How to Clean a Beauty Blender or Makeup Sponge

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Click here to get more.

• Routinely cleaning your Beautyblender or makeup sponge will help you get more use out of the applicator and also prevent breakouts.
• There are a few different ways to clean a makeup sponge. The most popular methods include soaking it in warm water with dish soap and using brush shampoo. 
• I tested out four different ways to clean a makeup sponge and shared my thoughts on the effectiveness of each one. Dish soap worked surprisingly well. 
• See also: the best beauty blenders and makeup sponges
• Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

Sign up to get the inside scoop on today&#;s biggest stories in markets, tech, and business &#; delivered daily. Read preview

Thanks for signing up! Go to newsletter preferences

Thanks for signing up!

Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go.

address

Link to bodesi'

By clicking &#;Sign Up&#;, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking "unsubscribe" at the bottom of the .

Advertisement

I have a confession to make: Before writing this, I couldn't remember the last time I cleaned a makeup sponge. Once it starts looking used or there are little tears in the foam, I usually just toss it. I'm aware this is neither eco-friendly nor hygienically sound, which is why I've made a commitment to change my ways.

Laziness is partially to blame (I struggle to go through my own skincare regimen these days, and you expect me to give my sponge a bath?), and the fact that I haven't really known how to clean a makeup sponge has also been a contributing factor. 

If you, like me, have neglected to clean your makeup sponge on a regular basis, here's some incentive for you: Sponges are porous, meaning they soak up and retain liquids. Ergo, even after a single use, makeup sponges hold on to foundation, concealer, and oils, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and microorganisms, explains Dr. Stacy Chimento, a board-certified dermatologist at Riverchase Dermatology in Miami.

Advertisement

Why you should clean your Beautyblender or makeup sponges, according to a dermatologist

"Dirty makeup [applicators] clog pores and may also promote the development of acne and skin infections," Dr. Chimento tells Insider. "In severe cases, bacteria can spread to open wounds you have from acne, waxing, or other hair removal forms, which are entry points for irritants." 

She also adds that when you're not routinely cleaning your makeup sponges, they don't perform the way they're supposed to because there is so much product buildup. 

Advertisement

How often should you clean your makeup sponges?

If you wear makeup every day and a Beautyblender is your go-to applicator, Dr. Chimento suggests giving it a wash at least once or twice a week, if not after every use (especially if you're applying a significant amount of makeup). This is because makeup sponges "typically breed the most bacteria out of any applicator because of their ability to hold onto moisture," she says. 

Washing your makeup sponge at least once or twice a week might sound like a big ask, but it's really not. In fact, there are a few different ways to clean a Beautyblender that take minimal effort or time away from your day. I've tested them all to find out which ones work best, and you'll find my thoughts on each technique below. 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Custom Logo Makeup Sponge.