How to Clean a Makeup Sponge

Reusable antibacterial makeup sponges are an eco-friendly alternative to single-use cotton pads. However, like all other makeup tools, sponges need to be cleaned regularly. It's recommended to wash the sponge daily or weekly using either liquid soap or bar soap to maintain hygiene.

Wet the makeup sponge with clean water. The sponge needs to be wet for the soap to lather. Turn on warm water to dampen the sponge, then wring out excess water.

• The sponge should be damp but not dripping wet.

Clean the makeup sponge with liquid soap. Spray a small amount of baby shower oil or liquid soap onto your hands and gently roll the sponge between your palms. Once the sponge has absorbed the soap, rinse it thoroughly under warm water and squeeze out the excess liquid. Repeat this process until the water running from the sponge is clear.

• Reusable makeup sponges are highly absorbent. You may need to wash them multiple times to remove all the makeup residue.
• Some makeup sponges, also known as foundation blending sponges, come with a special liquid soap for cleaning. However, baby shower oil or dishwashing liquid will not damage the sponge.

Dry the makeup sponge. Once the sponge is clean, turn off the water and squeeze out the excess moisture. Wrap the sponge in a towel and press it to expel the remaining water. Repeat this action a few times until the sponge is nearly dry. Leave the sponge out overnight to dry completely. When fully dry, the sponge will return to its original size.

• The makeup sponge must be completely dry before you use it again.

Moisten the sponge and the bar soap. Hold the sponge under warm running water to dampen it. Set the sponge aside and take a mild, unscented bar soap. Wet it under the faucet, and rub the soap between your palms until your hands are covered in lather.

• Some reusable makeup sponges, called foundation blending sponges, come with a bar soap for cleaning, but you can also use a mild, unscented bar soap without worrying about damaging the sponge.

Rub the soap lather into the sponge, rinse, and repeat. Massage the soap lather into the makeup sponge. Once the sponge is fully soaked with soap bubbles, rinse it under warm water and wring it out. Repeat the washing, rinsing, and squeezing process until the water from the sponge runs clear.

• You can also rub the sponge directly onto the bar soap.
• Ensure that all soap is rinsed out of the sponge.

Let the sponge air dry naturally. After rinsing off all the makeup and soap from the sponge, turn off the water and gently squeeze the sponge to remove excess moisture. Lay a clean towel on the table and place the sponge with its absorbent side down. When the sponge shrinks back to its original size, it means it is fully dry.

Soak the makeup sponge to remove stubborn stains. If regular washing doesn't remove the makeup or dirt, soak the sponge in warm soapy water for about 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water and squeeze out excess moisture. Let it dry completely before using it again.

• You can also place the sponge in a mesh bag and wash it in the washing machine on a gentle rinse cycle.

Store the makeup sponge properly. Proper storage helps extend the sponge's lifespan and prevents acne-causing bacteria from growing inside it.

• Keep the sponge in a cool, well-ventilated, and sunny area, not in a drawer, medicine cabinet, or sealed makeup bag.
• Place the sponge on a soap dish in the bathroom, where it will be exposed to air and light to kill bacteria.
• If you're taking the sponge on the go, store it in a separate mesh bag. Avoid tossing this soft, absorbent tool into a bag with other cosmetics, germs, or sharp objects.

Prevent acne by cleaning and replacing your makeup sponge. Reusable makeup sponges are made of antibacterial foam. While designed for multiple uses, they can accumulate bacteria and deteriorate if not properly cared for and regularly replaced.

• Clean the makeup sponge at least once a week. If you're prone to acne, wash it after each use.
• Replace this eco-friendly product every 3-4 months.

Dispose of disposable cotton pads after each use. Basic cotton pads are not designed for multiple uses. These products can harbor bacteria that may cause infections and/or acne, so they should be thrown away after use. Do not attempt to clean these cotton pads.

• If you plan to purchase reusable makeup sponges, opt for antibacterial sponges.