10 Best Makeup Brush Cleaners (2026)
Dirty makeup brushes hold oil, dead skin, bacteria and old product. Brushes that are rarely cleaned can leave patchy makeup and may bother sensitive or acne-prone skin. An electric brush cleaner spins a brush in soapy water, which saves scrubbing time, but you can clean brushes just as well by hand with the right soap.
Part of our guide to makeup tools. Start with: 10 Best Makeup Brush Sets (2026): Soft, Well-Made Kits for Every Look
I am Rakib Sarwar, a registered pharmacist with a cosmetology course. I am not a dermatologist, so I keep the advice simple and cautious. This guide compares electric spinners with liquid shampoos, solid soaps and silicone mats, so you can pick the kind of tool that fits your routine.
Top 10 at a glance
| # | Product | Best For | Standout Feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Makeup Brush Cleaner Machine (Electric Spinner) | People who clean lots of brushes and want a hands-free spin | Electric spinner with about 4.6K reviews | Buy Now |
| 2 |  Luxe Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner, USB Charging Station | People who want a rechargeable electric cleaner with adjustable speed | 4.4 stars from about 8.3K reviews | Buy Now |
| 3 |  Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner and Dryer Machine | Shoppers who want a well-known electric option | About 20K reviews | Buy Now |
| 4 |  DUcare Makeup Brush Cleaner Solid Soap Cleanser with Sponge | People who like a solid soap and a scrubbing pad | Solid soap with color-removal sponge | Buy Now |
| 5 |  3 in 1 Silicone Makeup Brush Cleaner Bowl and Mat | People who want a textured surface for scrubbing | Silicone mat with about 2.1K reviews | Buy Now |
| 6 |  Makeup Brush Cleaner, Brush Cleaning Solution and Shampoo | People who want a simple liquid cleanser | About 3.2K reviews at 4.7 stars | Buy Now |
| 7 |  e.l.f. Clean Queen Liquid Brush and Sponge Cleaner | People who want a foaming cleaner for brushes and sponges | Foaming cleaner from a familiar budget brand | Buy Now |
| 8 |  EcoTools Makeup Brush Cleanser and Sponge Shampoo, Fragrance-Free | People with sensitive skin or noses | Fragrance-free cleanser with 4.7 stars | Buy Now |
| 9 |  e.l.f. Makeup Brush Shampoo | Shoppers who want an inexpensive, trusted brush wash | About 1.7K reviews at 4.5 stars | Buy Now |
| 10 |  Foldable Silicone Makeup Brush Cleaner Bowl | Travelers and small bathrooms | Foldable silicone bowl with 4.7 stars | Buy Now |
Electric brush cleaners are a smaller category on Amazon, and only three of them have enough reviews to make this list. Their ratings sit at about 4.2 to 4.4, a little below the manual cleansers. So this guide also includes the best-reviewed liquid cleaners, a solid soap and silicone tools, and it says plainly which is which.
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Cleaning is only half the job. Rinsing well, drying brushes flat and replacing worn ones matter just as much, and I cover each step. I also say who can skip an electric cleaner, because a simple soap and a silicone mat are enough for many people and cost far less.
Below you will find how I chose these products, how often to clean brushes, step-by-step instructions, how to choose, who should skip an electric cleaner, and ten picks with pros, cons and a Skip it if line for each.
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At a Glance
- Face brushes that touch foundation or concealer should be washed about weekly.
- Eye brushes may need cleaning every one to two weeks.
- Electric spinners save time but do not clean better than careful hand washing.
- Liquid and solid cleansers work with a silicone mat or a bowl.
- Use lukewarm water and keep the glue end of the bristles dry.
- Dry brushes flat or with bristles hanging over an edge.
- Replace shedding or stiff brushes, and see a doctor for any eye or skin infection.
Contents
- The 10 Best Makeup Brush Cleaners Right Now
- How We Chose These Makeup Brush Cleaners
- Why Clean Makeup Brushes Matter
- Electric vs Manual Brush Cleaners
- How to Clean Makeup Brushes Safely
- How to Choose a Makeup Brush Cleaner
- Drying and Storing Brushes
- Who Should Use an Electric Cleaner and Who Should Skip
- Honest Limits
- When to See a Professional
- Your Questions, Answered
- Where This Leaves You
The 10 Best Makeup Brush Cleaners Right Now
Three picks are electric spinners and seven are manual cleansers or silicone tools. Electric brush cleaners are a small category with few high-rated listings, so the list also includes the best liquid and solid cleaners. Every pick is a widely reviewed Amazon listing, ordered from highest to lowest list price.
The order says nothing about quality, so use the Best For line to match a product to your needs.
Makeup Brush Cleaner Machine (Electric Spinner)
Best for: People who clean lots of brushes and want a hands-free spin
This electric cleaner spins a brush in a bowl of soapy water, so you do not scrub each brush by hand. It is the highest-priced item here and has several thousand ratings at about 4.2 stars.
It suits people with a large brush collection. Electric spinners can be loud and may splash, so use a towel under it and check the listing for the included brush collets.
