Let’s be honest: when was the last time you actually cleaned your beauty blender? Many of us will admit that we feel guilty for procrastinating too long. But in addition to being unhygienic with dirty sponges, dirty sponges are also a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can lead to breakouts, irritation, rashes, and skin sensitivity.
But how do you clean a makeup sponge? Next, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about cleaning makeup sponges.
How to Clean a Makeup Sponge?
Whether you use liquid dish soap, soap, mild antibacterial shampoo, cleanser, or specialty makeup cleanser to wash the sponge, the key is to make it as clean as possible.
- First, moisten the sponge so that it saturates and swells to its maximum capacity. Then, add the cleaner of your choice. If you’re using a solid soap bar, rub all sides of the sponge with it and squeeze several times to soak the soap into it. Using a liquid cleanser, pour it directly onto a damp sponge, then press and massage the sponge with the palm of your hand to create a lather. Textured pads such as cleaning pads are another option for creating friction that helps remove makeup without damaging the sponge.
- Create enough foam to cover the entire sponge. Focus on areas where spots and stains are difficult to remove. After the sponge cleans, rinse with warm water while gently squeezing to remove makeup, oil, and dirt. When the water rinses off, the sponge is clean. Repeat this process for the dirty side turning to more sponges.
- Now, squeeze out as much excess water as possible, gently blot the sponge with a clean towel, and let it dry. While it may be tempting to use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process, don’t do it. The heat can melt the sponge or cause it to deform its shape. Instead, place the sponge on a clean towel or bamboo drying rack to avoid mold growth. Be sure to allow them to air dry thoroughly (usually overnight) in a well-ventilated area.
- Once the sponge is clean and completely dry, you can place it in a UV disinfection box or device for an additional dose of disinfection.
Tip: To get rid of stubborn makeup, olive oil is recommended. After normal cleaning of the sponge, wash it with unscented ordinary olive oil, which will help break down the makeup.
How Often Should You Wash Your Makeup Sponge?
Ideally, you should wash your makeup sponge after each use, but this is not realistic for most people. In fact, wash at least once a week and rinse the sponge with warm water after each use until the water is clear.
From a cleanliness point of view, it is very necessary to clean the makeup sponge regularly. Over time, bacteria can build up in your sponges and brushes, and you want to prevent this from happening. In addition, applying makeup with a dirty sponge can transfer the bacteria inside the sponge to the skin, causing potential breakouts, skin sensitivities, or rashes.
When Should You Replace Your Makeup Sponge?
It’s best to discard makeup sponges every two to three months, especially if you use them daily. If you don’t clean your sponge regularly, change it every three to four weeks.
Since it can be difficult to remember how old a sponge is, certain clues indicate that it’s time to replace the sponge. For example, if your sponge smells rotten or moldy, throw it away immediately. If it feels stiff, can’t be rinsed off, or is full of cracks and tears, you should throw it away as well.
Conclusion
Washing your makeup sponge should be done daily, but once a week is a safe second option. All you need is your favorite cleanser, such as liquid dish soap, soap, mild antibacterial shampoo, cleanser, or specialty makeup cleanser, to give your makeup sponge a new look. Ultimately, keeping the sponge clean will ensure that your makeup applies seamlessly and minimizes the chances of skin bursts, irritation, rashes, and sensitivities.
