How to Clean Hair Brushes and Combs Like a Pro

Cleaning your hair tools might not be at the top of your list, but it’s a small task that can make a big difference. A well-maintained brush keeps your hair shiny and healthy by removing dirt, oils, and product buildup. Here’s a quick guide on how to clean your brushes and combs with items you probably have at home.

How Often Should You Clean Hairbrushes?

Regular cleaning removes product residue, scalp oils, and dirt that build up over time. A monthly deep clean works for most brushes. If you use a lot of styling products or have long hair, aim for every two weeks. And if you deal with dandruff, a weekly clean will help keep flakes from reappearing in your hair.

What You’ll Need

Tools & Materials:

• Pintail Comb
• Toothbrush
• Shampoo (without conditioners)
• Tweezers
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Disinfecting Spray
• Baking Soda
• Cotton Swab

How to Clean Synthetic Bristle Brushes

1. Remove Hair: Use a pintail comb, tweezers, or your fingers to pull hair out of the bristles.
2. Wash: Soak the brush in warm water with a couple of teaspoons of shampoo. Use a toothbrush to scrub away grime between the bristles.
3. Scrub Product Buildup: For any stubborn buildup, dip the toothbrush in dry baking soda and scrub gently.
4. Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and place the brush bristles-down on a towel to dry.
5. Sanitize: For extra cleanliness, dip the brush in a mix of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water, then air dry bristles-down.

How to Clean Natural Bristle Brushes

1. Remove Hair: Clear out any hair just like with synthetic brushes.
2. Soak Bristles Only: Submerge the bristles (but not the handle) in a bowl of warm water with a teaspoon of shampoo for about 10 minutes.
3. Gently Scrub: Work the shampoo through the bristles with your hands.
4. Clean Handle: If the handle needs cleaning, use a toothbrush to scrub it lightly, then wipe with a towel.
5. Rinse & Dry: Rinse the bristles, avoiding the handle, and let the brush dry bristles-down on a towel.

How to Clean a Synthetic Comb

1. Soak: Let the comb sit in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes.
2. Scrub: Use a toothbrush to clean between the teeth of the comb, removing any residue.
3. Rinse & Dry: Rinse well and lay flat to dry.
4. Sanitize: Wipe the comb with rubbing alcohol and allow it to air dry.

How to Clean Wooden Combs

1. Scrub Gently: Dip a toothbrush in warm, soapy water and scrub between the teeth carefully.
2. Dry & Sanitize: Wipe down the comb with a towel and air dry. For sanitizing, lightly spray with a disinfectant and let it dry before using.

How to Remove Lint from Your Hairbrush

After removing the hair, you might notice lint or gray fuzz at the base of the brush. This buildup of scalp oils and product residue can be tougher to remove:

1. Deep Clean: Soak the brush in a mixture of water and vinegar for up to 30 minutes if regular cleaning doesn’t cut it.
2. Brush It Out: Use a clean, dry toothbrush to remove the lint by sweeping through the bristles horizontally and vertically.
3. Rinse & Dry: Give the brush a final rinse and dry with the bristles facing down.

Tips to Keep Your Hair Tools Cleaner for Longer:

• Remove hair from the bristles after each use.
• Use less styling product to avoid buildup.
• Store your brushes and combs in a closed space to protect them from dust and debris.