How to Clean a Hair Brush

People spend a lot of time styling their hair so they look their best, but most don't give much thought to maintaining a clean hair brush. A hair brush is used frequently so it doesn't take long for residue from hair care products to build up. Maintain a clean hair brush with these simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Shampoo
• Lukewarm water
• Sink or bowl
• Comb
• Old toothbrush
• Towel
• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Check the material types used to make the hair brush. Some brushes are made with sensitive materials and should not be left to soak in a cleansing solution for an extended period of time. The water can warp wood based brushes and cause deterioration to brushes made with rubber materials.

2. Remove hair from the hair brush. Use a wide-tooth comb or the tail end of a tail comb to loosen the hair. Pull all of the hair from the bristles.

3. Make a cleansing solution. Fill the bathroom sink or a bowl with lukewarm water and a small amount of shampoo.

4. Dip the brush in the soapy water. Twirl the brush in the water to cover it with soap. Use an old toothbrush to remove residue from the hair brush. Scrub the hair brush bristles and the brush base with the toothbrush until the residue is gone.

5. Rinse the hair brush in cool water. Make sure to rinse all of the soap out of the brush.

6. Shake off all excess water. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the hair brush, making sure to remove the soapy solution from the hair brush base and bristles. Place the hair brush on a paper towel to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the brush once a week to keep your hair looking its best.

• Avoid immersing hair brushes with rubber material in a soaking solution. The water ruins the hair brush by trapping water inside of the brush.

Resources

• Hair brushes 101
• Get information on hair brushes and keeping your hair healthy.
• Review an article on cleaning hair brushes properly.