Makeup brushes require regular cleaning. This is not only to remove makeup build-up, but it also helps to get rid of bacteria that could cause skin and eye infections.
But can you clean your makeup brushes in the washing machine? If not, what’s the best method? Find out below.
Can You Put Makeup Brushes in the Washing Machine?
You can’t put makeup brushes in the washing machine for a few reasons.
First, the bristles are held in place with glue, and the temperature and agitating motion of your washing machine can cause it to break down.
Second, the bristles are quite delicate, and the washing machine can damage them.
You could, however, wash beauty blenders in the washing machine. These are typically sponges, and so can tolerate a bit more agitation than a delicate brush.
However, their size means a full wash cycle can be a waste of water, as you won’t want to chuck them in with your clothes.
If you do decide to wash your beauty blenders in the washing machine, put them in a mesh laundry bag. Run on a 30- or 40-degree Celsius cycle with mild detergent and make sure they’re properly rinsed before using them again.
What’s the Best Way to Clean Makeup Brushes?
Cleaning your makeup brushes can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s necessary for keeping your skin (and brushes) healthy. The steps are as follows:
- Rinse your brushes under running lukewarm water to remove as much makeup as possible.
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water. Add a few drops of baby shampoo or cleansing shampoo. You’ll want to use a slightly moisturising product – normal soap can dry out the bristles.
- Dip the brush in the solution and then rub it against your hand to create a lather. Ideally, work with the shape of the brush rather than against the bristles.
- Rinse out under running water.
- Squeeze out the water and then lay the brushes flat on a towel to dry. Reshape the bristles if necessary.
- Repeat this process for each brush, using clean water every time.
How Often Should You Wash Makeup Brushes?
How often you wash makeup brushes depends on the products you use. For liquid products, wash them up to twice a week. The excess liquid in the product makes it easier for bacteria to grow.
For powder products, once every 1-2 weeks is enough. If you have oily/spot-prone skin, wash them more regularly.
As an extra tip, never leave your brushes to dry standing up. This allows water to gather in the head, which can affect the glue.
They should be dried lying down or with the brush head hanging off the edge of the surface on which you’re drying them.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning makeup brushes isn’t difficult, but it can take a while if you use lots of brushes regularly.
However, proper cleaning is a necessary step to reduce your chances of skin infections. Plus, no one likes the look of a caked-up makeup brush or beauty blender!
Jacob is a freelance writer based in Wales, where he lives with his partner and two dogs. All his work is fuelled by extensive research and buckets of coffee.
