The Importance of Cleaning your Hair Brushes

It's probably time to clean your hairbrushes, and here's how.

As professional hairdressers, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic salon environment. However, there is often one overlooked aspect of salon hygiene that we may put off for longer than expected... the regular cleaning of our hairbrushes.

The truth is, our hairbrushes tend to gather the most dirt, dust, and debris. Being the most frequently used piece of salon equipment, cleaning them on the regular is crucial for both the health of your clients and the longevity of your tools. Let's take a deep dive into the Alfa Italia step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean your hairbrushes, and ensure you on how to maintain a high standard of cleanliness in your salon, and to why it is such an important step in your hair care routine.

Why is it important?

1. Hygiene and client safety

When we talk about cleaning our hairbrushes, we don't just mean pulling out loose hair and calling it a day, we mean a proper deep clean. Hair brushes accumulate not only hair but also oils, styling products, and scalp build-up. By deeply cleaning your brushes this will help prevent the spread of infections and scalp issues between your clients, showcasing your commitment to their safety and well-being.

2. Enhanced styling results 

A clean hair brush ensures that styling products are applied evenly, leading to better results. Dirty brushes can transfer old products into freshly washed hair, affecting the desired outcome of a hairstyle you're wanting to recreate. Maintaining the cleanliness of your brushes contributes to the overall professional image of your salon and the quality of your services.

3. Prolonged tool longevity 

Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of residue on the bristles, which can cause your brush to become less effective over time. Clean brushes are less likely to harbour rust or damage, ensuring your tools last longer and provide you with consistent results.

How to *really* clean your hair brushes:

1. Remove hair 

Use a spare comb or brush to remove any hair that may be entangled in the bristles. Doing this will make the cleaning process more effective. 

2. Preparing a cleaning solution 

Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild shampoo or disinfectant solution. We recommend the [wa]shed range from Shed. Swirl the water to create a soapy mixture. 

3. Soak the brush

Submerge the brush in the soapy water, making sure the bristles are fully covered. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen any product build-up.

4. Scrub with a toothbrush

Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub between the bristles, removing any remaining residue. Pay attention to the base of the bristles and the cushion.

5. Rinse thoroughly 

Rinse the brush under the running water to wash all soap and debris away. Hold the brush with the bristles facing down to prevent any water from getting into the cushion.

6. Dry properly

Shake off the excess water and pat the brush with a clean towel. Allow it to air dry completely before using it again. Avoid using a hairdryer, as the heat can damage the bristles.

In the world of professional hairdressing, cleanliness is not just a virtue - it's a necessity. Regularly cleaning your hairbrushes not only ensures a safer and more hygienic environment for your clients but also contributes to the overall longevity and success of your salon. By following these simple steps, you can maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and provide exceptional services that will keep your clients coming back for more!