Introduction
The Beauty Blender helps you apply makeup like a pro-until it starts looking dirty, smelly, or worse: mouldy. Many people are unsure about how to clean a beauty blender properly or how long it lasts. The good news? Taking care of it is easy and only takes a few minutes. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to wash a beauty blender, how to dry it, and how to prevent mould, so it lasts longer and keeps your skin safe.
What to Look for in a Good Beauty Blender
Before we delve into cleaning tips, let’s discuss what makes a beauty blender worth using.
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Soft Material: It should feel smooth on your skin and bounce back when squeezed.
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Good Shape: A teardrop or multi-angle sponge helps reach every corner of your face.
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Durability: With good care, it should last 3 to 6 months.
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Absorbency: It should hold water without soaking up too much makeup.
A high-quality beauty blender makes your makeup blend better, saves product, and is easier to clean.
How to Clean a Beauty Blender (Step-by-Step)
Method 1: Classic Soap & Squeeze (Best for Regular Cleaning)
This is the most common method used by beauty lovers and pros.
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Step 1: Wet the beauty blender with warm water.
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Step 2: Apply a few drops of baby shampoo or makeup sponge cleanser.
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Step 3: Gently rub the sponge using your fingers or on a textured surface.
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Step 4: Rinse and squeeze until the water runs clear
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Step 5: Repeat if needed.
This method is gentle and removes makeup stains, oil, and bacteria.
Method 2: The 60-Second Microwave Deep Clean
This method was popularised by CleanMySpace and Reddit users.
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Step 1: Mix water and soap in a microwave-safe cup.
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Step 2: Soak your blender thoroughly in the solution.
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Step 3: Microwave for 60 seconds.
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Step 4: Let it cool before squeezing out dirty water.
It kills bacteria and gives a deep clean. Just don’t overheat or the sponge may tear.
Method 3: Solid Cleanser Method (Best for Heavy Stains)
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Rub the sponge on a solid cleanser or bar soap.
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Gently massage it to lift stubborn makeup buildup.
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Rinse and squeeze well.
This works well for stained or long-unwashed beauty blenders.
How Often Should You Wash Your Beauty Blender (Without Damaging It)?
Ideally, you should clean your beauty blender after every 2–3 uses. If you use it daily, wash it every day. Dirty sponges can cause pimples, blackheads, and skin irritation.
How Long Does a Beauty Blender Last? (And When to Replace Yours)
With regular cleaning and proper drying, a beauty blender lasts about 3 months. Some high-quality sponges may last up to 6 months. Replace it earlier if it:
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Smells bad
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Has rips or cracks
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Doesn’t bounce back
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Feels hard or stiff
How to Dry Your Beauty Blender (and Prevent Mould)
Drying is just as important as washing.
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Squeeze it gently with a towel.
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Leave it in the open air (like on a clean stand or windowsill).
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Never store it wet in a makeup bag or drawer.
Allowing it to dry thoroughly keeps it fresh and prevents mould.
Can You Clean a Beauty Blender in the Washing Machine? (Why You Shouldn't)
It’s not a good idea. The washing machine can damage the sponge or change its shape. Stick to hand washing or the microwave method.
Quick Comparison Table: Cleaning Methods
|
Method |
Time Needed |
Deep Clean |
Easy to Do |
Risk of Damage |
|
Soap & Squeeze |
3–5 min |
Medium |
Yes |
Very Low |
|
Microwave Clean |
1 min |
High |
Yes |
Medium |
|
Solid Cleanser Rub |
5–7 min |
High |
Yes |
Low |
Beauty Blender Care FAQs (Cleaning, Mould, and More)
How to clean beauty blenders at home?
Use warm water and gentle soap or cleanser. Rub, rinse, and repeat until water runs clear. Air dry after cleaning.
How often should you clean a beauty blender?
Clean it every 2–3 uses. If used daily, wash it daily to avoid germs and breakouts.
How to Prevent Mould on a Beauty Blender?
Always dry your sponge thoroughly in a well-ventilated area. Never store it in closed, wet spaces.
Can I wash my beauty blender in the microwave?
Yes, but carefully. Microwave it in soapy water for 60 seconds. Let it cool before squeezing.
How long do beauty blenders last?
They last around 3 months with regular cleaning. Replace earlier if it tears, smells, or loses shape.
Final Verdict: Clean It Right, Use It Longer, Look Flawless
A beauty blender is a must-have for flawless makeup—but only if it's clean and safe. Dirty or mouldy sponges can damage your skin and ruin your makeup. Thankfully, with a few easy steps, you now know how to wash, dry, and care for your beauty blender the right way. Whether you use it daily or weekly, these tips will help it last longer and work better.
Ready to give your sponge the care it deserves? Try one of the methods above today and feel the difference in your makeup game!
