Shaving Brush Maintenance

Preserve your shaving brush and extend its lifeline with a proper maintenance routine.

Consistency is key when it comes to maintenance. Along with rinsing your shaving brush after each use and allowing it to air dry, your brush will need a deep clean every few weeks.

Gentle Cleansing

Natural and synthetic bristles can be treated in the same way you would wash human hair. Gentle hair shampoo and conditioner, or other gentle soap, are suitable for use on shaving brush bristles. This should be completed every few weeks. 

TIPS

• Avoid extremely hot temperatures. Bristles should be cleaned with warm water.
• Use a dap of hair shampoo to lather the bristles (brush down to the handle and out to the tips).
• Rinse lather with warm water (reminder hot water will damage bristles)
• Squeeze bristles to gently to remove the excess moisture.
• Follow the above steps using conditioner.
• Gentle shake and squeeze the excess water out of the brush.
• Hang to dry/air dry.

NOTE: Synthetic fibers will dry faster than natural bristles. 

Deep Cleanse with Vinegar or Borax

To help strip away the substances that may be ruining your badger brush’s performance, a brush cleaning with either vinegar or borax will work. A diluted solution of vinegar or borax is mixed in a non-reactive cup or glass, and the just-shampooed brush is dipped in the solution. After a brief soak, the solution is thoroughly rinsed out and the brush is dried following the usual steps. This can be completed every 1-2 months. 

TIPS:

• The vinegar to water ratio should be about 20% vinegar to 80% water.
• If borax is used, try a tablespoon in a cup of water.
• Drop the brush in the vinegar or borax solution for a few minutes, swirling several times.
• A brush can also be treated with a paste of borax and water, worked in well and allowed to set for about an hour, followed by a thorough rinse
• Hang to dry/air dry. 

Handle Maintenance

If your shaving brush has a delicate handle, including those made from wood or genuine horn, you it should be polished every month or so. Manufacturers offer guidance for preserving these delicate handles so it’s best to reach out to them directly for proper care instructions. 

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