3 Ways To Clean Makeup Sponges - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Clean Makeup Sponges PDF download Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Washing Reusable Makeup Sponges with Liquid Soap 2 Washing Reusable Makeup Sponges with Solid Soap 3 Storing, Cleaning, and Disposing of Makeup Sponges Other Sections Expert Q&A VideoWATCH NOW Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Tymia Yvette

Last Updated: November 2, 2025 Approved

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This article was co-authored by Tymia Yvette. Tymia Yvette is a Makeup and Lash Artist and the founder of Tymia Yvette Beauty LLC, a makeup artistry and lash extension company focused on customized beauty services based in Baltimore, Maryland. Trained by MAC Cosmetics, Tymia's work has been featured in the Bravo A-List Awards 2008, the BET Honors Award Show in 2011, 2012, and 2013, the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week 2011, 2012, and 2013, and the White House Correspondent's Dinner in 2014. She has also provided makeup and lash services for the Betsy Royal Casting Agency and the Baltimore Raven's cheerleading squad from 2010 to 2012. Her clients include Terrence Howard, Torrey Smith, Lester Holt, Adrienne Lofton, and Natasha Hastings. She has been awarded WeddingWire's Couple's Choice Award in 2017, 2018, and 2019. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 83% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 375,862 times.

Reusable, microbial-resistant makeup sponges or beauty blenders are an eco-friendly alternative to basic foam sponges. Like all other reusable makeup tools, however, these sponges need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Grime, germs, oils, and other gunk can build up in a dirty sponge and damage your skin. Wash your makeup blenders with liquid or solid soap on a daily or weekly basis.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Washing Reusable Makeup Sponges with Liquid Soap

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  1. Step 1 Dampen the sponge with fresh water. 1 Dampen the sponge with fresh water. In order for the soap to work into a cleansing lather, your dirty sponge must be wet. Turn on your faucet and run your reusable sponge under warm water. Squeeze the sponge to remove the excess water.
    • Your sponge should be damp, not soaking wet.[1]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Makeup Sponges 2 Clean the reusable sponge with liquid soap. Squirt a dime-sized drop of mild liquid baby shampoo or dish soap into your hand and roll the sponge between your palms. When the sponge has absorbed all of the soap, rinse it under warm water and squeeze out the excess water. Repeat this process until the water coming from the sponge is clear.
    • Reusable sponges are very absorbent. To remove all of the makeup, you may need to apply soap and rinse the sponge several times.
    • Some reusable sponges, also called makeup blenders, are sold with specially formulated liquid cleansers. Cleaning these sponges with gentle baby shampoo or dish soap will not result in damage.[2]
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Makeup Sponges 3 Dry your reusable sponge. Once your sponge is clean, turn off the water and squeeze out all of the excess water. Grab a clean towel and wrap your sponge in it and squeeze the rest of the excess water out. Repeat this step a couple times until you feel the sponge is mostly dry. Lay sponge out overnight to completely dry. As your reusable sponge dries, it will shrink down to its original size.[3]
    • The sponge should be completely dry before you use it again.
    4. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Washing Reusable Makeup Sponges with Solid Soap

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Makeup Sponges 1 Dampen your reusable sponge and the bar of soap. To moisten your makeup sponge, run the tool under warm water. Set the damp sponge aside and pick up a bar of gentle, unscented soap. Place the bar soap under the facet to get it wet. Rub the bar of soap between your hands until your fingers and palms are coated with a bubbly lather.
    • Some reusable makeup sponges, often called makeup blenders, are sold with solid soap cleansers. You will not damage these products by cleaning them with gentle, scent-free soap.[4]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Makeup Sponges 2 Massage the lather into your sponge, rinse, and repeat. Pick up the reusable sponge and rub the soapy lather into the beauty tool. When the sponge has absorbed all of the lather, thoroughly rinse it under warm water and squeeze the excess water from the sponge. Repeat this process of cleansing, rinsing, and squeezing the sponge until the water coming from the makeup applicator is clear.
    • You may also rub the sponge over the bar of soap.
    • Make sure to rinse all of the soap out of the sponge.[5]
  3. Step 3 Let your sponge air dry. 3 Let your sponge air dry. When the sponge is makeup and soap free, turn off the faucet and squeeze out the excess water with your hands or a clean towel. Lay a fresh towel on your counter and place your sponge flat on its absorbent surface. When your sponge has shrunk down to its original size, you will know it is dry.[6]
    4. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Storing, Cleaning, and Disposing of Makeup Sponges

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Makeup Sponges 1 Soak reusable makeup sponges to get rid of stubborn dirt or stains. If regular cleaning doesn’t remove makeup or dirt on your sponge, soak the sponge in warm, soapy water for 30 minutes. Rinse it out afterward with clean water and squeeze out any excess water. Let it dry completely before using it again.[7]
    • You can also put the sponge inside of a mesh bag and throw it in your washing machine on a rinse cycle.
  2. Step 2 Store your sponge separately. 2 Store your sponge separately. Properly storing your makeup sponge will prolong the beauty tool's life. It will also prevent breakout-causing bacteria from growing inside your sponge.
    • Store your sponge in a cool, well-ventilated, and well-lit space. Do not keep your sponge inside a drawer, medicine cabinet, or sealed cosmetic bag.
    • Keep your sponge on your bathroom counter in a clean soap dish. This storage method will expose your sponge to fresh air and bacteria-killing light.
    • When you travel, keep your sponge in a separate mesh makeup bag. Do not throw your absorbent and soft beauty tool into a bag full of makeup, germs, and sharp corners.
  3. Step 3 Prevent breakouts by cleaning and replacing your reusable sponge. 3 Prevent breakouts by cleaning and replacing your reusable sponge. Reusable makeup sponges are made out of a microbial-resistant foam. While these high-quality tools are designed to be reused, they can collect bacteria and deteriorate if not cared for properly and replaced frequently.
    • Wash your reusable sponge at least once a week. If you are prone to breakouts, wash your sponge after every use. In addition, during a pandemic like COVID-19, you should clean and sanitize your sponges and other tools after every makeup application.[8]
    • Replace your eco-friendly sponge every 3 to 4 months.[9]
  4. Step 4 Throw away regular makeup sponges after one use. 4 Throw away regular makeup sponges after one use. Basic foam makeup sponges are not intended for multiple uses. These products harbor bacteria that could cause infections and/or breakouts. After using a foam sponge, throw the product away. Do not attempt to clean these sponges.
    • If you are looking for a reusable sponge, purchase a microbial-resistant foam sponge or blender.[10]
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

