How to Clean Makeup Brushes and Sponges: A Routine That Protects the Tool
Regular cleaning helps makeup tools stay easier to use and keeps product buildup from changing the way a brush or sponge moves.
Brush routine
Wet the bristles with lukewarm water, apply a gentle cleanser, and work the cleanser through the head without twisting the base. Rinse until the water runs clear, then reshape and lay the brush flat to dry.
Sponge routine
Rinse the sponge thoroughly after use. For a deeper clean, work cleanser through the material, rinse well, and air dry completely in a ventilated place. The Desert Mirage Makeup Blending Sponges can be used damp or dry and include rounded, flat, and precision surfaces, so allow every area to dry fully.
Match care to the tool
- Clean a precision tip often when using gel or cream liner. See the Laser Wing Eyeliner Brush.
- For dense foundation brushes, rinse product from the center of the head and avoid leaving the brush standing in water. See the FLAWLESSCORE™ Foundation Brush.
- For powder brushes, remove loose powder before washing and dry the full dome evenly. See the Aura Dome Powder Brush.
Store after drying
Do not seal a damp tool in a bag or case. Once fully dry, store brushes and sponges where the shapes will not be crushed.
For an eyeliner-specific routine, read How to Clean an Eyeliner Brush After Gel or Cream Liner.