Tools — Care guide
How to clean makeup brushes.
A simple, gentle method for washing brushes and sponges—so they blend better, last longer and keep build-up away from your skin.
5 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
Frequency
How often to wash
Foundation and concealer brushes
Around once a week; cream and liquid products build up quickly.
Beauty sponges
Rinse after every use and wash thoroughly at least weekly.
Powder and eye brushes
Every one to two weeks, or sooner if colours start to muddy.
When you have breakouts
Wash more often and avoid sharing tools.
Step by step
The gentle wash method
1. Wet the tips
Run lukewarm water over the bristles, pointing them down so water stays out of the handle.
2. Add a mild cleanser
A drop of gentle shampoo or unscented soap is enough. Swirl on your palm or a cleaning mat.
3. Rinse until clear
Keep rinsing, still bristles-down, until the water runs completely clean.
4. Squeeze and reshape
Press out water with a towel, never twist, and smooth the head back into shape.
5. Dry flat or angled down
Lay brushes on a towel at the edge of a counter. Upright drying lets water loosen the glue.
6. Wait until fully dry
Usually overnight. Damp bristles can trap bacteria and smell.
Sponges
Cleaning a beauty sponge
Soak it in warm water, work a little soap into the stained areas and squeeze repeatedly until the water runs clear. Air-dry somewhere ventilated, not in a closed case.
Avoid
Common mistakes
Hot water
It can loosen glue and frizz synthetic fibres.
Soaking whole brushes
Water in the ferrule shortens a brush's life.
Harsh detergents
Strong cleaners can dry natural hair and irritate skin.
Keeping worn tools
Replace brushes that shed heavily and sponges that tear or stay stained.
