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Beauty/Makeup/Tools & Brushes

Top 10 Makeup Brush Cleaners

How To Make Your Makeup Brushes Last Twice As Long

How To Make Your Makeup Brushes Last Twice As Long

When it comes to our holy-grail beauty products, makeup brushes easily top the list. From blending and buffing to smoothing and stippling, the trusty tools can single-handedly make or break our application. This is why it's crucial to keep them clean—and we're not just talking about giving them a quick rinse with your go-to dish soap. Over time, brushes and sponges become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, oil, and buildup—all of which can cause some not-so-desirable results like clogged pores and breakouts—so investing in a top-notch brush cleaner is key. To help you get your tools into tip-top shape, we've rounded up an algorithm-backed list of the best makeup brush cleaners in the biz. From a $6 silicone mat to a luxurious spray the pros love, keep scrolling to shop the Top 10 and get those brushes looking good again. Opening image: @ecotools

Did you like our 10 Best Makeup Brush Cleaners? Check out our 10 Best Bronzers for more top-ranked finds!

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April 15, 2020

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Ranphykx Silicon Makeup Brush Cleaning Mat
Rank & Style Approved

amazon.com

Ranphykx Silicon Makeup Brush Cleaning Mat

WHAT IT DOES: This may just be the best $7 you ever spend. The apple shape fits most sinks, the suction cups keep it in place while you clean, and it even comes with seven different textures to effectively clean every type of brush in your beauty bag.

USERS SAID: "I've always cleaned my brushes with baby soap in the palm of my hand and thought that they were clean. BUT I'VE NEVER BEEN MORE WRONG IN MY LIFE. I cleaned two very similar brushes, both of which were used with similar products, and this little dude got so much more makeup out of them than I ever could. Definitely buy this thing!"


e.l.f. Daily Brush Cleaner

BEST FOR: Getting glam on the go? Toss this TSA-approved brush cleaner in your tote or carry-on and you'll never have to deal with dirty brushes on vacay again.

FUN FACT: This formula is gentle enough for everyday use, so you can spritz it on your brushes after each makeup application if you're a clean freak.


NandaBeauty Brush Cleaning Mat

LOVED FOR: Most makeup cleaning mats take up the entire sink, but this one fits in the palm of your hand. Don't let that fool you, though—it will still get all the grime and goop out of every last brush in your collection.

USERS SAID: "I thought I was getting my brushes clean before, but now I know I was so wrong. I put a little bit of soap on it and worked the brush over it until the water ran clear. I cannot believe how much stuff came out of my brushes and how clean they became! I thought they were stained, but actually, I just wasn't getting them all that clean before."


IT Brushes For Ulta Brush Bath Purifying Brush Cleaner

WHAT IT DOES: Brush cleaners don't get much more luxurious than this. Packed with lemon and lavender oils, the gentle, non-alcoholic formula instantly dissolves any makeup and smells great too.

LOVED FOR: This spray dries ultra-fast, so your brushes will be ready to use again in less than two minutes.


Parian Spirit Brush Cleaner

WHY YOU NEED IT: There's a reason this brush cleaner is constantly recommended by the pros. Not only is it free of harsh chemicals and packed with a lovely citrus scent, but it can also get any kind of makeup off your brush in seconds—even oil-based formulas and adhesives.

AS SEEN ON: Chanel makeup artist Rachel Goodwin (AKA the woman behind Emma Stone's most flawless looks) says this brush cleaner is like nothing else out there.


Beautyblender blendercleanser Solid Makeup Sponge Cleanser

BEST FOR: If you have a beautyblender, meet your new BFF. Crafted specifically for the egg-shaped sponge, the lavender-scented solid cleanser and included scrub pad will ensure all your tools are left extra clean.

FROM THE EXPERTS: When we say extra clean, we mean it. This baby will provide continuous protection from 99.7% of harmful germs 24 hours after washing, even if stains are left behind.


Sephora Collection Color Switch By Vera Mona Brush Cleaner

WHAT IT DOES: Made with a special material that quickly and easily removes pigment, this genius brush cleaner allows you to seamlessly switch shades without ever getting your brush wet. We don't know about you, but we're obsessed.

USERS SAID: “This is perfect for when you're working on your eyeshadow with your favorite brush but you're using multiple colors. Instead of needing multiple back-ups of your favorite brush, you can use the color switch and go between colors easily.”


EcoTools Makeup Brush Cleansing Shampoo

BEST FOR: Sensitive skin, meet your match. Dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and formulated with plant-derived ingredients, this formula is safe, gentle, and non-irritating.

LOVED FOR: Thanks to the conditioning formula, this will also leave your brushes with an ultra-soft feel and super lovely scent.


Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner

WHY YOU NEED IT: Not only is this cult-favorite brush cleaner quick-drying, but it's also 99.99% antimicrobial disinfectant and it can be used on both natural and synthetic fibers. 

USERS SAID: "This cleaner is amazing. In one dip, it took out ALL the makeup in my brushes (even ones I hadn't used or cleaned in over a year). My brushes literally look brand new!"


Beautyblender Liquid Blendercleanser

LOVED FOR: Unlike baby shampoo, Dawn, or any other soap you may be tempted to use, this top-rated cleanser will tackle every last bit of dirt, oil, and buildup without making your brushes shed. Plus, it smells great.

HELPFUL TIP: To remove super stubborn stains, pour a small amount of blendercleanser into a bowl with water, lather and soak your beautyblender for a few hours or overnight.

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