Can You Put Hair Brushes in Dishwasher? The Ultimate Guide to Cleaner, Healthier Hair Tools!

Are you tired of your hair brushes becoming a breeding ground for dirt, hair, and product buildup? You’re not alone! Many people wonder if they can simply toss their brushes into the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean. But can you put hair brushes in the dishwasher? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on the type of brush and the material it’s made of.

The Risks of Putting Hair Brushes in the Dishwasher

While it might seem like a convenient solution, putting hair brushes in the dishwasher can have some serious downsides:

• Damage to the Brush: The high heat and harsh detergents in a dishwasher can melt, warp, or damage the bristles of your hair brush, especially if they are made of natural materials like boar bristle.
• Rusting: Metal parts of your brush, like the handle or pins, can rust in the dishwasher due to the moisture and heat.
• Deterioration of the Handle: Some brush handles are made of materials that can crack or become brittle in the dishwasher.
• Cross-Contamination: The dishwasher can be a breeding ground for bacteria, and putting your hair brush in with dirty dishes can lead to cross-contamination.

Which Hair Brushes Can You Put in the Dishwasher?

While most hair brushes should not be put in the dishwasher, there are a few exceptions:

• Plastic Brushes: Plastic hair brushes are generally safe to put in the dishwasher, but it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions first.
• Heat-Resistant Brushes: Some brushes are specifically designed to be dishwasher safe and will have a label indicating this.

The Best Way to Clean Your Hair Brushes

The safest and most effective way to clean your hair brushes is by hand. Here’s how:

1. Remove Excess Hair: Use your fingers or a comb to remove any loose hair from the brush.
2. Soak the Brush: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a mild shampoo or dish soap. Soak the brush for 15-20 minutes.
3. Clean the Bristles: Use a toothbrush or a small brush to gently scrub the bristles and remove any dirt or product buildup.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the brush thoroughly with warm water until all the soap is gone.
5. Dry the Brush: Lay the brush flat on a towel or hang it upside down to air dry.

How to Clean Different Types of Hair Brushes

Here’s a breakdown of how to clean different types of hair brushes:

Paddle Brushes:

• Remove excess hair.
• Soak in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes.
• Use a toothbrush to scrub the bristles and the base of the brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Round Brushes:

• Remove excess hair.
• Soak in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes.
• Use a toothbrush to scrub the bristles and the base of the brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a hairdryer on a low setting.

Boar Bristle Brushes:

• Remove excess hair.
• Soak in warm, soapy water for 5-10 minutes.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the boar bristles.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Detangling Brushes:

• Remove excess hair.
• Soak in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes.
• Use a toothbrush to scrub the bristles and the base of the brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

How Often Should You Clean Your Hair Brushes?

The frequency of cleaning your hair brushes depends on how often you use them and the amount of product you use in your hair. As a general rule of thumb:

• Daily: If you use your hair brush every day, clean it at least once a week.
• Weekly: If you use your hair brush a few times a week, clean it once a month.
• Monthly: If you use your hair brush infrequently, clean it every few months.

Tips for Keeping Your Hair Brushes Clean

• Avoid using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage the bristles of your hair brush and make them brittle.
• Don’t use hot water: Hot water can melt or warp the bristles of your hair brush.
• Don’t put your hair brush in the washing machine: The washing machine can damage the bristles and the handle of your hair brush.
• Store your hair brush properly: Store your hair brush in a dry place to prevent mildew and bacteria growth.

The Bottom Line: Can You Put Hair Brushes in the Dishwasher?

While some plastic brushes are safe to put in the dishwasher, it’s generally not recommended for most hair brushes. The best way to clean your hair brushes is by hand using a mild shampoo or dish soap. Remember to clean your brushes regularly to keep them in good condition and prevent the buildup of dirt, hair, and product.

What People Want to Know

Q: What if my hair brush has a wooden handle?

A: Wooden handles are generally not dishwasher safe. The heat and moisture can cause the wood to warp or crack. It’s best to clean wooden-handled brushes by hand.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my hair brush?

A: Bleach can be too harsh for your hair brush and can damage the bristles. It’s best to use a mild shampoo or dish soap.

Q: How long can I use a hair brush before I need to replace it?

A: Most hair brushes should last for several years with proper care. However, if the bristles become frayed or the brush starts to break apart, it’s time to replace it.