The Ultimate Beauty Blender Cleaning Guide

Table of Contents

What is a beauty blender?

Beauty blenders are makeup tools used for applying and blending foundation, concealer, and other liquid or cream-based cosmetics onto the skin. It is typically made of a soft, sponge-like material designed to be dampened before use. The sponge has a rounded shape with a pointed tip and a broad base, allowing for precise application in different areas of the face.

Beauty blenders are popular because they provide a smooth and flawless application. They help build coverage without looking heavy and can be used for sheer and full-coverage makeup looks. They are often preferred over brushes for liquid and cream products because they give a more natural, skin-like finish. Beauty blenders come in various sizes, colors, and materials, and they can be washed and reused with proper cleaning.

How To Clean A Beauty Blender in Under 5 Minutes

Credit: IPSY on Youtube

Cleaning a beauty blender is essential to maintaining its hygiene and performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a make-up beauty blender:

Wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated, as this will help in the cleaning process.
Apply gentle cleanser: Apply a small amount of mild liquid soap or a specialized makeup sponge cleanser onto the damp beauty blender. Alternatively, you can use a gentle shampoo or a mild facial cleanser.
Work the cleanser into the sponge: Gently massage and squeeze the beauty blender to work the cleanser into the sponge. Focus on the areas where makeup is heavily deposited, such as the base or the tip of the sponge.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of cleanser and makeup residue until the water runs clear. This may require several rounds of rinsing.
Squeeze out excess water: Once the beauty blender is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water. Be careful not to wring or twist the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Avoid using a hairdryer or any direct heat source, as this can also cause damage. Ensure the beauty blender is completely dry before storing or using it again.
Deep clean periodically: In addition to regular cleaning, it is recommended to deep clean your beauty blender once a week or every few uses. To do this, you can soak the sponge in a mixture of warm water and mild cleanser for about 10-15 minutes. Then, follow the same steps mentioned above to rinse and dry the beauty blender.

Remember, maintaining a clean beauty blender not only helps extend its lifespan but also ensures that you’re applying makeup onto a clean surface, reducing the risk of skin irritation or breakouts.

other popular ways to clean a beauty blender

In addition to the standard cleaning method described earlier, here are a few additional ways to clean a beauty blender:

how to deep-deep-deep clean a beauty blender

To deep clean your beauty blender, you can follow these steps:

Wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Prepare a cleaning solution: Fill a bowl or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild liquid soap, gentle shampoo, or a specialized makeup sponge cleanser. You can also use a mixture of warm water and a gentle facial cleanser.
Soak the beauty blender: Place the wet beauty blender into the cleaning solution, ensuring that it is fully submerged. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This soaking time will help to loosen and dissolve the makeup residue within the sponge.
Massage and squeeze: After the soaking period, take the beauty blender out of the solution and gently massage and squeeze it. This will help to work the cleaning solution into the sponge, further loosening and removing the makeup build-up.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of the cleaning solution and makeup residue until the water runs clear. You may need to repeat the rinsing process a few times to ensure thorough cleaning.
Squeeze out excess water: Once the beauty blender is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again. This drying process may take a few hours, depending on the sponge’s thickness and moisture content.

Deep cleaning your beauty blender on a regular basis helps to remove stubborn stains, bacteria, and product build-up, ensuring that it remains clean and in good condition for optimal makeup application.

how to clean beauty blender using a microwave

Cleaning your beauty blender using the microwave method can be an effective way to deep clean and sanitize it. Here’s how you can do it:

Wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Place the beauty blender in a microwave-safe bowl: Take a microwave-safe bowl and fill it with water. Place the wet beauty blender into the bowl, ensuring that it is fully submerged in water. Make sure there is enough water to cover the sponge entirely.
Add mild cleanser (optional): If desired, you can add a few drops of mild liquid soap or a specialized makeup sponge cleanser to the water in the bowl. This can enhance the cleaning process.
Microwave the bowl: Place the bowl with the beauty blender and water in the microwave. Set the microwave to high power and heat the bowl for about 1 minute. It’s essential to keep a close eye on the microwave during this process to prevent the water from overheating and boiling over.
Allow it to cool: Once the microwave cycle is complete, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel. Allow the bowl and the beauty blender to cool down for a few minutes until they are safe to handle.
Rinse 100% thoroughly: Take the beauty blender out of the bowl and rinse it under running water. Squeeze and massage the sponge while rinsing to remove any remaining soap or residue. Rinse until the water runs clear.
Squeeze out the water that’s left: Gently squeeze out the excess water from the beauty blender. Avoid twisting or wringing the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry it: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Make sure it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Remember to exercise caution when handling hot items from the microwave, and ensure the beauty blender is thoroughly cooled down before rinsing and drying. The microwave method can be a quick and effective way to deep clean your beauty blender, eliminating bacteria and sanitizing the sponge.

how to clean a beauty blender with cosmetic cleansers

To clean your beauty blender with a cleanser, you can follow these steps:

Completely wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is fully saturated.
Apply the cleanser: Apply a small amount of your chosen cleanser directly onto the damp beauty blender. You can use a specialized makeup sponge cleanser, mild liquid soap, gentle shampoo, or even a gentle facial cleanser.
Work the cleanser fully into the sponge: Gently massage and squeeze the beauty blender to work the cleanser into the sponge. Pay extra attention to the areas where makeup is heavily deposited, such as the base or the tip of the sponge. Continue to work the cleanser into the sponge until it lathers up, and you can see the makeup residue starting to dissolve.
Rinse completely through: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of the cleanser and makeup residue until the water runs clear. Repeat the rinsing process as needed until the sponge is completely clean.
Squeeze out the excess water that’s left: Once the beauty blender is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry in a ventilated space: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Using a cleanser specifically designed for makeup sponges or a mild alternative helps to break down and remove makeup residue effectively. It also helps to keep the beauty blender sanitized and free from bacteria. Regularly cleaning your beauty blender with a cleanser ensures its longevity and maintains a hygienic makeup application.

how to clean beauty blender in a washing machine

Cleaning a beauty blender in a washing machine is not recommended, as it can damage both the beauty blender and the washing machine. Beauty blenders are delicate and can easily tear or get damaged in the washing machine’s agitator or during the spin cycle.

It’s best to clean your beauty blender using gentle manual methods, such as the ones mentioned earlier, which involve wetting the sponge, applying cleanser, and rinsing it thoroughly under running water. These manual methods allow for better control and protection of the beauty blender’s integrity.

If you’re looking for a more convenient option, you can also consider using specialized makeup sponge cleansers or solid cleansers designed specifically for cleaning beauty blenders. These cleansers are formulated to effectively remove makeup residue and bacteria from the sponge without the need for a washing machine.

Remember to clean your beauty blender regularly after each use to maintain its cleanliness, performance, and longevity.

how to clean beauty blender with baking soda

Cleaning a beauty blender with baking soda can be an effective method to remove stubborn stains and odors. Here’s how you can do it:

Wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Prepare a baking soda paste: In a small bowl, mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create a paste. You can adjust the quantities as needed to achieve a thick yet spreadable consistency.
Apply the baking soda paste: Apply the baking soda paste directly onto the wet beauty blender. Focus on the areas with stubborn stains or discoloration.
Massage and squeeze: Gently massage the baking soda paste into the sponge, working it thoroughly into the stained areas. You can use your fingers or gently squeeze the sponge to help distribute the paste and work it into the fabric.
Let it sit: Once the baking soda paste is applied, let it sit on the beauty blender for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the baking soda to penetrate and lift the stains and odors from the sponge.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while squeezing and massaging it to remove the baking soda paste. Rinse until the water runs clear and all traces of the paste and stains are removed.
Squeeze out extra water: Gently squeeze out the excess water from the beauty blender. Avoid twisting or wringing the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air-dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Using baking soda as a cleaning agent can help to break down stubborn stains and eliminate odors from your beauty blender. However, it’s important to note that baking soda can be slightly abrasive, so it’s best to use this method occasionally or when you have particularly stubborn stains to tackle. Regular cleaning with mild cleansers is still recommended for routine maintenance.

how to clean beauty blender with dish soap

Cleaning a beauty blender with dish soap is a simple and effective method. Here’s how you can do it:

