How to Clean Makeup Brushes the Right Way
Makeup brushes pick up oil, dead skin cells, old product and bacteria every time you use them. Dirty brushes can lead to breakouts and irritation, make your makeup look streaky and wear out faster. Cleaning them takes about 15 minutes and costs almost nothing. Here is exactly how to clean makeup brushes and sponges the right way, plus how often to do it.
Quick answer: To clean makeup brushes, wet the bristles with lukewarm water, add a drop of gentle shampoo or brush cleanser, and swirl the brush on your palm until the lather runs clear. Rinse thoroughly, squeeze out excess water with a towel, reshape the bristles and lay the brushes flat to dry. Wash foundation and concealer brushes weekly and other brushes every one to two weeks.
Why Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes Matters
- Clearer skin: brushes collect oil and bacteria that can clog pores.
- Better application: clean bristles blend smoothly and colors stay true.
- Longer-lasting brushes: buildup makes bristles stiff and causes shedding.
- Less irritation: especially important for sensitive skin and eye brushes.
What You Need
- Lukewarm water
- Gentle shampoo (baby shampoo works well), a brush cleanser or mild dish soap
- A silicone cleaning mat or just the palm of your hand
- A clean towel
- Optional: olive oil or coconut oil for stubborn foundation buildup
How to Clean Makeup Brushes Step by Step
- Wet the bristles. Hold the brush with bristles pointing down and run them under lukewarm water. Avoid getting water into the ferrule (the metal part), which loosens the glue.
- Add cleanser. Put a small drop of shampoo or cleanser in your palm or on a cleaning mat.
- Swirl and lather. Gently swirl the bristles in circles until makeup lifts out.
- Rinse. Rinse under running water and repeat until the water runs clear.
- Squeeze and reshape. Gently press the bristles in a clean towel and reshape them with your fingers.
- Dry flat or upside down. Lay brushes flat with bristles hanging over the edge of a counter, or use a drying rack. Never dry them standing upright in a cup.
How to Remove Stubborn Foundation
Liquid and cream products, especially long-wear foundation, can be hard to wash out with soap alone. Swirl the brush in a little olive or coconut oil first to break down the makeup, then wash with shampoo to remove the oil. Rinse well.
How to Clean a Makeup Sponge
Wet the sponge until it expands, apply a little soap or a solid brush cleanser and squeeze it repeatedly under running water until the water runs clear. Squeeze out excess water and let it air-dry in an open space. Replace makeup sponges about every three months, or sooner if they tear or smell.
How Often Should You Clean Makeup Brushes?
| Tool | How often to wash |
|---|---|
| Foundation, concealer and cream brushes | Once a week |
| Powder, blush and bronzer brushes | Every 1 to 2 weeks |
| Eyeshadow and eyeliner brushes | Every 1 to 2 weeks (more if you have sensitive eyes) |
| Makeup sponges | After every use or at least weekly |
| Brushes shared with others | After every use |
Between deep cleans, a quick spray of a daily brush cleanser on a tissue can help with color changes, but it does not replace a full wash.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using hot water, which can damage bristles and loosen glue
- Soaking brushes in a cup of water
- Drying brushes upright
- Using harsh cleaners like rubbing alcohol on natural bristles
- Using brushes before they are fully dry, which can grow mildew
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean makeup brushes with dish soap?
Yes. A mild dish soap cuts through oily foundation well. Follow it with a gentle shampoo or conditioner on natural-hair brushes to keep them soft.
How long do makeup brushes take to dry?
Usually 6 to 12 hours, depending on the brush size. Wash them at night so they are ready by morning.
When should I replace makeup brushes?
Replace brushes when the bristles shed a lot, lose their shape or feel scratchy, even after cleaning. Good-quality brushes can last years with proper care.
The Bottom Line
Now you know how to clean makeup brushes: wet the bristles, lather with a gentle cleanser, rinse until clear and dry them flat. A weekly routine keeps your skin happier, your makeup smoother and your brushes in great shape. For another quick refresh, see our low taper fade style guide in our fashion and beauty section.
