Tips for cleaning all of your beauty tools and essentials

When we get ready of a morning, it’s unlikely that we think too much about the things we’re using – we just want to get out and start the day.

But we really should pay attention to the products and tools we use to apply makeup, style our locks or pluck stray hairs, as they can contain harmful bacteria and get very grubby indeed.

Simply wiping them over isn’t enough so we have a list of ways you can deep clean your beauty tools quickly. You’ll be back to your routine in no time!

Hair curler or straightener

Our hot tools can get quite dirty due to product and oils in your hair. To clean, make sure your curler or straightener is cool, then use a wet towel dipped in a baking soda mixture to scrub off build up on the plates. Wipe off with a clean cloth and let dry fully.

Pencil sharpener

This beauty must have can become dirty from the first time you use it and it should be sanitise at least every three months. Rub alcohol over the blade and rinse out any gunk. Use an old toothbrush with makeup remover on it to get out any eyeliner remnants. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust.

Mascara

Mascara bottles are a breeding ground for germs. To prevent any clumps and build-up, spritz the brush with alcohol and wipe with a paper towel or wet wipe. Let dry before popping back in the bottle.

Comb or hair brush

Remove all the hair from your brush or comb and then use an old toothbrush dipped in shampoo to scrub the base. This will remove any lint.

Hairdryer

When your hair dryer starts cutting off on you, then you know it’s time for a thorough cleansing. After unplugging, take a toothbrush and run it over the vent in back. Depending on your dryer’s make, you can twist off the vent(s) or open up the unit to loosen the lint inside. Once you reassemble, your hair dryer will run like new.

Eyelash curler

Keep germs at bay and your eyelash curler in tip-top shape by using a makeup remover and a cotton pad to clean mascara buildup. Also, when your rubber pads start to go, be sure to replace them to ensure your curler and eyes work their best.

Make up brushes

Make up brushes build up with a lot of product over time, not to mention bacteria and germs. To clean, use a branded makeup brush cleaner or baby shampoo in a shallow bowl, and put the ends of your brush in. Swirl around then squeeze out the excess liquid and repeat until no more makeup comes out. Rinse them out in warm water and let dry by sitting them on a clean towel.

Sponges

Like brushes, sponges soak up makeup and need to be washed every week. Apply your makeup brush cleaner or some baby shape to the sponge and work into a lather in your fingers. Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear. Wring out and let air dry.

Metal tools – tweezers etc

Even smaller metal objects can get grubby, so it’s important to sanitise them weekly. Remove any rubber pieces and wash with warm water and soap. Then dip in rubbing alcohol and leave to dry. If your tweezers are dull, use a fingenail file to fine-tune the edges.

Loofah

Every couple of weeks, it’s good to sanitise your loofah. It collects dirt off your body and over time can turn brown or be discoloured. Avoid this by soaking in a warm basin filled with a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and water. Soak for half an hour and rinse.

False eyelashes

Contrary to popular belief, you can reuse fake eyelashes. All you need to do is use a cotton tip and isopropyl alcohol to sanitise the lash strip to remove any glue.

What other beauty products do you clean?