Haircare Hygiene 101: How to Clean Boar Bristle Brushes
Boar bristle brushes are renowned for their ability to smooth flyaways, distribute oils, and impart shine – but only when properly maintained. Like any hairbrush, boar bristles need regular deep cleaning to remove built-up residue and keep them in top condition. Read to learn more about simple methods on how to clean boar bristle brushes, supplies needed, tips, and answers to FAQS.
Why Clean Boar Bristle Brushes?
With consistent use, boar bristle brushes collect:
- Hair products like gel, mousse, and hairspray
- Dirt, oil, and dead skin cells
- Loose hairs tangled deep in the bristles
If not cleaned, this buildup can:
- Make hair dirty and greasy instead of glossy
- Transfer collected debris back to hair
- Harbor bacteria and microorganisms
- Lead to shedding as residue degrades bristles
Regular cleaning keeps boar bristles functioning optimally for smoothing and shining hair.
How to Clean Boar Bristle Brush Supplies Needed:
- Comb or brush cleaning tool
- Baking soda or soap
- Apple cider vinegar or shampoo
- Bowl of water
- Towels
How to Clean Boar Bristle Brush For Natural Bristles Step 1:
De-Hair the Brush Use a brush cleaning comb, old toothbrush, or special de-tangling tool to gently remove all loose hairs caught in the bristles. Take care not to cut or damage bristles.
Step 2 – Make a Paste
Add 1-2 tbsp of baking soda to a small amount of water or shampoo to form a grainy paste. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that will lift oil and residue without harming natural boar bristles.
Step 3 – Scrub Bristles
Dip the bristle tips in the past, then use your cleaning comb to work it down into the brush base, scrubbing gently. Use an old toothbrush to reach trapped debris near the brush neck.
Step 4 Rinse Well
Rinse bristles under warm running water until the water runs clear and all paste is gone. Turn the brush bristle-side down while rinsing to let water drain out easily.
Step 5 – Disinfect
Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water. Dip just the bristle tips in the solution and let sit for 5 minutes. This kills bacteria for fresh, sanitized bristles.
Step 6 – Air Dry
After the final rinse, gently press the bristles into a clean towel to absorb excess moisture. Reshape bristles delicately while damp. Allow to completely air dry upside down overnight.
For Nylon Bristles Use a milder approach on nylon bristles, which can fray when scrubbed aggressively.
Step 1 – Rinse Bristles Rinse upside-down under warm water to loosen surface debris. Avoid getting water on the brush base if wooden.
Step 2 – Shampoo Work a dollop of gentle shampoo into bristles using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Avoid scrubbing.
Step 3 – Second Rinse Rinse shampoo out until water runs clear. Soak bristles in a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water for 2 minutes to sanitize.
Step 4 – Air Dry Blot excess moisture with a clean towel. Reshape bristles neatly and allow to fully air dry upside down. Rotate while drying to prevent flattening in spots.
How to Clean Boar Bristle Brush Tips for Extending Time Between Cleaning:
- Use a brush-cleaning glove daily to remove loose hairs and debris between washes.
- Avoid applying styling products directly to the brush. Instead, apply to hair first.
- If the brush becomes greasy mid-use, rinse bristles in warm water and wipe dry.
- Let bristles fully air dry after each use to prevent buildup.
- Consider having 2 boar bristle brushes in rotation to extend the time between deep cleans.
How to Clean Boar Bristle Brush Summary:
Boar bristle brushes stay effective longer when cleaned routinely every 4-6 weeks to remove accumulated products, oils, and hair. Use baking soda scrubs for natural bristles and mild shampoo for nylon. With proper maintenance, a quality boar bristle brush can last for years.
How to Clean Boar Bristle Brush FAQS:
How often should I clean it?
Answer: Every 4-6 weeks is ideal, or whenever bristles appear greasy. Clean more often if you use many styling products.
Can I use toothpaste?
Answer: Avoid toothpaste, as the abrasives can damage the delicate bristles over time. Baking soda is gentler.
How do I sanitize?
Answer: Soak bristles in an apple cider vinegar/water solution or hydrogen peroxide after scrubbing to disinfect.
Any special drying tips?
Answer: Dry upside down on a towel overnight, rotating occasionally as it dries to prevent bristle flat spots.
Can I use a hair dryer?
Answer: Air drying is best. A hairdryer can weaken the glue binding the bristles over time with repeated use.
Keeping boar bristle brushes debris-free maximizes their shine-enhancing abilities. Follow a regular schedule of deep cleaning every 4-6 weeks based on use, along with daily upkeep. With care, a quality boar bristle brush can beautifully manage hair for years.
