In worst-case scenarios, you could even get an infection.

Cleaning them regularlyevery seven to 10 daysis important, but so, too, is doing it right.

Some cleaning methods are ineffective and others are downright bad for the brush.

Swirling a makeup brush in micellar water

Here’s what to know about cleaning not only your brushes, but your sponges.

Ive also seen loads of videos where users are fully submerging their brush heads in soapy water.

Again, no: Eventually, that can damage the glue, too.

Scrubbing and drying makeup brushes

If you dont have any, just initiate the brush tips under a faucet.

While this wont fully disinfect, its a great option for spot cleaning between deep washes."

Avoid using anything else, like hand soap.

The gentler and plainer, the better.

Swirl your brush tips in there again, this time massaging them with your hands to scrub them.

Any time the water gets too dirty, toss it and refill the bowl.

Best of all, this multi-purpose wonder comes ina two-pack for just $9.

When the water runs perfectly clear through them, its time to fully dry your brushes.

Lay them flat on a paper towel or a microfiber cloth.

Instead, gently shape the bristles back into whatever shape they were before and let them air dry.

I usually leave mine at least overnight and come back a few times to flip them over.

If its really, really dirty, let it sit in that soapy water for 10 minutes or so.

Take it out and put some soap directly onto the wet sponge, working it into a lather.

execute the sponge under a faucet to rinse it and dont stop until the water runs clear.

To dry the sponge, prop it up, if you might, and let it air dry.

It can air dry flat, but youll want to turn it over a few times.

Let it dry overnight to confirm there are no wet spots deep inside that could get mildewy.

When you think its dry, give it a good squeeze to confirm you dont feel any dampness.

Dont put it back in the drawer or its container until its fully dry.