How to Store Makeup Brushes So They Stay Cleaner
You washed your makeup brushes, rinsed away the foundation and congratulated yourself on finally doing it. Before putting them straight back into the same old makeup bag, there is one more step worth getting right: where—and how—you store them.
- Let washed brushes dry completely before putting them into a bag, drawer or closed container.
- Keep clean brushes somewhere dry and reasonably clean rather than beside a steamy shower or splashing sink.
- Wash the brushes regularly—and remember to clean the holder or makeup bag too.
Here is the question I would ask if we were sorting through your makeup drawer together:
Are those brushes actually dry?
Because the prettiest acrylic organiser in the world will not help much if damp brushes go straight into it.
Used cosmetic brushes collect makeup residue, oils and microorganisms. A 2025 study examining 57 cosmetic brushes found a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus, Micrococcus and Pseudomonas species. That does not mean every used brush will cause a skin problem, but it is a good reason to give brush hygiene a little more attention.
1. Wash Them Regularly
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends cleaning makeup brushes every seven to 10 days.
For most personal brushes, you do not need an elaborate cleaning machine. Lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser or brush shampoo will do the job.
Try to rinse mainly the bristles rather than soaking the entire brush, particularly where the bristles meet the handle.
2. Let Them Dry Before Storing Them
This is the part I suspect many of us rush.
After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water, reshape the bristles and lay the brushes flat to dry. The AAD advises against drying them upright because water can run into the ferrule—the metal section holding the bristles—and loosen the glue.
Once they are completely dry, then put them away.
What I Wish I’d Known Earlier: a makeup bag is useful for carrying clean, dry brushes. It is not a drying rack.
3. Rethink the Bathroom Counter
A cup filled with beautiful brushes beside the sink looks lovely.
It may not be the best storage spot.
Bathrooms can be warm, humid and prone to splashes. The FDA notes that some microorganisms can grow faster in warm or damp storage conditions.
If possible, keep brushes in a clean, dry part of the bedroom or dressing area instead.
You do not necessarily need a special brush organiser. A clean drawer, covered holder or breathable brush case can work perfectly well once the brushes are fully dry.
4. Clean What Holds the Brushes
There is little point washing your brushes carefully and returning them to a makeup bag coated with old powder and foundation.
Empty the holder, drawer insert or brush bag periodically and wipe or wash it according to the material.
And avoid sharing brushes. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against sharing makeup brushes because oils, dead skin cells and bacteria from another person can transfer to your skin.
Wash your brushes, let them dry completely and give them a clean, dry home. That small change may be less glamorous than buying another beauty organiser, but it is one of the easiest ways to make your makeup routine a little more hygienic.
