I Tried 6 Ways to Clean My Makeup Brushes — Here’s What Actually Worked

 

Let's be honest — cleaning makeup brushes is one of those chores we all know we should do more often, but somehow keep putting off. I was guilty of letting my brushes go way too long without a proper clean, and my skin was definitely paying the price.

Dirty brushes don't just affect your complexion; they can also impact how smoothly your makeup applies and even shorten the lifespan of your favorite tools. A good makeup brush cleaner isn't just about hygiene; it's about elevating your entire beauty routine.

So, I decided to test 6 popular methods for cleaning makeup brushes to figure out once and for all: what actually works best?

Here’s what I found:

1. Soap & Warm Water – The Classic Go-To

This old-school method is still a favorite for many. All you need is some lukewarm water and a gentle soap—like baby shampoo or dish soap.

Simply wet the bristles (avoiding the base of the brush), lather up with soap in your palm or on a cleaning mat, and swirl until the makeup starts to break down. Rinse, reshape, and lay flat to dry.

It’s effective, budget-friendly, and gets the job done—especially for lighter products like powders. The downside? It takes time, and brushes can stay wet for hours. Plus, heavy foundations and oils might not come out completely.

Still, it’s a great method if you’re doing a deeper clean every few weeks. Just be sure to dry your brushes properly to avoid damage.

2. GlowSpin™ 3-in-1 Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner & Dryer – Effortless Clean, Flawless Face

When it comes to cleaning makeup brushes, most people fall into one of two camps: they either forget to do it or dread doing it. It’s time-consuming, messy, and often doesn’t feel worth the effort. But what many don’t realize is that dirty brushes can affect your skin health, makeup application, and the overall lifespan of your tools.

That’s where the GlowSpin™ offers a smarter solution.

Unlike traditional methods that rely on manual scrubbing and long drying times, this electric brush cleaner was designed to make the process faster, easier, and more hygienic — especially for people who wear makeup regularly or have sensitive skin.

Why It Matters:
Built-up product, oil, and bacteria can cause breakouts and skin irritation. Cleaning brushes thoroughly—and regularly—is essential, but it’s often skipped because of how much time it takes.

Many people don’t realize that using unclean brushes can also affect makeup performance. Brushes caked with product won’t apply foundation smoothly or blend colors properly.

• Air-drying brushes after washing can take several hours, and if stored improperly while damp, they can develop mold or damage the bristles.
• How the GlowSpin™ Helps:
  Dual cleaning modes allow you to switch between quick, everyday cleaning and deeper cleans for heavily used brushes like foundation or concealer applicators.
• The universal-fit design works with most brush sizes, so you don’t need multiple tools for different types of brushes.
• It’s USB-powered, compact, and easy to use—even for beginners.
• The integrated drying system means brushes can be cleaned and dried in the same space, making it ideal for tight schedules or travel.

By reducing cleaning time and improving hygiene, the GlowSpin™ helps you get more out of your brushes, your makeup products, and your skincare routine. If you’re someone who cares about your skin or simply wants to streamline your beauty habits, this tool offers a practical solution that fits seamlessly into your routine.

3. Olive Oil & Dish Soap Combo – Best for Deep-Cleaning

This method is great for breaking down tough, built-up makeup—especially from dense foundation or cream brushes. The olive oil helps loosen stubborn product and condition the bristles, while the dish soap cuts through the grease.

To try it, mix equal parts olive oil and dish soap on a plate, dip your brush in, and swirl gently. Rinse thoroughly with warm water until clean. Be careful not to use too much oil, or your brushes might feel greasy after.

It’s effective for deep cleans, but not ideal for daily use as it can leave residue if not rinsed well.

4. Micellar Water Soak – Gentle Yet Effective

Micellar water is known for removing makeup from skin, but it can also work on your brushes—especially for light buildup and delicate bristles.

Just pour some into a small bowl, soak your brush tips for a few minutes, then swirl and rinse. It lifts away residue without harsh scrubbing, making it a good option for quick cleans or sensitive brush types.

It’s not strong enough for heavy-duty cleaning, but it’s great in between deeper washes.

5. Quick-Dry Cleaning Sprays – Fast & Convenient

These sprays are perfect for spot-cleaning brushes between uses. Just spritz directly onto the bristles or a tissue, swirl the brush, and let it air dry—usually within minutes.

They’re great for removing surface makeup and switching between colors quickly, especially with eye shadow brushes. However, they don’t deep-clean or sanitize, so they shouldn’t replace regular washing.

Ideal for busy days or on-the-go touch-ups.

6. Silicone Brush Cleaning Mats – Extra Scrubbing Power

These textured mats help lift makeup, dirt, and oils more effectively than your hand alone. Just place the mat in your sink, add some soap, and swirl your wet brush over the grooves.

The different textures are designed for various brush types, giving you a deeper clean with less effort. They’re reusable, affordable, and easy to clean afterward.

Perfect for anyone who cleans multiple brushes at once.

Final Thoughts

After testing all these methods, one thing became crystal clear: while some methods offer a decent spot clean or a budget-friendly option, none truly compare when it comes to efficiency, thoroughness, and convenience. Keeping your brushes clean is vital for healthy skin and flawless makeup application, but it shouldn't feel like a huge chore.

If you're serious about maintaining hygienic tools, protecting your skin, and reclaiming your precious time, investing in an effective makeup brush cleaner is a game-changer. No more soaking, no more endless scrubbing, and definitely no more waiting hours for brushes to air dry.

The GlowSpin™ 3-in-1 Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner & Dryer truly stands out as the ultimate solution for getting your brushes spotless and dry in mere seconds. It transforms a dreaded task into something quick and even enjoyable.