How to Store Your Professional Makeup Brushes
Proper storage is essential to keep your professional makeup brushes in perfect condition. Storing them correctly not only helps maintain their quality but also extends their lifespan. In this blog, we’ll cover the best ways to store your makeup brushes, whether you’re at home or on the go, and offer tips for keeping them clean and in perfect shape.
Why proper makeup brush storage matters
Your makeup brushes play a huge role in the quality of your makeup application, affecting everything from blending to precision. Over time, dust, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate on the bristles, which can potentially cause acne and dermatitis. Correct storage can help avoid these issues, while also preventing bristles from getting damaged or misshaped.
What is the best way to store your professional makeup brushes?
The best way to store your makeup brushes is to store them upright in a brush holder or container. This is much better than storing them in a makeup bag with the rest of your makeup products, as this can be a feeding ground for bacteria. Even better, find a brush holder with a lid as this will keep your brushes free of dust and will keep them nicer for longer. You can always store your brushes in a separate case to keep them protected and clean.
Should makeup brushes be stored up or down?
All dry brushes should be stored with the bristles facing up to prevent the bristles bending, and then falling out. Storing makeup brushes in an upright position keeps them from getting damaged, and keeps them cleaner.
However, if your brushes have been freshly cleaned, they should be stored with the bristles facing down while drying. Storing them bristles-down allows any moisture to drain away from the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles), preventing water from seeping in and loosening the glue, which can lead to shedding and damage over time. Once completely dry, makeup brushes can be stored upright again to maintain their shape and longevity.
What is the best way to store double sided makeup brushes?
The best way to store double-sided makeup brushes is to keep them lying flat. Storing them upright is only going to damage one of the brush heads over time. Laying them flat avoids this issue and prevents bristle distortion on either side.
Opt for a silicone brush case like the Brushworks Silicone Makeup Brush Shield. This silicone case features a strong magnet closure to keep all your makeup brushes nice and secure. This is also the perfect size to keep in your handbag, or for nights out when you want to take brushes out with you but don’t want to get your bag dirty, or your brushes dirty!
How to clean your makeup brushes
- Rinse Bristles: Hold the makeup brush with bristles facing downward under lukewarm water to avoid water getting into the handle.
- Apply Cleanser: Swirl the bristles in a small amount of brush cleanser, baby shampoo, or gentle face cleanser if you don’t have either, lathering gently to remove makeup residue.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse again until the water runs clear, ensuring all cleanser is removed.
- Squeeze & Reshape: Gently squeeze out excess water with a clean towel and reshape the bristles.
- Dry Flat: Lay brushes flat on a towel with bristles over the edge of a counter to air dry completely.
Properly storing and cleaning your makeup brushes is essential for maintaining their quality and extending their lifespan. By following these storage tips—keeping brushes upright, protecting them from dust, and storing double-sided brushes flat—you can prevent damage, maintain brush shape, and keep them in perfect condition. Additionally, if you ever need to replace your current brushes, take a look at our makeup brushes from Brushworks & So Eco. Shop here!