Start by wetting the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Apply the dish soap: Apply a small amount of mild dish soap directly onto the wet beauty blender. You can use a gentle dish soap that is free from harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Work the soap thoroughly into the sponge: Gently massage and squeeze the beauty blender to work the dish soap into the sponge. Pay extra attention to the areas where makeup is heavily deposited, such as the base or the tip of the sponge. Continue to work the soap into the sponge until it lathers up, and you can see the makeup residue starting to dissolve.
Rinse it completely: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of the dish soap and makeup residue until the water runs clear. Repeat the rinsing process as needed until the sponge is completely clean.
Squeeze out excess water: Once the beauty blender is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Using dish soap helps to break down and remove makeup residue effectively. However, make sure to choose a mild dish soap without harsh chemicals that can potentially irritate the skin. Regularly cleaning your beauty blender with dish soap helps to maintain its cleanliness, performance, and hygiene.

how to clean a beauty blender naturally with vinegar

If you prefer to clean your beauty blender using natural ingredients, here’s a simple method:

Wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Prepare a cleaning solution: In a bowl or container, mix equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Vinegar has natural antibacterial properties that can help disinfect the beauty blender.
Soak the beauty blender: Place the wet beauty blender into the vinegar and water mixture, ensuring that it is fully submerged. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This soaking time will help to loosen and dissolve the makeup residue within the sponge.
Massage & squeeze: After the soaking period, take the beauty blender out of the solution and gently massage and squeeze it. This will help to work the cleaning solution into the sponge, further loosening and removing the makeup build-up.
Rinse-thoroughly: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of the vinegar and makeup residue until the water runs clear. Repeat the rinsing process as needed until the sponge is completely clean.
Squeeze out all the water: Gently squeeze out the excess water from the beauty blender. Avoid twisting or wringing the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Fully Air dry it: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Using a vinegar and water solution provides a natural and effective way to clean and disinfect your beauty blender. Vinegar helps to break down makeup residue and kill bacteria. Additionally, vinegar is readily available in most households and is an eco-friendly option. Regularly cleaning your beauty blender using this natural method helps to maintain its cleanliness and hygiene.

how to clean beauty blender with baby soap

Cleaning your beauty blender with baby soap is a gentle and effective method. Here’s how you can do it:

Soak the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
Apply baby soap: Apply a small amount of baby soap directly onto the wet beauty blender. Baby soaps are typically mild and gentle, making them suitable for cleaning delicate items like beauty blenders.
Work the soap into the sponge: Gently massage and squeeze the beauty blender to work the baby soap into the sponge. Focus on the areas where makeup is heavily deposited, such as the base or the tip of the sponge. Continue to work the soap into the sponge until it lathers up, and you can see the makeup residue starting to dissolve.
Rinse it through thoroughly: Rinse the beauty blender under running water while continuing to squeeze and massage it. Make sure to remove all traces of the baby soap and makeup residue until the water runs clear. Repeat the rinsing process as needed until the sponge is completely clean.
Squeeze out excessive water: Once the beauty blender is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
Air dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Using baby soap is a gentle and safe option for cleaning your beauty blender. Baby soaps are formulated to be mild and non-irritating, making them suitable for cleaning sensitive skin and delicate items like makeup sponges. Regularly cleaning your beauty blender with baby soap helps to maintain its cleanliness, performance, and overall hygiene.

benefits of keeping beauty blender clean

Keeping your beauty blender clean offers several benefits:

Hygiene: Regularly cleaning your beauty blender helps to remove makeup residue, oils, and bacteria that can accumulate on the sponge. This promotes good hygiene and reduces the risk of transferring bacteria onto your skin, which can lead to breakouts or skin irritation.
Performance: A clean beauty blender performs better. When the sponge is free from product build-up, it can distribute makeup more evenly and smoothly onto the skin. This allows for a flawless, airbrushed finish.
Longevity: Properly cleaning your beauty blender helps to extend its lifespan. Regularly removing makeup residue and oils prevents the sponge from deteriorating or developing a funky smell over time. This ensures that your beauty blender remains effective and usable for a longer period.
Avoiding makeup mishaps: A dirty beauty blender can alter the color and texture of your makeup, leading to unexpected results. By keeping it clean, you can avoid makeup mishaps such as streaks, patches, or uneven application.
Skin health: Clean beauty blenders contribute to better skin health. Removing bacteria and build-up from the sponge reduces the chances of clogging pores, which can lead to acne breakouts or skin irritation. Clean tools provide a more hygienic makeup application, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Product efficiency: When your beauty blender is clean, it absorbs less product. Due to the fact that a dirty sponge does not needlessly absorb your makeup products, they last longer. You can maximize the efficiency of your cosmetics by using a clean beauty blender.

