How to clean your makeup sponge

And restore its pretty pink complexion.

 

We’ve all been there…bouncing your favourite makeup sponge happily across your cheekbones, when suddenly, a paranoid thought pops into your head:

‘How dirty is this thing I’m currently putting on my face?’

The honest (somewhat sickening) truth is – probably much worse than you expect.

Here at Dose of Lashes, there’s not much we don’t love about our Baddie Blenders – except, maybe, the fact they do get very dirty, very quickly. And the reality is, if you want to avoid a breakout, you should probably be cleaning yours way more than you are currently.

So do yourself a favour. Keep reading and give yours a good scrub – pronto.

 

How often should you clean your makeup sponge?

In a perfect world? After every single use.

But if you don’t have time to offer that level of TLC, you should aim to clean your makeup blenders at least once a week. Perhaps every Sunday evening, so you can start the week afresh.

It may sound a little OTT, but due to the absorbency of the foam – and the fact that they’re pretty much always wet – beauty sponges are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. And with daily use, it’s easy for dead skin cells, dirt, oils and general grub and grime to accumulate. Nasty.

Not only does the build-up look pretty gross, and make the sponge harder to use, it can lead to breakouts and irritation. So why take the risk? Don’t let it sit and fester. Just give it a little wash and ensure both you and your sponge are squeaky clean and blemish free.

 

 

3 steps to a squeaky clean makeup blender sponge

No need for it to become a dreaded daily chore. Washing your makeup sponges shouldn’t be too time-consuming. It takes 5 minutes, max.

 

Step 1: Wet your sponge

Start by squeezing the sponge under running water until it’s fully saturated.

 

Step 2: Add a dash of soap

Various cleansers are available to buy online. But honestly, a mild soap works just as well.

Simply apply a small amount directly onto the sponge, then begin massaging it gently – pressing and swirling it into the palm of your hand, adding water to build up a lather.

The key to cleaning a makeup blender sponge effectively is to use enough friction to reach the centre and get rid of all the gunk, but not so much that you damage it (they’re delicate little souls, after all). Which is why it can sometimes help to invest in a textured silicone pad or mitt.

These provide the perfect gentle, yet abrasive surface required to deep clean without tearing. Just apply your cleanser or soap directly to the mitt. Then rub your sponge back and forth along the silicone nibs until there are no stains visible – taking care not to pull or wring the foam.

 

Step 3: Rinse

Once you’re happy the grub is gone, rinse your beauty sponge under clean water to remove all soap suds. Then leave it to dry in a clear well-ventilated area, ready for your next application.

 

 

Too lazy to work up a lather?

If you don’t have the time for scrubbing your sponges (or just cba), there’s always the ‘microwave method.’ An almost-effortless way to zap the bacteria in 60 seconds.

We agree, microwaving your Baddie Blender does sound like a recipe for disaster. And if you just put your dirty sponge in the ding machine and press start, you will end up with a pink melted mess.

However, do it correctly and safely, and it’s one of the quickest and easiest ways to get the job done. In fact, it’s like a supercharged version of putting it in your washing machine – killing microorganisms, banishing the bacteria and removing any stains.

Start by creating a solution of soap and water in a microwave-safe cup. Give the sponge a few squeezes to ensure it’s wet, then fully submerge it in the water. Pop the cup in the microwave for a minute. Then once the water cools, take out the sponge, rinse it with water and leave it to dry.

A simple, speedy technique that will leave your sponge looking as good as new.

 

 

Time for a replacement?

Cleaning your makeup sponges is important essential to keep bacteria levels in check, and maintain their texture, appearance and effectiveness for as long as possible. But it isn’t a miracle worker.

Even if you scrub them daily and look after them like a  pro-MUA – to guarantee the best results – you should still aim to replace your Baddie Blenders (at least) every 1-3 months. And thanks to our affordable prices, restocking doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavour.

Our Baddie Blender Bundle is available for just £10. £10 to ditch those well-loved sponges and avoid unexpected breakouts and blotchy complexions?

Sounds like £10 well spent to us.

And remember, we’re always here for you. Whether you’d like extra advice on how to clean your makeup sponges and keep them spick and span or want our opinion on the best replacement for your bacteria-riddled bestie, fill out our online contact form and we’ll get back to you ASAP.