This makeup brush cleaning solution DIY recipe will remove bacteria and keep makeup brushes in great shape without causing them damage.
If you’re tired of spending money on store-bought cleaners or using products filled with harsh chemicals, this makeup brush cleaning solution DIY is exactly what you need. Keeping your makeup brushes clean is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and extending the life of your brushes.
With this simple, non-toxic, and budget-friendly solution, you can achieve professional results at home.

DIY Makeup Brush Cleaning Solution Recipe
This recipe uses simple household ingredients that are gentle on your brushes and effective at removing makeup residue, oils, and bacteria.
Makeup Brush Cleaning Solution DIY Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil as an alternative)
- 4 tablespoons non-toxic dish soap (choose one free of harsh chemicals, like Dawn Free & Clear)
- 1 cup lukewarm water
How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes at Home
Cleaning your makeup brushes is not just about hygiene. It also prevents bacteria buildup, reduces skin breakouts, and ensures your makeup applies smoothly.
Experts recommend cleaning your brushes at least once a week to avoid clogged pores and keep your brushes in top condition.

Step 1: Mix Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dish soap, and lukewarm water. Stir until fully blended.
Step 2: Dip Brushes:
Gently dip your makeup brush bristles into the solution.

Step 3: Clean Brushes:
Use a small strainer or your palm to swirl the brush in circular motions. This will help dislodge makeup and debris from the bristles.

Step 4: Rinse:
Rinse the brush under lukewarm water until it runs clear. Be careful not to wet the brush handle, as this can loosen the glue holding the bristles.
Step 5: Repeat If Necessary:
For stubborn buildup, repeat steps 2-4.

Step 6: Dry:
Lay your brushes flat on a clean towel to air dry. Ensure the bristles hang off the edge to maintain their shape.
Expert Tips for Deep Cleaning Makeup Brushes
- Avoid Hot Water: High temperatures can damage bristles and weaken the glue.
- Use a Brush Cleaning Mat: Silicone mats with textured surfaces help clean brushes more thoroughly.
- Sanitize Weekly: Spray your brushes with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol to kill germs.
- Don’t Submerge Handles: Keep water away from the handle to prevent loosening of the glue.

Alternatives to Olive Oil for Makeup Brush Cleaning
If you’re out of olive oil, try:
- Coconut oil: Conditions and cleans bristles.
- Jojoba oil: A lightweight option that is effective and nourishing.
Benefits of DIY Makeup Brush Cleaning Solutions
- Cost-Effective: No need to buy expensive cleaners.
- Non-Toxic: Safe for your skin and brushes.
- Customizable: Adjust the recipe to suit your needs.
Avoid These When Cleaning Makeup Brushes
- Harsh Chemicals: Can dry out bristles and damage glue.
- Alcohol-Based Products: Over time, these can make bristles brittle.
- Hot Water: Weakens glue and misshapes bristles.
FAQs About DIY Makeup Brush Cleaning
What is the best homemade makeup brush cleaner?
The best homemade makeup brush cleaner combines olive oil and dish soap. Olive oil conditions the bristles to keep them soft, while dish soap removes bacteria and residue effectively. This recipe is affordable, simple, and non-toxic.
Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean my makeup brushes?
Yes, but use caution. Mix 1/2 cup warm water, 1/4 cup white vinegar, and 2 teaspoons baking soda. Soak the brush bristles for 15-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant but may not condition the bristles as well as olive oil.
Can I use Dawn dish soap to wash my makeup brushes?
Yes, Dawn Free & Clear dish soap is an excellent choice for cleaning makeup brushes. It breaks down oils and makeup residue without being harsh on the bristles.
What’s the best way to clean your makeup brushes and sponges?
The best method is to use a DIY solution with dish soap and olive oil. For sponges, gently squeeze them while cleaning and rinse thoroughly to remove all residue.
What should you not clean makeup brushes with?
Avoid cleansers with high alcohol content or harsh solvents. These can loosen the glue holding the bristles and shorten the lifespan of your brushes.
By following this guide, you can keep your brushes clean, soft, and bacteria-free with ease. Try this makeup brush cleaning solution DIY today and see the difference in your makeup application and skin health!
More Cleaning Tips
- DIY Cleaning Products Guide with Recipes
- Spring Cleaning Checklist & Free Printable
- Does Baking Soda Clean Carpet? Find Out How!
- Cleaning Hacks for the Whole House
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Makeup Brush Cleaner DIY
This makeup brush cleaning solution DIY recipe will remove bacteria and keep makeup brushes in great shape without causing them damage.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons non-toxic dish soap
- 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dish soap, and lukewarm water. Stir until fully blended. Gently dip your makeup brush bristles into the solution. Use a small strainer or your palm to swirl the brush in circular motions. This will help dislodge makeup and debris from the bristles. Rinse the brush under lukewarm water until it runs clear. Be careful not to wet the brush handle, as this can loosen the glue holding the bristles. For stubborn buildup, repeat steps 2-4. Lay your brushes flat on a clean towel to air dry. Ensure the bristles hang off the edge to maintain their shape.
Notes
Alternatives to Olive Oil for Makeup Brush Cleaning
If you’re out of olive oil, try:
- Coconut oil: Conditions and cleans bristles.
- Jojoba oil: A lightweight option that is effective and nourishing.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nutrition Information
Yield
1Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 239Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 23gCholesterol 0mgSodium 10mgCarbohydrates 0gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 0g
The nutrition in recipes is calculate by AI, mistakes happen. It is highly recommended to check carb counts to make sure these recipes fit into your diet. Also, if you are following a specific diet or have allergies to certain foods, be sure to do your research on products before considering it safe to consume.
About Thirty Something Super Mom

My journey started after a Crohn's disease diagnosis, inspiring a commitment to well-being. This site shares my distinctive approach to healthy living with my collection of nutritious recipes that boast authentic flavors, mimicking the indulgence of traditional dishes. I love sharing guilt free recipes for low carb, keto, gluten-free, paleo, and the specific carbohydrate diet. I also share tips on natural living, including homemade cleaners and cleaning hacks. I also share my experience as a veterinary technician and pet groomer, to integrate pet health tips, homemade dog food recipes, and grooming insights to ensure your pets thrive.
Robert A
Friday 4th of April 2025
This is so cool so I sent it to my friend Devon!
Yibeltal
Monday 24th of March 2025
I like your products
Alexa
Monday 28th of February 2022
Worked like a charm- thank you!
Melissa
Thursday 3rd of March 2022
Awesome. So happy to hear it. Thanks for taking the time to comment and let me know!
Keira Ball
Monday 9th of August 2021
Excellent post. Love your ideas and tips.
Melissa
Wednesday 11th of August 2021
Thank you! I am glad you enjoyed it.
friv
Saturday 14th of March 2020
these tips are quite useful, my brushes are always be mold but after I apply these steps, it's always clean as new