How to Clean Hairbrushes and Combs Properly

Dirty hairbrush
Photo: Piotr Wawrzyniuk/Shutterstock
Clean hairbrushes and combs are much better for your hair than dirty brushes and combs. Hairbrushes and combs collect debris and the buildup that is transmitted is not good for your hair. Also, combs and brushes become worn down if they are not cleaned properly. Regular cleaning will help these hairstyling tools last longer.
 
At least once a week, or more if needed, be sure to remove all hair that has gathered onto your brush or comb and dispose of those strands in the garbage. There is no need to worry about hair loss, as it is normal to lose a certain amount of strands per day.
 
I have a lot of hair on my head and, since it is so thick, a lot comes out on the comb or hairbrush with each use of a brush, which is normal. Therefore, I focus on removing any hairs that get stuck in combs or hairbrushes about three times a week. Everyone should focus on keeping their hairstyling tools clean, which is not difficult.
 
It is easy and quick to get a clean hairbrush or comb in many ways. Get one hairbrush and one comb together, two combs together, or two hairbrushes together before shampooing your hair. Wet the bristles of the brushes, combs, or brush and comb under warm running water. Then, place a small dab of shampoo onto the bristles of one of the brushes or combs.
 
Carefully rub the bristles of the brushes together when cleaning two brushes at a time. However, take one brush and rub it with the comb when cleaning a comb and brush combination or when cleaning two combs. Gently rub (so that irreplaceable bristles do not fall out) under running water until all suds are gone. Then, dry the brush(es) and/or comb(s) on a towel. If there is still leftover grime on the hairstyling tools, use a cotton swab to get the residue out from between the bristles and repeat the process just mentioned.
 
Dirty hairbrushes with hair, dust and chemicals on it
 
Brushes and combs' bristles gather dust, dirt, and chemicals from hair products, such as gels, mousses, and pomades used daily. I use hair gels, shine serums, and moisturizing lotions, and my styling tools show that. The small particles of product are visible in bristles. Using baking soda to get rid of the chemicals remaining in hair tools is okay.
 
Start with what was mentioned earlier and take all of the unwanted hairs out of the hairbrush or comb and dispose of them into the garbage. Then, soak hairbrushes and combs in the bathroom sink with about half a cup of baking soda and warm water for about fifteen minutes. The final step is to let the combs and brushes air dry on a towel.
 
An exception to the baking-soda process is to remember not to immerse certain types of brushes or combs in the water. These types are the following: the rubber-cushioned brush, wooden-bodied brushes or combs, and natural boar-bristle brushes. Allowing water to pass through the vent hole on cushioned brushes will erode the cushioning of the brush faster than it would be disturbed in its possible shelf life without being immersed in water.
 
A wooden-bodied brush or comb may cause the wood to absorb water, potentially damaging the finish or causing the body to swell and break. Natural boar bristle brushes contain natural hair that would also take in moisture, as would other types of natural hair. The bristles on boar bristle brushes will twist or curl if dampened. Hair care products must be cleaned with care, or they will be damaged and not work properly.
 
Hairstyling tools work best when they are not in bad shape, full of grime and debris. The benefits of using a good and clean hairbrush or comb are hair and a scalp that will feel better and stay fresh for longer, and you will avoid oily buildup at the roots.
 
Running an unclean brush or comb through your freshly shampooed locks can leave them feeling greasy, which defeats the purpose of getting your hair clean in the first place.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
How to choose a good hairbrush
 
How to comb and brush your hair properly
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