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Cleaniing Matters
   
Cleaning Matters March/April 2008
You are here: Cleaning Matters HomeThe Brush-Off

The Brush-Off
Care and cleaning of makeup brushes, hair brushes and toothbrushes

Hairbrushes, makeup brushes and toothbrushes are part of our everyday grooming routines. But these aids to helping us look good can harbor bacteria that are anything but good for us. To avoid this, Nancy Bock, Vice President of Education at The Soap and Detergent Association, recommends a regular cleaning and replacement routine.

Makeup brushes: With proper care, a good makeup brush can last for years. To clean it, run the bristles under warm water. Then apply a small amount of liquid hand soap, liquid dish detergent or shampoo and work up a light lather. Rinse the brush until the water runs clear of soap and makeup residue. Using your fingers, gently mold the bristles into their original shape and then let the brush air-dry.

Hair brushes: These are easiest to clean in pairs–either two hairbrushes or a hairbrush and comb. Gently run the bristles of one hairbrush or the comb through the other brush to remove the hairs that have accumulated. Wet the bristles under warm running water. Apply a small amount of liquid hand soap, liquid dish detergent or shampoo onto the bristles of either the brush or comb. Rub the two together gently so the hairbrush bristles don't fall out and then rinse under warm running water. If any gunk–such as residue from hair products–remains, use a cotton swab to remove the particles; then repeat the cleaning process. This gentle cleaning method is better than soaking. Soaking will erode the rubber on cushioned brushes, damage the finish on wood-bodied brushes, and may twist or curl the bristles on boar-bristle brushes.

Toothbrushes: Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with tap water after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris. Replace the toothbrush approximately every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed with use.

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Cleaning Matters is compiled by The Soap and Detergent Association and is not copyrighted. Such information is offered solely to aid the reader. The Soap and Detergent Association and its member companies do not make any guarantees or warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to the information contained in Cleaning Matters and assume no responsibility for the use of this information.