A lot of us think that a hairbrush doesn’t need to be cleaned regularly or even replaced. However, it can be quite the bacterial breeding ground. A hairbrush collects all particles, bacteria, and dirt that our hair accumulates during a simple day out. Consequently, every time we brush its bristles through already used and bacteria-infused hair, we speed up the process of making our hair greasy and dirty. So if it isn’t obvious yet, know that hair brush care is also part of a good hair care routine.
Hairbrushes: A Hotspot for Germs
According to media outlet Bustle, it’s crucial to properly clean our hairbrushes to maintain those good hair days. Experts even advise washing them at least twice a month. Cleaning hairbrushes has become a trending topic on social media, with millions of videos posted on TikTok using hashtags like #CleanHairBrushes and #HowToCleanHairBrushes.
To address the question: How should we meticulously clean our brushes? Bustle consulted Todd Faulk, a Principal Professor in Cosmetology at the Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute in Dallas: “Overlooking this critical step can quickly make us look unkempt,” he clarified. He also added, “If you’re not properly cleansing your hairbrush, you could potentially damage the brush’s structure based on the products you’re applying on your hair and the brush’s material.”
The Steps to Clean your Hairbrush:
#1 Remove all hair and debris from the brush.
#2 For a standard brush, place it in a basin of soapy warm water. For a boar bristle brush, since soap can get stuck, it’s recommended to use rubbing alcohol.
#3 Rinse the brush clean.
#4 Wring the brush and allow it to air-dry on a clean, unused towel.
Regarding the cleaning frequency, the expert advises a once-a-month cleaning: “You should be cleaning your hair tools and brushes at least once a month to avoid a buildup of bacteria and mold.” And as for replacing your brushes: “When it looks old, tired, and completely worn-out, that’s when it’s time to say goodbye and invest in a new hairbrush.” Now, you’re all set!