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  • Question Do you have to wet a beauty blender? Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer You will get the most even coverage and smoothest application if you dampen the beauty blender before you use it. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 17
  • Question Can you use dish soap to clean a beauty blender? Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer You can, but I would recommend something milder if you have it, like a sulfate-free shampoo. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 7
  • Question Can you clean a beauty blender? Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer Yes, you just need to use a mild cleanser or baby shampoo. Rinse the blender in cool water, massage it with a little cleanser, and rinse it again, repeating until the water runs clear. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 8
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Tips

  • Wash your sponge as many times as needed until it is completely clean. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
  • Try using a fan for faster drying. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
  • You can wash makeup sponges using the same kind of cleanser you would use to clean a makeup brush. Your favorite shampoo, mild soap, or facial cleanser will do the trick. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
  • You can also use Dial hand soap bars to clean them. Nicki Minaj’s makeup artist swears by it.
  • Mixing coconut oil with soap is also great for cleaning sponges and brushes.
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • If you are allergic to dish soap, do not use it! Look for a mild, hypoallergenic hand soap, shampoo, or facial cleanser instead. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0
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References

  1. ↑ http://cleanmyspace.com/how-to-clean-a-beautyblender/
  2. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/blogs/makeup-tutorial/how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-like-a-pro
  3. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/blogs/makeup-tutorial/how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-like-a-pro
  4. ↑ http://www.beautylish.com/a/vxycs/how-to-clean-makeup-sponges, https://www.makeupgeek.com/blogs/makeup-tutorial/how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-like-a-pro
  5. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/blogs/makeup-tutorial/how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-like-a-pro
  6. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/blogs/makeup-tutorial/how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-like-a-pro
  7. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-clean-beauty-blender-makeup-sponge
  8. ↑ Tymia Yvette. Makeup & Lash Artist. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ https://www.qcmakeupacademy.com/2015/11/10-makeup-hygiene-no-nos-that-will-make-you-cringe/, http://cleanmyspace.com/how-to-clean-a-beautyblender/
More References (1)
  1. ↑ https://www.qcmakeupacademy.com/2015/11/10-makeup-hygiene-no-nos-that-will-make-you-cringe/

About This Article

Tymia Yvette Co-authored by: Tymia Yvette Makeup & Lash Artist This article was co-authored by Tymia Yvette. Tymia Yvette is a Makeup and Lash Artist and the founder of Tymia Yvette Beauty LLC, a makeup artistry and lash extension company focused on customized beauty services based in Baltimore, Maryland. Trained by MAC Cosmetics, Tymia's work has been featured in the Bravo A-List Awards 2008, the BET Honors Award Show in 2011, 2012, and 2013, the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week 2011, 2012, and 2013, and the White House Correspondent's Dinner in 2014. She has also provided makeup and lash services for the Betsy Royal Casting Agency and the Baltimore Raven's cheerleading squad from 2010 to 2012. Her clients include Terrence Howard, Torrey Smith, Lester Holt, Adrienne Lofton, and Natasha Hastings. She has been awarded WeddingWire's Couple's Choice Award in 2017, 2018, and 2019. This article has been viewed 375,862 times. 6 votes - 83% Co-authors: 20 Updated: November 2, 2025 Views: 375,862 Categories: Care of Makeup Article SummaryX

To clean a makeup sponge, start by wetting the sponge with warm water. Then, apply a dime-sized amount of liquid dish soap to the sponge and massage it in with your fingers. Once the sponge has absorbed all of the soap, rinse it under warm water. Continue rinsing and squeezing the sponge until the water coming off of it is free of suds. Finally, wrap the sponge in a towel and squeeze it until all of the excess water is out of it. To learn more from our Cosmetologist co-author, like how to store makeup sponges, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

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    May 4, 2018

    "Glad to receive the information on how to clean and store makeup sponges. I always want to have these sponges..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Tymia Yvette Co-authored by: Tymia Yvette Makeup & Lash Artist Co-authors: 20 Updated: November 2, 2025 Views: 375,862 83% of readers found this article helpful. 6 votes - 83% Click a star to add your vote Anonymous

Anonymous

May 4, 2018

"Glad to receive the information on how to clean and store makeup sponges. I always want to have these sponges..." more Ladadi Ladado

Ladadi Ladado

Jun 11, 2017

"This is somewhat useful, I use Linx gel wash to clean mine and I find it works better than any other soap. But each..." more Rated this article: Kylie Hale

Kylie Hale

Mar 4, 2019

"I am glad I received this info. It was really helpful, because I didn't know how to clean a makeup sponge..." more Rated this article: Anonymous

Anonymous

Apr 14, 2017

"It was helpful to learn how to clean reusable makeup sponges to avoid skin breakouts." Anonymous

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Apr 14, 2019

"You gave my mind a creative spark. My sponge smells way better, thanks to you!" Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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