Like your makeup brushes, your makeup sponges need an extensive cleaning process to eliminate product and bacteria buildup. Learn how to cleanse your makeup sponges using this step-by-step guide.

What Is a Makeup Sponge?

A makeup sponge is an absorbent tool that applies and blends beauty products into your skin for smooth, even looks. This makeup application tool helps you apply liquid foundations, concealer, highlighter, cream blush, eye shadow, and many other products. Their versatility makes them a favorite of makeup artists, and the sponges come in various forms, from circular, flat sponges to angular shapes with sharp points to help you zero in on hard-to-reach spots. The condition and size that a sponge for makeup differs according to what they’re employed for. Larger, round sponges are ideal for applying the base or foundation. The angled sponges are suitable for contouring and applying your makeup with powder. Smaller sponges can provide the most precise application for the area under your eyes. They are also excellent for covering the appearance of blemishes.

How to clean makeup sponges in just seven steps

It’s essential to wash your makeup sponges thoroughly after every use. Dirty makeup sponges could be a breeding place for bacteria, and you can bet it will lead to breakouts. This step-by-step guide will ensure that your makeup tools are in good condition and efficient:

1. Choose Cleansers Many soaps are effective in helping remove makeup tools that include the liquid type of soaps (like dish soap or hand soap) and a facial cleanser, cosmetic brush cleaner, or baby shampoo. You can also use soap bars by rubbing them into a thick lather on your hands and soaking them in clean water before using them with your makeup sponge. If you’re using oil-based makeup, you can add an oil drop or another oil to help dissolve old makeup.
2. Cleanse your face When you’ve finished your routine of skincare and applying makeup, apply a squirt of soap onto your dirty makeup sponge.
3. Massage Use your sponge to run it underwater to make suds. Work to dissolve the water soapy into the sponge, massaging it with the palms of your hands for between 10 and 15 minutes.
4. Rinse: Get rid of the buildup of soap and product of your cosmetic sponge washing it in flowing water in small containers of water. Repeat the squeeze until it’s free of soap. Do not squeeze it out too much because you may change its shape.
5. Double clean (optional): For difficult spots or stains, you can repeat the cleansing and massaging procedure to clean your makeup sponge twice. It is also possible to let your sponge soak in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to help disintegrate the other products.
6. Dry: Make sure your makeup sponge is dry out in the open or on a towel clean before returning it to your bag for makeup.
7. Replace it regularly. While regular cleaning may prolong the lifespan of the makeup sponges, dermatologists suggest buying brand new sponges every three or six months.