Can You Wash Waterproof Makeup Brushes The Same Way As Regular Ones

Makeup brushes are essential tools in any beauty routine, and their performance depends heavily on how well they’re maintained. With the growing popularity of waterproof makeup products, many brush manufacturers now offer “waterproof” or water-resistant versions designed to withstand frequent exposure to liquids without deteriorating. But does that mean you can clean them the same way as your regular brushes? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — it depends on the materials, construction, and intended use of each brush.

Understanding the differences between waterproof and standard brushes — and how to care for them properly — is crucial for preserving their shape, softness, and hygiene. Washing them incorrectly can lead to bristle shedding, glue breakdown, or even bacterial growth, regardless of whether the brush claims to be waterproof.

What Makes a Brush \"Waterproof\"?

The term “waterproof” in the context of makeup brushes doesn’t mean the entire tool can survive being submerged in water indefinitely. Instead, it typically refers to certain design features that enhance durability when exposed to wet products like liquid foundations, setting sprays, or waterproof mascaras.

Key characteristics of waterproof brushes include:

• Water-resistant ferrule glue: The metal band (ferrule) that holds the bristles to the handle is secured with adhesive that resists moisture, preventing loosening over time.
• Synthetic, non-porous bristles: Most waterproof brushes use synthetic fibers (like nylon or polyester), which don’t absorb water or product, making them ideal for cream and liquid applications.
• Sealed handles: Some high-end brushes feature coated or sealed wooden or plastic handles to prevent water from seeping in and causing warping or mold.

Despite these enhancements, no makeup brush is entirely immune to damage from improper washing techniques. Even waterproof models require thoughtful cleaning to maintain their integrity.

Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before washing — some brands specify hand-washing only or recommend avoiding soaking.

How Regular Makeup Brushes Should Be Cleaned

Standard makeup brushes, especially those made with natural bristles (such as goat or sable hair), are more delicate when exposed to water. These bristles are porous and can absorb liquids, which makes them excellent for blending powders but also more prone to damage if not dried properly.

A proper cleaning routine for regular brushes includes the following steps:

1. Rinse the bristles under lukewarm water, keeping the handle angled downward to prevent water from entering the ferrule.
2. Apply a small amount of gentle brush cleanser or mild shampoo to the palm or a silicone cleaning mat.
3. Gently swirl the bristles to lift away product buildup.
4. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
5. Squeeze out excess water gently with a clean towel.
6. Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat or hang it upside down to dry overnight.

Over-soaking or leaving brushes upright while drying allows water to pool in the ferrule, weakening the glue and potentially causing the bristles to fall out. This risk applies to all brushes — waterproof or not.

Can You Wash Waterproof Brushes the Same Way?

In most cases, yes — you can use the same basic cleaning method for waterproof brushes as you do for regular ones. However, there are important nuances that allow for slightly more flexibility with waterproof models.

Because waterproof brushes are built to resist moisture damage, they can often tolerate:

• Brief soaking in a cleansing solution (though still not recommended long-term).
• Faster drying times due to non-absorbent synthetic bristles.
• More frequent washing without compromising structural integrity.

That said, even waterproof brushes benefit from gentle handling. Aggressive scrubbing, hot water, or harsh detergents can still degrade the glue, fade the finish, or fray the bristles over time.

“Just because a brush is labeled ‘waterproof’ doesn’t give you license to treat it roughly. Proper technique matters more than material alone.” — Lena Torres, Professional Makeup Artist & Beauty Educator

Do’s and Don’ts: Cleaning Both Brush Types Safely

To help clarify best practices, here’s a comparison table outlining what to do — and what to avoid — when washing both waterproof and regular makeup brushes.

Action	Regular Brushes	Waterproof Brushes
Use lukewarm water	✅ Yes — essential	✅ Yes — safe
Soak bristles for 5+ minutes	❌ Avoid — risks glue damage	⚠️ Limited tolerance — not recommended
Use a brush cleansing solution	✅ Recommended	✅ Safe and effective
Dry upright in a cup	❌ Never — water seeps into ferrule	❌ Still risky — avoid
Dry flat or hanging bristle-down	✅ Best method	✅ Ideal for fast drying
Clean weekly	✅ For hygiene	✅ Especially important for liquid/cream brushes
Use dish soap or alcohol-based cleaners	❌ Too harsh — strips natural oils	❌ Can degrade synthetic fibers over time

The key takeaway is consistency in care. While waterproof brushes are more resilient, they still rely on careful maintenance to deliver long-term performance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Any Makeup Brush Safely