By maintaining a clean beauty blender, you can enjoy improved makeup application, better skin health, and prolong the life of your sponge, ensuring that it remains a reliable tool in your makeup routine.

Frequently asked questions about how to clean a beauty blender sponge

The 6 most common questions about cleaning your beauty blender

Can I clean my beauty blender in the washing machine? No, it is not recommended to clean your beauty blender in the washing machine, as it can damage both the blender and the machine. Stick to manual cleaning methods.
What is the best cleanser to use for cleaning a beauty blender? You can use a mild liquid soap, gentle shampoo, specialized makeup sponge cleanser, or even a gentle facial cleanser to clean your beauty blender. Choose a cleanser that is gentle, free from harsh chemicals, and suitable for your skin type.
Can I use dish soap to clean my beauty blender? Yes, you can use mild dish soap to clean your beauty blender. Just make sure it is free from harsh chemicals or fragrances that may irritate the skin.
How do I remove stains from my beauty blender? Stubborn stains on a beauty blender can be removed by using baking soda paste or soaking it in vinegar and water solution. Gently massage or soak the sponge, then rinse thoroughly.
Can I use natural ingredients to clean my beauty blender? Yes, you can use natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or even baby soap to clean your beauty blender. These ingredients can effectively remove residue and bacteria.
How do I dry my beauty blender after cleaning? After cleaning, gently squeeze out the excess water from the beauty blender. Place it on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Make sure it is completely dry before storing or using it again. Remember, proper and regular cleaning of your beauty blender is essential to maintain hygiene, performance, and the longevity of the sponge.

how often should I clean the beauty blender?

It is recommended to clean your beauty blender after each use to maintain its cleanliness and performance. By cleaning it regularly, you remove the build-up of makeup residue, oils, and bacteria that can accumulate on the sponge. This helps to prevent the transfer of bacteria onto your skin, reduces the risk of breakouts or skin irritation, and ensures a more hygienic makeup application.

In addition to cleaning after each use, it is also beneficial to deep clean your beauty blender at least once a week or every few uses, depending on how often you use it. Deep cleaning involves using a more thorough cleaning method, such as soaking the sponge in a mixture of warm water and mild cleanser or utilizing the microwave method.

By incorporating both regular cleaning and periodic deep cleaning into your beauty blender maintenance routine, you can keep the sponge in optimal condition and extend its lifespan.

Is it good to wash your beauty blender?

Yes, it is essential to wash your beauty blender regularly. Washing your beauty blender helps to remove makeup residue, oils, and bacteria that can accumulate on the sponge. Here are some reasons why it is good to wash your beauty blender:

- Hygiene: Washing your beauty blender ensures that it is free from bacteria and build-up, reducing the risk of transferring bacteria onto your skin. This promotes better hygiene and helps prevent breakouts or skin irritation.
- Performance: A clean beauty blender performs better. When the sponge is free from product residue, it can distribute makeup more evenly and smoothly onto the skin. This allows for a flawless and airbrushed finish.
- Longevity: Properly cleaning your beauty blender helps to extend its lifespan. Regularly removing makeup residue and oils prevents the sponge from deteriorating or developing a funky smell over time. This ensures that your beauty blender remains effective and usable for a longer period.
- Skin Health: Clean beauty blenders contribute to better skin health. By removing bacteria and build-up from the sponge, you reduce the chances of clogging pores, which can lead to acne breakouts or skin irritation. Clean tools provide a more hygienic makeup application, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Makeup Application: A clean beauty blender allows for better makeup application. When your tool is free from old makeup residue, it won’t interfere with the color or texture of your new makeup, ensuring that you achieve the desired look.

