Complete Guide to Makeup Sponge Care & Cleaning | [Meerah Belle]

Meerahbelle makeup sponges are among the most critical application tools utilized for obtaining a flawless finish while putting on foundation, concealer, and other products of makeup. In order to serve them as best as they possibly can, they require suitable maintenance and sanitation.

Guide to Properly Clean & Care for Makeup Sponges

1. Why Clean Your Makeup Sponge?

Bacteria Build-up: Makeup sponges have the potential to build up bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells, which will cause breakouts and irritation of the skin if not cleaned.

Product Residue: Old makeup residue can reduce the effectiveness of the sponge at blending and soak up excess product.

Odor: Sponges will start to smell terrible if not regularly cleaned.

Related Read: How to Clean Makeup Sponges: Step-by-Step Guide

2. How Frequently Should You Clean Your Makeup Sponge?

Daily Usage: Everyday usage means that you'll need to clean your sponge after each use to prevent product and bacteria buildup.

Light Usage: For light usage (2-3 times a week), a weekly deep cleaning might be sufficient.

When You Get Product Build-Up: If your sponge starts feeling heavy or tacky, clean it, even if only a few days have passed since you cleaned it.

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Cleaning Methods

• Spot Daily Cleaning
  Why: Because sometimes you don't want to do a whole clean but you do want to remove excess makeup after every use.

How to do it:

• Use a Makeup Sponge Cleaner or Gentle Soap: Acquire yourself a specialized brush or sponge cleaner, or even just a mild soap (like dish soap or baby shampoo).
• Spray and Wipe: Spray the cleaner lightly onto the sponge and wipe the surface with a clean cloth or tissue. Repeat until the sponge is free of makeup.
• Allow to Air Dry: Spot clean and then place the sponge on a clean surface to air dry before reuse
• Deep Cleaning (Once a Week or as Needed)

Why: Deep cleaning eliminates all makeup, oils, bacteria, and dirt residues that build up within the sponge.

How to do it:

Wet the Sponge: Rinse the sponge under warm running water until it is thoroughly wet.

Related Read: Makeup Sponge Sanitization: Best Practices

Apply Cleaning Agent:

If using baby shampoo or dish soap, apply a small amount directly to the sponge.
Alternatively, use a sponge/brush cleaner or a mild liquid soap.

• Lather and Massage: Massage the sponge between your hands to generate lather. Massage the sponge to degrease makeup residue.
• Rinse and Repeat: Rinse well with warm water. If the water runs clear, then the sponge is clean. Clean the sponge again if it is not clean.
• Dry the Sponge: Squeeze the sponge softly onto a fresh towel to eliminate excess water, and then allow it to dry naturally. Avoid wringing it out, as it may destroy the sponge's structure.
  

Related Read: How to Store Makeup Sponges Properly

3. Alternative Cleaning Methods

•  Baby Shampoo: Gentle on both your skin and the sponge, so it's an excellent choice for everyday cleaning.
•   Dish Soap: Great at breaking down oils and makeup residue. Just make sure to use a mild, non-abrasive formula.
•   Makeup Remover: Might be good at breaking down makeup products. Just make sure to rinse afterward to help ensure removal of any residue.

4. Drying Your Makeup Sponge

•  Air Dry: Always air dry your sponge after washing. Never place a wet sponge in an enclosed space, as it will develop bacteria.
•  Avoid Direct Sunlight: Place your sponge in a well-ventilated space but not in direct sunlight, as it will break down the material over time.
•  Use a Sponge Holder: A mesh holder or drying rack can make drying your sponge quicker and help it keep its shape.

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5. Storing Your Makeup Sponge

•  Keep it Clean: Place your sponge in a clean, dry container or holder after it dries to prevent dust and bacteria from accumulating.
•  Avoid Damp Places: Never keep your sponge in the bathroom since the humidity will affect the cleanliness and longevity of the sponge.

Related Read: When to Replace Your Makeup Sponge

6. When to Replace Your Makeup Sponge

• Discoloration: Makeup sponges will discolor and stain with time, especially if they are not cleaned regularly.
• Tears or Holes: Replace your sponge when it starts to tear or develop holes.
•  Decreased Effectiveness: When the sponge does not blend the makeup anymore, or if it absorbs too much of the product, it may have deteriorated.

7. Additional Tips to Help Your Makeup Sponge Last Longer

•  Use Proper Techniques: Instead of rubbing the sponge harshly against your face, employ a gentle tapping or bouncing motion to apply your makeup. This will reduce wear and tear on the sponge.
•  Choose Quality Sponges: Invest in a good-quality makeup sponge, as it will last longer and be less likely to get damaged.
•  Don't Over-Soak: Gently moisten your sponge so that it does not become too waterlogged, causing it to break down faster.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Harsh Cleaning Products: Never use abrasive chemicals like alcohol or acetone, as these will damage the material of the sponge.
• Not Drying Thoroughly: A damp sponge can very easily develop mold, so always make sure it's completely dry before storing it.
• Not Replacing Regularly: Even with proper care, makeup sponges are not invincible. 

Replace them every 3-6 months, as required.

Shop the Meerahbelle Contour Star Makeup Sponge now! Click here to buy

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your makeup sponge are important to both maintain healthy skin and keep your sponge in good condition for a longer duration of time. If you follow the above tips, your sponges will work more efficiently, and you'll enjoy smooth, even makeup application every time with Meerahbelle Multifunctional Markup Sponge.

👉 Get the Meerahbelle Contour Star Sponge today! Click here to shop

Read More: [How to Clean Makeup Sponges: Step-by-Step Guide] | [Makeup Sponge Sanitization: Best Practices] | [How to Store Makeup Sponges Properly] | [When to Replace Your Makeup Sponge]