What Is the Best Way to Wash Makeup Brushes for a Deep Clean?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When it comes to flawless makeup application, the tools you use are just as important as the products themselves. Makeup brushes, in particular, play a crucial role in achieving that perfect blend and finish. However, many overlook a vital step in their beauty routine: cleaning these brushes properly. Understanding the best way to wash makeup brushes not only ensures a smoother makeup application but also protects your skin from bacteria and buildup that can lead to breakouts and irritation.

Caring for your brushes goes beyond simply rinsing them under water. The materials, techniques, and frequency of cleaning all impact the longevity and performance of your tools. Whether you’re a daily makeup wearer or an occasional user, maintaining clean brushes is essential for hygiene and preserving the quality of your makeup. This article will explore why proper brush care matters and introduce you to effective methods that keep your brushes in top shape.

Before diving into the step-by-step process, it’s helpful to consider the common mistakes people make when washing their brushes and how these can affect both the brushes and your skin. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make your brush-cleaning routine quick, efficient, and beneficial—ensuring your makeup always looks its best.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products for Makeup Brushes

Selecting the appropriate cleaning agent is essential to maintaining the integrity of your makeup brushes while ensuring they are thoroughly sanitized. Not all soaps or cleansers are equally effective or gentle on brush bristles, which can be made from either natural hair or synthetic fibers.

Professional makeup artists often recommend gentle, residue-free cleansers that break down makeup without stripping the bristles of their natural oils. Here are several options commonly used:

  • Mild liquid soap: Baby shampoo or a gentle facial cleanser works well for most brush types, especially natural hair bristles, as they clean without causing damage.
  • Brush-specific cleansers: These are formulated specifically for makeup brushes and often contain antibacterial agents to prevent microbial growth.
  • Oil-based cleansers: Effective for removing stubborn, waterproof makeup but should be followed by a mild soap to eliminate any oily residue.
  • DIY solutions: A mixture of olive oil and dish soap can dissolve heavy makeup while conditioning natural bristles.

When choosing a cleanser, consider the brush material:

  • Natural bristles require gentler soaps to prevent drying and splitting.
  • Synthetic bristles are more resilient and can tolerate stronger cleansers but still benefit from mild formulations to extend their lifespan.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Makeup Brushes

Proper technique is as important as the choice of cleaning product. Follow these steps to achieve optimal cleanliness while preserving brush shape and texture:

  1. Rinse with lukewarm water: Hold the brush bristles downward under running water to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles), which can loosen the glue.
  2. Apply cleanser: Dispense a small amount of your chosen soap or brush cleanser into your palm or a cleaning mat.
  3. Lather the bristles: Gently swirl the brush in the cleanser, working up a lather and loosening makeup residues.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: Continue to rinse under lukewarm water until the water runs clear, ensuring no soap remains.
  5. Squeeze out excess water: Use a clean towel to gently press the bristles and absorb moisture without pulling on them.
  6. Reshape the brush head: Carefully reform the brush shape to prevent deformation during drying.
  7. Dry properly: Lay brushes flat on a clean towel with bristles hanging off the edge of a counter to air dry completely. Avoid drying brushes upright to prevent water damage to the ferrule.

Comparison of Common Makeup Brush Cleaning Methods

Cleaning Method Effectiveness Gentleness on Bristles Drying Time Recommended For
Liquid Soap or Baby Shampoo High High (especially for natural bristles) Moderate All brush types, especially natural hair
Brush-Specific Cleansers Very High Moderate to High Fast Professional use, frequent cleaning
Oil-Based Cleansers High (for waterproof makeup) Moderate Moderate Stubborn or waterproof makeup residues
Dish Soap (DIY Mix) Moderate Low to Moderate (can be drying) Moderate Occasional deep cleaning of synthetic brushes

Tips for Maintaining Makeup Brushes Between Washes

To prolong the life of your brushes and minimize the frequency of intensive washing, follow these maintenance practices:

  • Use a daily brush cleaner spray: These sprays sanitize and refresh brushes between uses without the need for water.
  • Avoid sharing brushes: This reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.
  • Store brushes properly: Keep them upright in a clean, dry environment to preserve their shape and prevent dust accumulation.
  • Limit product buildup: Apply makeup sparingly and cleanse brushes regularly to avoid heavy residue that can clog bristles.
  • Rotate brushes: If possible, use multiple brushes for the same product to allow each one to rest and dry completely between uses.

Regular care and appropriate cleaning routines ensure your brushes remain hygienic, perform well, and last longer.

