the brush bristle-side down on a dry towel to allow it to air dry completely.
5. Cleaning Frequency and Maintenance Tips
Aim to clean your brushes every two weeks, or once a week if you use styling products often. Regular maintenance prevents buildup, so your brush stays effective and safe for use. If you have a favorite boar bristle or specialty brush, check any specific care instructions for best results.