How To Deep Clean Your Makeup Brushes At Home Without Special Tools

Makeup brushes accumulate oil, bacteria, and old product residue over time. When left uncleaned, they can cause breakouts, dull application, and even shorten the lifespan of the brushes themselves. While many believe that specialized brush cleansers or cleaning tools are necessary, effective deep cleaning can be done with items already in your kitchen or bathroom. This guide walks you through a thorough, practical method for deep cleaning your brushes using everyday household products—no fancy tools needed.

Why Deep Cleaning Matters

Brushes come into direct contact with your skin daily, transferring not just makeup but also dirt, sweat, and environmental pollutants. Over time, this buildup creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Dermatologists frequently link poorly maintained brushes to acne, irritation, and fungal infections.

A study published in the *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology* found that nearly 90% of used makeup brushes tested positive for harmful microbes, including staphylococcus and E. coli. Regular cleaning isn’t just about hygiene—it’s essential for maintaining both skin health and makeup performance.

“Dirty brushes don’t just look bad—they can actively harm your skin. A weekly rinse removes surface debris, but a monthly deep clean is crucial for killing bacteria and preserving bristle integrity.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Board-Certified Dermatologist

The Right Ingredients: What You Already Have at Home

You don’t need to buy expensive brush-cleaning solutions. Most effective cleaners combine a mild detergent with gentle degreasing power. Here are the most accessible and effective household options:

• Dish soap – Specifically designed to cut through grease, making it ideal for removing waxy and oil-based makeup like foundation and concealer.
• Shampoo – Gentle on fibers, especially good for natural-hair brushes (like sable or goat). Choose a sulfate-free version if possible.
• Olive oil or coconut oil – Used in small amounts to condition natural bristles and dissolve stubborn, dried-on pigments.
• White vinegar – A natural disinfectant that helps kill bacteria and mildew without harsh chemicals.
• Hand soap or facial cleanser – Mild and pH-balanced, suitable for sensitive bristles and synthetic fibers.

Tip: Avoid using hot water—it can loosen the glue holding bristles in place and damage natural hair fibers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Brushes

This five-step process ensures a complete cleanse without damaging your brushes. Perform this routine once every 3–4 weeks for everyday-use brushes, or monthly for those used less frequently.

1. Prepare your workspace
   Place a clean towel on your counter near the sink. Gather all brushes you plan to clean. Having everything ready prevents cross-contamination and keeps the process efficient.
2. Rinse under lukewarm water
   Hold the brush at an angle, running lukewarm water only over the bristles. Never submerge the ferrule (the metal part connecting bristles to handle), as water absorption can weaken the glue and cause shedding.
3. Create a gentle cleansing solution
   In a small bowl or cup, mix one part dish soap or shampoo with two parts warm water. For heavily soiled brushes, add a teaspoon of olive oil to help break down stubborn makeup. If disinfection is a priority, mix one tablespoon of white vinegar per half cup of soapy water.
4. Clean the bristles thoroughly
   Swirl the brush in the solution, then gently massage the bristles using your fingers or by rubbing them in circular motions against the palm of your hand. Focus on the base of the bristles where buildup hides. Repeat until the water runs clear and no more color comes out.
5. Rinse and dry properly
   Rinse again under lukewarm water until no suds remain. Gently squeeze excess water with a clean towel. Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat on a dry towel with the bristles hanging slightly over the edge to allow airflow and prevent water from seeping into the handle.

Drying Best Practices

Improper drying is the leading cause of damaged brushes. Standing brushes upright in a cup traps moisture in the ferrule, promoting mold growth and loosening bristles. Always dry flat or use a brush drying rack—if unavailable, drape the brush over the edge of a counter with the bristles pointing downward.

Drying time varies from 4 to 12 hours depending on bristle density and humidity. Do not use brushes until fully dry to avoid bacterial regrowth.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brush Cleaning

Do’s	Don’ts
Use lukewarm water to protect glue and fibers	Submerge the entire brush, especially the ferrule
Massage bristles gently to remove buildup	Scrub aggressively on hard surfaces
Dry brushes flat or with bristles hanging down	Stand brushes upright while drying
Clean natural-hair brushes less frequently (every 3–4 weeks)	Wash natural bristles with harsh detergents
Condition occasionally with a drop of oil	Soak brushes for extended periods

Real Example: How One Artist Transformed Her Routine

Jamila Reyes, a freelance makeup artist based in Austin, used to wash her brushes only when they looked dirty—sometimes going months between cleanings. After developing recurring chin breakouts, she consulted a dermatologist who immediately asked about her brush hygiene.