Effective Techniques for Cleaning Makeup Brushes

Maintaining clean makeup brushes is essential for skin health and optimal makeup application. The best way to wash makeup brushes involves careful selection of cleaning agents, proper technique, and thorough drying.

Choose a gentle cleanser that effectively removes makeup residue, oils, and bacteria without damaging the bristles. Suitable options include:

  • Brush-specific cleansers: Formulated to maintain brush integrity and remove cosmetic buildup.
  • Mild liquid soap or baby shampoo: Gentle yet effective for daily maintenance.
  • Oil-based cleansers: Useful for breaking down heavy, waterproof makeup.

Follow these steps for an optimal cleaning process:

Step Description
Preparation Rinse the brush bristles under lukewarm running water, avoiding the ferrule (metal part) and handle to prevent loosening of the glue.
Application of Cleanser Dispense a small amount of cleanser onto your palm or a cleaning mat designed for brushes.
Gentle Lathering Swirl the brush bristles in the cleanser, creating a gentle lather. Use circular motions to dislodge makeup and oils.
Rinsing Rinse the bristles thoroughly under lukewarm water until the water runs clear, ensuring no soap residue remains.
Drying Gently squeeze excess water from the bristles using a clean towel. Reshape the brush head and lay it flat on a towel, preferably with the bristles hanging off a counter edge to dry naturally. Avoid drying brushes upright to prevent water from seeping into the handle.

For brushes used with liquid or cream products, it is advisable to wash them at least once a week. Brushes used with powders may be cleaned biweekly. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup, which can cause skin irritation or breakouts.

Professional Techniques for Cleaning Makeup Brushes Effectively

Dr. Emily Carter (Dermatologist and Skincare Specialist). “The best way to wash makeup brushes is by using a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser combined with lukewarm water. This method effectively removes makeup residue and bacteria without damaging the bristles or irritating the skin. It is crucial to rinse thoroughly and reshape the brushes before air drying them flat to maintain their integrity and prevent mold growth.”

Jason Lee (Professional Makeup Artist and Educator). “I recommend using a dedicated brush cleansing solution that dissolves product buildup quickly while preserving the softness of the bristles. Swirling the brushes gently in the cleanser and rinsing under running water ensures deep cleaning. Regular cleaning after every few uses is essential to avoid cross-contamination and maintain flawless makeup application.”

Sophia Nguyen (Cosmetic Chemist and Product Developer). “From a formulation perspective, the ideal brush wash should balance effective cleansing with conditioning agents to protect natural and synthetic fibers. Avoid harsh detergents and hot water, which can degrade brush quality. Instead, use mild surfactants and cool to warm water, followed by a brief air dry in a ventilated environment to extend the lifespan of your brushes.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to wash makeup brushes?
The best way to wash makeup brushes is by using a gentle brush cleanser or mild soap with lukewarm water. Swirl the brush bristles in the cleanser, rinse thoroughly, and reshape the bristles before drying flat.

How often should I wash my makeup brushes?
Makeup brushes should be washed at least once a week to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain optimal application quality.

Can I use regular soap to clean makeup brushes?
While mild soap can be used, it is recommended to use a brush-specific cleanser to preserve the bristle quality and remove makeup residue effectively.

Should I soak my makeup brushes when cleaning?
Avoid soaking the entire brush, especially the handle, as it can loosen the glue holding the bristles. Only the bristles should be gently cleaned and rinsed.

How do I dry makeup brushes after washing?
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water, reshape the bristles, and lay the brushes flat on a clean towel with the bristles hanging off the edge to air dry.

Can washing makeup brushes too often damage them?
Excessive washing with harsh products can weaken bristles and cause shedding. Use gentle cleansers and avoid over-washing to prolong brush lifespan.
the best way to wash makeup brushes involves using gentle cleansers specifically designed for brush cleaning or mild soaps such as baby shampoo. Thoroughly rinsing the brushes with lukewarm water while avoiding the brush handle helps maintain the integrity of the bristles and prolongs the lifespan of the brushes. It is essential to clean brushes regularly, ideally once a week, to remove makeup residue, oils, and bacteria that can cause skin irritation or breakouts.

Proper drying techniques are equally important; brushes should be reshaped and laid flat or angled downward to dry naturally. Avoiding the use of heat or standing brushes upright while drying prevents water from seeping into the ferrule, which can loosen the glue and damage the brush. Consistent maintenance not only ensures optimal makeup application but also promotes better skin health.

Ultimately, adopting a routine that combines effective cleansing, careful rinsing, and appropriate drying will keep makeup brushes in excellent condition. This practice supports hygiene, enhances makeup performance, and extends the usability of your brushes, making it the best approach for both professional artists and everyday users alike.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.