Straight hair, don't care? Think again! Maintaining the cleanliness of your hair straightening tools is crucial not only for their longevity but also for the health of your hair. A build-up of product residue, hair sprays, and even dead skin cells can clog your brush and damage your straightener's plates, leading to less effective straightening and potentially even damage to your locks. Dirty tools also harbour bacteria, which can contribute to scalp irritation and even breakouts. Ignoring regular cleaning can mean you're essentially transferring grime directly onto your hair with each use.
This often-overlooked task is simpler than you think! This ultimate guide will take you through a step-by-step process on how to deep clean both your straightening brush and flat iron, leaving them sparkling and ready for your next styling session. Let's dive into the detailed instructions and get your hair tools squeaky clean!
Safety Guidelines
- Always unplug your hair straightener completely before cleaning and allow it to cool completely to prevent burns.
- Never immerse your hair straightener or straightening brush in water or any liquid. This can cause short circuits and damage the device.
- Use only recommended cleaning products and methods for your specific straightener or brush model. Refer to your device's manual for detailed instructions.
Methods: Deep Cleaning Your Hair Straightening Brush with a Soft Cloth
Tools Needed
- Soft cloth (or soft hacksaw)
- Tweezers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Straightening Brush
- Remove stuck hair strands with your fingers and tweezers.
Prepare the Straightening Brush Dampen Cleaning Cloth
- Slightly dampen a soft cloth.
Dampen Cleaning Cloth Clean the Brush
- Gently wipe the brush bristles with the damp cloth, ensuring to reach all areas.
Clean the Brush Dry the Brush
- Let the brush air dry completely to prevent moisture damage.
Dry the Brush
Tips
- Don't over-wet the cloth; a slightly damp cloth is sufficient.
- This method provides a thorough cleaning without harsh chemicals.
Methods: Quick Cleaning Your Hair Straightener Plates
Tools Needed
- Wet wipes
- Soft cloth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cool Down Straightener
- Unplug and let the straightener cool down completely.
Cool Down Straightener Clean Straightener Plates
- Wipe the plates with a wet wipe or a slightly damp soft cloth.
Clean Straightener Plates Dry Straightener Plates
- Let the plates air dry completely before using again.
Dry Straightener Plates
Tips
- Regular cleaning prevents product buildup and ensures even heat distribution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using harsh chemicals
Reason: Strong cleaning agents can damage the brush's bristles and the straightener's coating, shortening their lifespan.
Solution: Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners like mild dish soap and water, or specialized hair tool cleaners.
2. Cleaning the straightener while it's hot
Reason: This can cause burns and damage the plates or barrel due to thermal shock.
Solution: Always allow your straightener to cool completely before attempting to clean it.
3. Ignoring built-up product residue
Reason: Leaving product buildup on your tools reduces their effectiveness and can potentially damage your hair over time.
Solution: Regularly clean your tools, even if they don't look visibly dirty, to prevent buildup.
FAQs
How often should I deep clean my hair straightener and brush?
The frequency depends on usage. For daily use, aim for a deep clean at least once a month. For less frequent use, every 2-3 months is sufficient. Regular wiping after each use is crucial to prevent buildup.
Can I use harsh chemicals to clean my hair straightener?
No, avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaners. These can damage the plates of your straightener and potentially the bristles of your brush. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners.
My hair straightener plates are stuck together! What should I do?
Try gently prying them apart with a non-metal utensil (like a wooden or plastic spatula). If stuck tightly, let the straightener cool completely, then try again. If it remains stuck, consult the manufacturer's instructions or consider professional repair.