Clean brushes are non-negotiable. Better blending, smoother application, fewer breakouts — it all starts with tools that aren’t holding onto last week’s foundation.

Over time, I’ve figured out a system that keeps my brushes soft, sanitary, and long-lasting. I rotate between three cleansers depending on how deep of a wash they need.

1. Beautyblender Cleanser

This is my “deep clean” option. When my foundation and cream brushes are really saturated with product, this is what I grab. It breaks down stubborn makeup quickly without leaving bristles feeling dry or brittle. I swirl the brush directly onto the solid cleanser or work up a lather in my palm, then gently massage through the bristles. You can literally see the pigment melt away.

2. e.l.f. Brush Shampoo

This one is my easy, no-fuss option. Affordable, accessible, and effective. It’s great for routine weekly washing when brushes aren’t extremely dirty but still need a refresh. The formula lathers nicely and rinses clean without residue. I like that it gets the job done without overcomplicating things.

3. Zote Laundry Soap

Jabón Zote is technically a laundry bar soap, but it works incredibly well on makeup brushes — especially for stubborn stains. I wet the brush, rub it gently across the bar, and work it into a lather on a cleansing mat or my palm. It cuts through heavy product fast. And it’s budget-friendly, which makes it perfect if you have a large collection to wash.

Brush cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes I go luxe, sometimes I keep it simple, sometimes I go old-school with a soap. The important part is consistency.