How to Clean Hairbrushes Using Simple Household Items

Let’s face it: our hair brushes endure a lot. They accumulate not only strands of our precious locks but also dirt, oil, dust, and styling products over time. Failure to clean them regularly can lead to a build-up of bacteria, which can ultimately transfer back onto our freshly washed hair. Yikes! Not to mention, dirty brushes are less effective at styling our hair, defeating their purpose entirely. To fix this, let’s learn together how to clean hairbrushes and give them some TLC; they need it, too.

The Common Problem of Dirty Hairbrushes

I was surprised as most girls I’ve spoken to hardly ever pay attention to how often they clean their hairbrushes, if they clean them at all! This discovery made me research the subject even further, and I came to the striking conclusion that this problem is far too common. Unlike makeup brushes, hairbrushes are often forgotten when it comes to cleaning. There are occasional shoutouts in social media from girls around the globe about the ‘disgusting’ outcomes that follow the usage of dirty hairbrushes, therefore, I decided to use my voice too to contribute to the pack.

A Guide on Cleaning Hairbrushes: All You Need to Know

Let’s Dive In Together! I will cover some basics here on why girls should clean their hairbrushes at home and how to do it hassle-free, followed by some Q&A on the subject to cover any white spots, in my hope of motivating more girls to join me in this simple and healthy hairbrush cleaning routine. If you’re seeking more self-care routine ideas, here are our 10 tips for quality Me-Time at home.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find All You Require

Before diving into the hairbrush cleaning process, prepare your hairbrushes that need cleaning and gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need:

Comb or toothpick to remove hair from the brush
1 tsp of a gentle shampoo
1 tbsp of baking soda (optional)
Old toothbrush
Warm water
Small or middle-size towel

2. Remove Hair

Firstly, start by gently pulling out any hair trapped in the bristles of your brush. You can use a comb, toothpick, or your fingers for this step. It might take some time, especially if the brush hasn’t been cleaned in a while.

3. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of gentle shampoo. Then swirl the water to create suds—this will be your cleaning solution.

4. Soak the Brushes

Submerge the brush in the cleaning solution, making sure the bristles are completely covered. Let it soak for about 10–15 minutes to loosen any build-up.

5. Scrub Away Dirt and Residue

After soaking, take an old toothbrush and gently scrub the bristles of the hairbrush to remove any remaining dirt, oil, or product buildup. Focus on areas where buildup is particularly stubborn. If there is some dirt left, use then baking soda to remove the remaining dirt. Therefore, in the small bowl, mix one tbsp of baking powder with 1 tsp of water to create a paste. Then, apply this paste on a bristle and clean it with a toothbrush. Leave it for 1 minute and rinse with water.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of your brush, rinse it under running water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all the shampoo and dirt are washed away.

7. Dry Properly

Shake off any excess water from the brush and put it on a clean towel. Then, leave it to air dry completely before using it again. Usually, it takes around 24 hours to dry completely.

Important note: for wooded hairbrushes, soak them for only 1 or 2 minutes and clean additionally with baking soda following step 5.

Most Popular Q&A About Cleaning Hairbrushes

Q: How often should I clean my hairbrush?

A: Hair experts recommend cleaning your hair brush at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dirt, oil, and bacteria. However, if you have multiple hair brushes in rotation and use them at different times, cleaning them once every two or three weeks would suffice. Just ensure that you maintain a regular cleaning schedule to keep your brushes in good condition and your hair healthy.

Q: Can I use any shampoo to clean my hairbrush?

A: It’s best to use a gentle shampoo that won’t be too harsh on the bristles of your brush. Avoid using clarifying and anti-dandruff shampoos, as they can strip the natural oils from the bristles.

Q: My hair brush has a lot of hair stuck in it. What should I do?

A: Use a comb or your fingers to gently remove the hair from the brush before cleaning it. If necessary, you can also use scissors to cut through any stubborn strands.

Q: How can I tell if my hairbrush needs cleaning?

A: If you notice a buildup of hair, dirt, or product residue on your brush, it’s time for a clean. Additionally, if your brush starts to smell or feels sticky to the touch, it definitely needs a good scrubbing. Even if you don’t have such obvious signs yet but know you haven’t cleaned your brush for a very long time, just do it—don’t wait for them.

Q: Can I clean my hairbrush in the dishwasher?

A: Hair brush manufacturers do not recommend cleaning your hairbrush in the dishwasher, as the heat and water pressure can damage the bristles. For the best results, stick to hand washing.

A Short Video of the Cleaning Process:

Provide Your Hairbrushes some TLC

In conclusion, cleaning your hair brush is a simple yet essential part of maintaining healthy and beautiful hair. By following these steps and making it a regular part of your hair care routine, you’ll ensure that your brush stays in tip-top condition and your hair looks its best every day. So, grab your supplies and give your hair brushes the love and attention it deserves!