A hairbrush is an essential tool in your daily hair care routine, and it needs care, too. Just like your hair, your brush requires routine cleaning to stay effective and hygienic.
Here’s why it’s important to keep your brush clean, and how:
The importance of washing your hair brushes
- Product buildup: Styling products like hairspray, mousse, and oils cling to the bristles.
- Dead skin cells: Your scalp naturally sheds skin cells, which can gather in your brush. Not to mention some of your hair strands
- Oil and dirt: Oils from your scalp, combined with environmental dust and pollutants, also settle on the bristles.
- Bacteria and dust mites: The combination of product buildup, dirt, and moisture can grow bacteria and even dust mites.
Failing to clean your brushes regularly can lead to some unwanted consequences:
- Reintroduction of dirt: When you run a dirty brush through freshly washed hair, you’re transferring oils, dirt, and product buildup right back into your strands, defeating the purpose of washing your hair.
- Bacterial growth: A dirty brush can harbour bacteria, potentially leading to scalp irritation, dandruff, or even breakouts along the hairline.
- Reduced brush efficiency: A brush clogged with hair and gunk won’t glide smoothly through your hair, making styling harder and potentially causing breakage.
How to wash your hair brushes correctly
Remove hair strands
Start by removing the hair strands trapped between the bristles. Use a comb or a brush cleaning tool to lift the hair out, or gently use your fingers to pull the strands free.
Prepare a cleaning solution
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a few drops of gentle shampoo or a mix of water and baking soda (which helps break down product buildup).
Soak the brush (if applicable)
For plastic and metal brushes, submerge the brush in the water for 3-5 minutes. If your brush has a wooden handle or is made of natural materials, avoid fully soaking it to prevent water damage.
Scrub the bristles
Use an old toothbrush or another small brush to scrub between the bristles. Focus on areas where product and dirt may be stuck.
Rinse thoroughly
Rinse the brush under warm running water to remove all soap and buildup. Be careful with wooden brushes—use a damp cloth to wipe them instead.
Dry properly
Shake off any excess water and let the brush air dry bristle-side down on a clean towel. This prevents water from pooling in the base and helps it dry faster.
How often should you wash your hair brushes?
The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your brush and the type of products you apply to your hair. A good rule of thumb is:
- Every 1-2 weeks: For everyday brushes used without heavy styling products.
- Once a week: If you regularly use products like gels, hairsprays, or oils.
- Every few days: If you have dandruff, scalp conditions, or oily hair, you may need to clean your brushes more frequently to avoid buildup.
Compiled by: Amy Steenkamp
First published by Woman & Home
Also see: Is your shower water ruining your hair? Here’s what you need to know
