To clean hairbrushes effectively, follow these expert-recommended steps:
- Remove Hair from the Brush
Use your fingers, a comb (like a rat tail comb), or a wire brush cleaner to pull out all hair strands trapped in the bristles. For stubborn tangles, scissors or tweezers can help cut and remove hair carefully. Doing this first makes the cleaning process easier and more thorough
- Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a few drops of gentle shampoo, dish soap, or a mix of shampoo and baking soda (about two tablespoons). For extra cleaning power, some recommend adding vinegar for plastic brushes to help remove buildup and disinfect
- Soak the Brush
Submerge the brush in the soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. For plastic or synthetic brushes, you can fully submerge them. For wooden brushes or those with a cushioned base, avoid soaking the entire brush to prevent damage-just dip the bristles in water
- Scrub the Bristles and Base
Use an old toothbrush or a small cleaning brush to scrub between the bristles and the base of the brush. This helps remove oils, dirt, dead skin cells, and product residue stuck deep inside
- Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the brush under clean water to remove all soap and loosened debris. Make sure no residue remains to avoid transferring dirt back to your hair
- Disinfect (Optional)
If you share your brush or want extra sanitation, soak it briefly in a diluted disinfectant solution like Barbicide, following instructions carefully
- Dry the Brush Properly
Air dry the brush with the bristles facing down or flat on a towel to prevent water from pooling inside, which can cause mold or damage. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers to dry the brush
Additional Tips:
- Clean your hairbrush every two weeks or more often if you use many styling products.
- Use a dedicated toothbrush for cleaning brushes to avoid contamination.
- For very dirty brushes, remove excess hair and debris before soaking, and brush bristles both horizontally and vertically to loosen buildup
This routine keeps your hairbrush hygienic, prevents scalp irritation, and prolongs the life of your brush
