Cleaning Makeup Brushes and Sponges

Dirty makeup brushes and sponges hold bacteria and germs. They should be washed frequently, about 2-3 times a month. For professionals they should be washed more often, after contact with every clients skin. 

 You can use a brush cleaner, make your own (2 parts water 1 part vinegar) or use a mild shampoo or facial cleanser. Using a harsh shampoo or facial cleanser on brushes will only ruin the bristles texture and make them useless for makeup application. 

Wash all brushes that are used in liquid makeup daily. All other brushes should be washed weekly or bi weekly the latest.

The steps to cleaning brushes are very simple

1. Fill a small bowl or cup with warm water and cleaner, or the homemade solution.
2. Dip brush bristles in solution and swirl gently (Make sure not to get the handle wet, getting the handle wet will ruin the brush and make mold that will hold bacteria). Sponges can be soaked in cleaner
3. Massage bristles between fingertips to loosen any makeup between bristles. squeeze sponges to work in cleaner
4. Rinse bristles in clean water until water runs clear (keeping brush bristles faced down to keep handles from getting wet). Squeeze sponges until water is clear.
5. Gently pat brushes on a clean towel (to remove excess water), and squeeze water from sponges then lay flat to dry, a blow dryer can be used on a cool setting to speed the drying process 

Sanitizing is another important step to kill germs and bacteria. After brushes and sponges have been washed use a small spray bottle filled with the strongest alcohol you can find 99% is the best. Then let them continue to dry.

There are daily brush cleaners that can be used to keep brushes clean in between weekly deep cleaning. After deep cleaning brushes you will notice your makeup looking more fresh, since old makeup residue and oils aren't tampering with the pigments or consistency.