Whether your brushes are labeled waterproof or not, follow this universal cleaning process to extend their lifespan and ensure hygiene:

1. Pre-rinse: Hold the brush under lukewarm running water, pointing downward. Swirl gently to loosen surface makeup.
2. Apply cleanser: Place a dime-sized amount of brush shampoo or gentle facial cleanser on your palm or a silicone mat.
3. Clean bristles: Gently swirl the brush in circular motions to work up a lather. Focus on the base where product accumulates.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Continue rinsing until the water runs completely clear. Check near the ferrule for hidden residue.
5. Squeeze and reshape: Use a clean microfiber towel to gently press out excess water. Reshape the bristles to their original form.
6. Dry properly: Lay the brush flat on a towel with the bristles hanging slightly off the edge, or use a brush drying rack with bristles facing down. Never let water sit in the ferrule.
7. Wait 6–12 hours: Allow full drying time before reuse. Using a damp brush can promote bacterial growth and affect makeup application.

This method works equally well for both brush types and minimizes the risk of damage while maximizing cleanliness.

Tip: Deep clean foundation and concealer brushes weekly, and eye brushes every 1–2 weeks to prevent bacteria buildup.

Real Example: A Makeup Artist’s Experience

Jessica M., a freelance makeup artist based in Austin, Texas, uses a mix of waterproof and regular brushes daily. She once assumed her waterproof synthetic brushes could be cleaned more aggressively — she would soak them in a bowl of soapy water while working on clients.

Within three months, several brushes began shedding bristles. “I thought since they were waterproof, they could handle anything,” she recalls. “But I realized the glue was breaking down from prolonged exposure. Now I rinse quickly, clean gently, and always dry them horizontally. My brushes last twice as long.”

Her experience highlights a common misconception: waterproof doesn’t mean indestructible. Even durable tools fail when misused.

Expert-Recommended Cleaning Products

Choosing the right cleaner plays a major role in brush longevity. Experts suggest using pH-balanced formulas designed specifically for makeup brushes. Here are a few top-recommended options:

• Cinema Secrets Brush Cleaner: Fast-drying, disinfecting, ideal for on-the-go use.
• BeautyBlender Solid Cleanser: Gentle bar formula great for deep cleaning synthetics.
• Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Soap: Mild, natural option suitable for sensitive users.
• EcoTools Brush Cleansing Cloths: Reusable mats with textured surfaces for effective cleaning without waste.

Avoid household cleaners like bleach, vinegar, or dish soap unless diluted and used sparingly — these can strip protective coatings and weaken bristle adhesion.

Checklist: Monthly Brush Care Routine

Stay on top of brush hygiene with this actionable checklist:

• ✅ Inspect each brush for loose bristles or bent ferrules.
• ✅ Deep clean all brushes used with liquid or cream products.
• ✅ Spot-clean eyeshadow brushes with a quick spray of brush cleaner.
• ✅ Reshape any misaligned bristles after washing.
• ✅ Replace any brush showing significant wear or hygiene concerns.
• ✅ Store brushes in a clean, ventilated container away from humidity.

Consistent maintenance prevents cross-contamination, ensures smooth application, and protects your investment in quality tools.

FAQ

Can I use rubbing alcohol to disinfect waterproof brushes?

You can use a small amount of rubbing alcohol mixed with water (70% water, 30% alcohol) to disinfect the bristles, especially after illness. However, frequent use can dry out the glue and damage synthetic fibers. Reserve alcohol treatments for emergencies and always follow with a gentle shampoo wash.

Do waterproof brushes need to be washed less often?

No — actually, they may need more frequent cleaning. Because they’re often used with liquid and cream products that harbor bacteria, waterproof brushes should be cleaned at least weekly if used daily. Regular washing prevents caking and maintains precision.

Are natural bristle brushes ever waterproof?

Not truly. While some natural bristle brushes are treated for water resistance, their porous structure means they absorb liquids. They are best reserved for powder products. For waterproof makeup, synthetic bristles are superior in performance and durability.

Final Thoughts: Care Beyond the Label

The label “waterproof” offers reassurance, but it shouldn’t replace mindful care. Whether your brush is designed for water resistance or not, the fundamentals of proper cleaning remain the same: gentle products, controlled water exposure, and correct drying techniques.

Treating all your brushes with equal respect — regardless of price or function — ensures they perform beautifully and last longer. Over time, this habit saves money, reduces waste, and supports healthier skin by minimizing bacterial buildup.

🚀 Start today: Pick one brush, clean it properly using the method outlined here, and notice the difference in texture and performance. Share your brush care tips in the comments — your experience could help others build better beauty habits!