Bristle beard brushes have been around for centuries, and even though we have moved into a more modern age of grooming, they are still popular with those looking to care for a longer, fuller beard. But with regular use, boar bristle beard brushes can become a cesspool of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells – yuck. This can not only ruin the aesthetics of the brush, but it also causes the bristles to lose their shape; leading to an ineffective grooming session.
Fortunately, cleaning a boar bristle beard brush is a relatively simple process. Before you start, you need to ensure that the brush is completely dry and the bristles are firmly packed. Afterward, the cleaning process involves the following four steps:
Step 1: Remove the Hair
Using a comb, begin by removing the loose hair from the brush. When you’re finished, the bristles should be completely free of hair and grime. If you find any stubborn hairs, use a seam ripper to pluck them out.
Step 2: Clean the Brush with Soap
In a bowl of lukewarm water, mix a small amount of mild shampoo or shampoo bar soap. Then, use your finger to create a lather. Once the foam forms, dip the brush in the shampoo mixture, using a rotation action to get the soap between the bristles. Once the entire brush is covered, leave it in the mixture for up to 15 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse and Squeeze the Brush
After the allotted time has passed, rinse the brush with cold water until the water runs clear. Squeeze the bristles gently, to remove any dirt or residue, and pat the brush with a towel. Once the brush is free from water, use your fingers to brush the bristles in a single direction.
Step 4: Air-Dry the Brush
After the brush is clean and free of water, allow it to air-dry away from direct sunlight. This will ensure that the bristles return to their original state. Once the brush is completely dry, comb it and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
In general, it’s important to clean your brush at least once a month. Doing so will help the bristles to last longer and the brush will work better when grooming. Additionally, regular cleaning reduces the buildup of dirt, oil, and bacteria on your brush.
Additional Tips
To guarantee a thorough clean, it’s recommended that you use a soft bristled toothbrush to remove any stubborn dirt and grease from the handle, prior to cleaning.
Your cleaning method will vary depending on the brush‘s material – for instance, a wooden brush should not be submerged in the cleaning mixture, as the water could damage the wood.
To add more protection to the bristles, you can apply a small amount of conditioner or baking soda after cleaning the brush. This will keep the bristles soft and flexible, so they can reach deeper into your beard.
Detergent Alternatives
If you’re looking for detergent alternatives, you can use a vinegar and warm water solution or diluted lemon juice. Both will help to reduce bacteria and remove dirt and grime from the brush. However, avoid dish-washing detergents as they are much too harsh and could damage the bristles.
If you have multiple brushes, an effective way to store them is to tie them together using rubber bands. This will keep them in better condition and make them easier to find.
Overnight Cleaning
For deeper cleaning, you can try the soapy overnight cleaning method. Soak the brush in a mixture of warm water and mild shampoo for 8 to 12 hours, before rinsing with cold water and air-drying.
Sanitizing
While cleaning is important, sanitizing is equally crucial. Boar bristle beard brushes can carry a wide range of bacteria, which is why they should be regularly sanitized using a combination of detergent and bleach. By sanitizing your brush, you will make sure that it remains a safe and clean environment for your skin and hair.
Conclusion
All in all, cleaning a boar bristle beard brush is an important part of personal grooming. It ensures that the bristles remain in tip-top shape and free from dirt, grime, and bacteria. Furthermore, by following the cleaning process outlined above, you’ll be sure to keep your brush in perfect condition.
