How to Clean Makeup Brushes with an Ultrasonic Cleaner (Safely and Thoroughly)

Dirty makeup brushes don’t just mess up your makeup; they can mess with your skin, too. I used to dread cleaning them until I discovered how to clean makeup brushes with an ultrasonic cleaner. And it is really a game changer. It’s efficient, quick, and weirdly satisfying.

Using an ultrasonic cleaner on makeup brushes is a great idea, but you have to exercise patience and precaution. There are a couple of precautions to consider. I will take you through exactly how I do this, why it is so effective, and what to avoid in this guide. 

How to Clean a Makeup Brush with an Ultrasonic Cleaner

The first time I used an ultrasonic cleaner, I was impressed. I could see the dirt being removed from the bristles, and I did not have to scrub anything at all.

Here’s how cleaning a makeup brush with an ultrasonic cleaner works: When an ultrasonic cleaning machine runs, it sends high-frequency sound waves (typically 40kHz) into the water or cleaning solution. 

These sound waves create tiny bubbles in the water or cleaning solution. These bubbles form and burst very fast - a phenomenon known as cavitation. 

The pressure created then loosens dirt, oil, and remaining makeup in the smallest nooks and crannies of your brushes.

This cleaning method is powerful yet gentle enough, which is what makes it a great choice for tool for washing items that are too fragile to put through (potentially) harmful detergents.

Why Clean Makeup Brushes with an Ultrasonic Cleaner?

Compared to cleaning your makeup brushes with other methods like manual cleaning (soap and water) and brush cleaning sprays, using an ultrasonic cleaner is faster, more delicate, and more sanitary.

Here are some advantages of using an ultrasonic cleaner for your makeup brushes:

• It does a deep cleaning in less time. Cavitation cleans deep down the bristles, where a normal cleaning cannot reach.
• There is no harsh scrubbing with an ultrasonic cleaner. The fibers of your makeup brush stay soft longer since there’s no harsh scrubbing involved.
• The ultrasonic cleaner removes the makeup and also kills bacteria. It also helps eliminate germs when added to a mild soap and heated water.
• Safe for sponges too: I even clean up my beauty blenders with it, no tears, no residue.
• It can be used for cleaning other personal items. Other than brushes, I use my machine for my jewelry, glasses, and even pacifiers.

And if you are still handling your brushes manually and are still using the brush scrub, believe me, it is time to upgrade.

Precautions When Using an Ultrasonic Cleaner for Brushes

Yes, it is remarkable, but there are some dos and don'ts in relation to ultrasonic cleaners or makeup brushes. Here’s what I’ve learned the hard (and sometimes costly) way:

1. Avoid Soaking the Ferrule (Metal Part)

Firstly, the metal part of your brush, called the ferrule, holds the bristles in place. If water seeps in, it can loosen the glue or cause rust. 

I clean my brushes either vertically to point at the solution with bristles touching it only, or by turning them down into the tank and placing them with a mesh basket.

2. Use the Right Cleaning Solution

Use soft cleansers when cleaning your makeup brush in an ultrasonic cleaner. Baby shampoo, brush soap, or even a few drops of dishwashing liquid will do the trick.

 Don’t use alcohol- or acetone-based solutions, as they will make the bristles dry.

3. Keep the Cleaning Time Short

Thirdly, it is a fact that some people overclean. I normally run my brushes for between 1 to 3 minutes. The majority of the ultrasonic cleaners allow you to put timers in and make use of them!

4. Dry Thoroughly

Lastly, the bristles are straightened, and the brushes are placed horizontally to complete the cleaning process so that they can dry.

 Never store them upright while wet—water may run down the handle and loosen the glue.

My Top Picks: Best Ultrasonic Cleaners for Makeup Brushes

All ultrasonic machines are not similar. Some are designed for heavy-duty cleaning, while others are better suited for delicate items like brushes and jewelry. These are a couple of models I have used and enjoyed:

1. Creworks 6L Professional Ultrasonic Machine

This 6L dual-mode ultrasonic cleaner comes with a heater and a timer. Its compact size and versatile modes make it perfect for cleaning brushes, sponges, and even bigger ones, such as retainers. 

It provides a sound wave at 40kHz, along with the heating capacity of 500W, making it hyper-efficient. And with a gentle mode, it does not cause damage to delicate items. I adore the 1-99 minutes clock and temperature limit to 176°F.

2. Creworks180W Knob Ultrasonic Cleaner

What makes this Creworks 180W ultrasonic cleaner ideal for cleaning items like makeup brushes is that it is a little less bulky but equally effective.

It has a total capacity of 6.5L and comes with a Digital Timer and 300W Heater.  It is a favorite amongst buyers who want a favorite multitasker: for cleaning brushes and other stuff like glasses. 

It is very safe to use and super easy, coming with a 1-30 minute timer and built-in surge protection.

Final Thoughts On Cleaning a Makeup Brush with an Ultrasonic Cleaner

An ultrasonic cleaner for makeup brushes is a fantastic idea, and so worth it to take care of your skincare and makeup. The brushes never harden, there is less congestion on the skin, and you save a lot of time.

So, if you’re ready to clean your makeup brush with an ultrasonic cleaner and treat your beauty tools the way they deserve, I highly recommend choosing a model that’s powerful yet gentle, like the ones in our Creworks collection.

So, Want a Pro-Level Clean at Home?

Make deep cleaning less of a guessing game. Creworks ultrasonic cleaners are made to be all-purpose professional cleaners and suit your needs, from the most delicate fine-tip brushes to industrial-strength tools.