Regularly washing your beauty blender is essential for maintaining cleanliness, performance, and hygiene. It helps to prolong the life of the sponge and ensures that you’re applying makeup onto a clean surface, leading to better makeup application and healthier skin.

How do you disinfect an old beauty blender?

To disinfect an old beauty blender, you can follow these steps:

1. Completely wet the beauty blender: Start by wetting the beauty blender under running water. Ensure that the sponge is completely saturated.
2. Prepare a disinfecting solution: Fill a bowl or container with a mixture of warm water and disinfectant. You can use different options for disinfection, such as diluted bleach (1 tablespoon of bleach per 1 cup of water), isopropyl alcohol (70% concentration or higher), or specialized makeup brush and sponge disinfectant sprays available in the market.
3. Soak the beauty blender: Place the wet beauty blender into the disinfecting solution, ensuring that it is fully submerged. Let it soak for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the disinfectant to penetrate the sponge and kill any bacteria or germs.
4. Rinse thoroughly: After the soaking period, remove the beauty blender from the solution and rinse it thoroughly under running water. Make sure to remove any residue from the disinfectant.
5. Squeeze out excess water: Gently squeeze out the excess water from the beauty blender. Avoid twisting or wringing the sponge, as this can damage its shape.
6. Air dry: Place the beauty blender on a clean towel or allow it to air dry in an open, well-ventilated area. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing or using it again.

Disinfecting an old beauty blender helps to kill bacteria and germs that may have accumulated over time. This is especially important if you haven’t cleaned the sponge for an extended period. Regularly disinfecting your beauty blender is particularly beneficial for maintaining hygiene, especially when sharing the tool or if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.

The 5 most Popular and well-known beauty blenders on Amazon

Keep in mind that product availability, brands, and customer reviews may vary over time.

Original Beautyblender: The Original Beautyblender is a popular and widely recognized brand that revolutionized the makeup sponge industry. It features a unique shape and high-quality material designed for seamless blending and a natural finish.

for Original Beautyblender on Amazon

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge: Real Techniques is a well-known brand offering affordable makeup tools. Their Miracle Complexion Sponge is a versatile alternative to the Beautyblender, featuring multiple surfaces for different makeup application techniques.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge on Amazon

EcoTools Perfecting Blender Duo: EcoTools is a brand known for its eco-friendly and sustainable makeup tools. Their Perfecting Blender Duo includes two different-sized sponges designed to provide precise application and blend makeup seamlessly.

EcoTools Perfecting Blender Duo on Amazon

Juno & Co. Microfiber Velvet Sponge: Juno & Co. gained popularity with their Microfiber Velvet Sponge, featuring a unique microfiber material that claims to provide a flawless, airbrushed finish. It is known for its ability to absorb less product and blend foundation seamlessly.

Juno & Co. Microfiber Velvet Sponge on Amazon

Aesthetica Cosmetics Beauty Sponge Blender: Aesthetica Cosmetics offers a range of beauty sponges at an affordable price. Their Beauty Sponge Blender is designed to provide even coverage and flawless blending of liquid and cream products.

Aesthetica Cosmetics Beauty Sponge Blender on Amazon

When searching on Amazon or other online marketplaces, be sure to read customer reviews, consider the overall ratings, and compare prices to make an informed decision. Remember, individual experiences and preferences may vary, so it’s essential to consider multiple sources of information before purchasing a beauty blender.

Remember to keep your beauty blender clean!

It’s essential for maintaining hygiene, achieving optimal makeup application, and promoting healthy skin. Regularly cleaning your beauty blender helps remove makeup residue, oils, and bacteria that can accumulate on the sponge. It ensures a more even and flawless makeup application while reducing the risk of breakouts or skin irritation.

Whether you choose to use gentle cleansers, natural ingredients, or specialized products, the key is to clean your beauty blender after each use and deep clean it regularly.

By following proper cleaning techniques and allowing the sponge to dry thoroughly, you can extend the lifespan of your beauty blender and enjoy its benefits for a long time. Remember, a clean beauty blender is not only good for your makeup routine but also for the health of your skin.