Your hairbrush collects more than just hair. Over time, it builds up with scalp oils, product residue, dust, and environmental debris.

And every time you brush freshly washed hair, some of that buildup can go right back onto your hair and scalp.A dirty brush can contribute to faster oiliness, dull or weighed-down hair, uneven product distribution, and scalp irritation.

Clean brush. Cleaner hair. Better results.

How to Clean Your Hairbrush

You don’t need anything fancy—just a few minutes and some basic supplies.

1. Remove trapped hair
Use your fingers, a comb, or a brush-cleaning tool to remove hair caught between the bristles. Pay extra attention to the base, where buildup tends to collect.

2. Wash the brush
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a small amount of shampoo or gentle soap.For plastic or synthetic brushes, you can submerge the brush. For wooden brushes, keep the handle and base out of the water and wash only the bristles.Let the bristles sit in the water for about 5–10 minutes.

3. Gently scrub
Use an old toothbrush or small cleaning brush to work between the bristles and around the base, loosening oils and product residue.

4. Rinse thoroughly
Rinse with clean water until all soap and residue are removed.

5. Let it dry completely
Shake off excess water and place the brush bristle-side down on a clean towel. Allow it to air dry completely before using it again.

How Often Should You Clean It?

As a general guide: Once a week — ideal for most peopleEvery two weeks — if you use very little styling product Every 3–5 days — if you regularly use dry shampoo, hairspray, styling products, or tend to have an oily scalpIf you're styling your hair every day, make cleaning your brush part of your weekly routine.

Stylist Index TipThe more often you clean your brush, the quicker and easier it is. Don’t wait until you can see the buildup.

When Is It Time for a New Brush?Cleaning can only do so much.If buildup no longer comes off, or the bristles have become bent, melted, damaged, or are starting to fall out, it may be time for a replacement.

A quality brush—and the right brush for your hair type—can be just as important to your routine as the products you use.

Think of your brush as part of your haircare system, not simply a styling tool.

The Bottom Line: A clean brush supports cleaner hair, better styling results, and a healthier-feeling scalp. It’s a small habit that can make a noticeable difference.Not sure which brush is right for your hair?

The Stylist Index is here to help you find the right tools for your routine.