Following the doctor’s advice, Jamila began a bi-weekly deep cleaning routine using only baby shampoo and olive oil. Within three weeks, her skin cleared up significantly. “I was shocked,” she said. “I thought I was being careful, but the buildup was invisible. Now I clean my main brushes every Sunday night—it takes 20 minutes and has completely changed my skin.”

Her go-to method: swirl each brush in a mixture of one teaspoon baby shampoo and a few drops of olive oil, massage on her palm, rinse, and lay flat to dry overnight. No special tools, no cost beyond what she already owned.

How Often Should You Clean Different Types of Brushes?

Not all brushes require the same frequency of deep cleaning. Usage, material, and product type all influence how quickly they get dirty.

• Foaming or liquid foundation brushes – These pick up oils and emulsifiers and should be deep cleaned every 2–3 weeks.
• Powder and blush brushes – Less prone to bacterial growth but still collect dead skin and ambient dust. Clean every 3–4 weeks.
• Eyeshadow brushes – Especially important due to proximity to eyes. Small shader brushes used with pigmented or cream shadows should be cleaned every 7–10 days; larger blending brushes every 3 weeks.
• Sponges and beauty blenders – Technically not brushes, but often used alongside them. These should be deep cleaned weekly due to high moisture retention and rapid microbial growth.

Tip: Rotate your brushes. Use one set while others dry or rest. This extends their life and ensures you always have clean tools available.

Quick Cleaning Between Deep Cleans

For daily maintenance, a quick wipe-down preserves hygiene without over-washing. Try these simple methods:

• Soap and water spritz: Mix a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle with water. Mist the bristles and swirl on a microfiber cloth.
• DIY brush cleaner: Combine 1 part vodka or rubbing alcohol with 2 parts water and 1 drop of dish soap. Spray and wipe—alcohol disinfects while soap lifts residue.
• Wipe on a clean towel: After each use, especially with cream products, gently wipe bristles on a dry, lint-free cloth to remove excess product.

These techniques reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning and keep brushes performing optimally between full washes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baking soda to clean makeup brushes?

Yes, but sparingly. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can wear down bristles over time. It’s best reserved for emergency deep cleans when other options aren’t available. Mix a small amount with liquid soap to form a paste, gently rub into bristles, rinse thoroughly, and condition after.

Is it safe to use vinegar on all brushes?

Vinegar is generally safe in diluted form (one tablespoon per cup of water) and acts as a natural disinfectant. However, avoid using it frequently on natural-hair brushes, as the acidity may dry out the fibers. Limit vinegar rinses to once every 6–8 weeks.

Why are my brushes shedding after washing?

Some shedding is normal, especially with new brushes (loose bristles from manufacturing). However, excessive shedding usually results from soaking the ferrule, using hot water, or aggressive scrubbing. Always point bristles downward during washing and avoid twisting or pulling.

Final Checklist: Deep Cleaning Your Brushes at Home

1. Collect all brushes due for cleaning.
2. Gather dish soap, shampoo, or mild cleanser.
3. Optional: Add olive oil (for conditioning) or vinegar (for disinfecting).
4. Wet bristles under lukewarm water, avoiding the ferrule.
5. Swirl in soapy solution and massage gently in palm.
6. Rinse until water runs clear.
7. Squeeze out excess water with a towel.
8. Reshape bristles and lay flat to dry overnight.
9. Inspect brushes the next day before reuse.

Conclusion: A Simple Habit with Big Benefits

Deep cleaning your makeup brushes doesn’t require special products or equipment. With just soap, water, and a little attention, you can maintain hygienic, high-performing tools that support healthy skin and flawless makeup application. The process takes less than 30 minutes and pays off in clearer skin, longer-lasting brushes, and better results every time you apply makeup.

Start tonight: gather your most-used brushes, run a quick sink-side cleanse, and let them dry. Make it a monthly ritual, like changing your pillowcases or reapplying phone screen protectors. Your skin will thank you—and so will your favorite eyeshadow brush, years from now.

💬 Have a favorite DIY brush cleaning hack? Share your tip in the comments and help others keep their routines simple, effective, and tool-free.