- Electric spinner
- Includes brush collets per listing
- Cleans and dries by spinning
- Plug in or battery per listing
Pros
- Saves scrubbing time
- Many reviews
- Handles several brush sizes
Cons
- Highest price on the list
- Can splash and be noisy
Skip it if: Skip it if you only own a few brushes.
Check Price on AmazonLuxe Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner, USB Charging Station
Best for: People who want a rechargeable electric cleaner with adjustable speed
Luxe is an electric brush cleaner with a USB charging station and three adjustable speeds per its listing. Its rating of about 4.4 is the best among the electric models here.
It suits people who want control over spin speed for delicate brushes. As with every spinner, rinse the brushes thoroughly afterward.
- 3 adjustable speeds per listing
- USB charging station
- Electric spinner
- Multiple brush collets
Pros
- Highest rating among electric models
- Adjustable speed
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Needs charging
- Bowl can be small for big brushes
Skip it if: Skip it if you prefer a simple soap and a mat.
Check Price on AmazonElectric Makeup Brush Cleaner and Dryer Machine
Best for: Shoppers who want a well-known electric option
This electric brush cleaner and dryer has around 20,000 ratings, the largest review base of any electric model here. The rating is about 4.2, so expect a decent but not flawless tool.
It suits people who want a proven, popular electric cleaner. Check recent reviews for motor durability before buying.
- Electric cleaner and dryer spin
- Includes brush collets
- Bowl design
- Battery operated per listing
Pros
- Huge review base
- Fast cleaning
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Rating about 4.2
- Motor durability reports vary
Skip it if: Skip it if you worry about motor noise.
Check Price on AmazonDUcare Makeup Brush Cleaner Solid Soap Cleanser with Sponge
Best for: People who like a solid soap and a scrubbing pad
DUcare is a solid soap cleanser that comes with a color removal sponge, per its listing. It has about 2,000 ratings at around 4.5 stars.
It suits people who like a travel-friendly bar rather than a liquid. Rinse well so no soap stays in the bristles.
- Solid soap cleanser
- Color-removal sponge per listing
- Travel friendly
- Gentle formula per listing
Pros
- Good rating
- No spilling
- Easy to pack
Cons
- Takes manual scrubbing
- Soap can dry out if left wet
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a machine to do the work.
Check Price on Amazon3 in 1 Silicone Makeup Brush Cleaner Bowl and Mat
Best for: People who want a textured surface for scrubbing
A silicone cleaning mat or bowl adds ridges that loosen makeup from bristles as you swirl. This one has roughly 2,100 ratings at about 4.4 stars.
It pairs well with any liquid or solid cleanser. It will not clean on its own, so you still need soap.
- Silicone mat and bowl design
- Textured surface
- Reusable
- Compact
Pros
- Low cost
- Reusable
- Works with any soap
Cons
- Manual scrubbing needed
- Needs a separate cleanser
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a hands-free machine.
Check Price on AmazonMakeup Brush Cleaner, Brush Cleaning Solution and Shampoo
Best for: People who want a simple liquid cleanser
This liquid brush shampoo has around 3,200 ratings at about 4.7 stars, the best rating for a liquid cleanser on this list. Liquids work well for foundation and cream makeup residue.
It suits anyone who wants a straightforward soap and a bowl. Rinse thoroughly and let brushes dry flat.
- Liquid cleaning solution
- 5.3 fl oz bottle per listing
- Works on brushes and sponges per listing
- Easy to rinse
Pros
- High rating
- Easy to use
- Affordable
Cons
- Needs your own bowl or mat
- Fragrance may bother some
Skip it if: Skip it if you are sensitive to fragrance.
Check Price on Amazone.l.f. Clean Queen Liquid Brush and Sponge Cleaner
Best for: People who want a foaming cleaner for brushes and sponges
e.l.f. makes a gentle foaming cleaner for brushes and sponges. It has fewer ratings than others here, about 880, but a rating of about 4.6.
It suits people who want a quick foam on makeup sponges as well as brushes. Check the listing for the exact size.
- Foaming liquid cleaner
- For brushes and sponges
- Gentle formula per listing
- Budget brand
Pros
- High rating
- Works on sponges
- Low price
Cons
- Fewer reviews than others
- Foam can be thin on heavy makeup
Skip it if: Skip it if you only clean brushes with a machine.
Check Price on AmazonEcoTools Makeup Brush Cleanser and Sponge Shampoo, Fragrance-Free
Best for: People with sensitive skin or noses
EcoTools offers a fragrance-free cleanser for brushes and sponges, with about 1,500 ratings at 4.7 stars. Fragrance-free is a plus if scents irritate you.
It suits anyone sensitive to perfume in a bathroom product. Rinse well so no residue stays in bristles.
- Fragrance-free
- 8 fl oz per listing
- For brushes and sponges
- Liquid cleanser
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Excellent rating
- Large bottle
Cons
- Needs manual scrubbing
- Not an electric tool
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a hands-free cleaner.
Check Price on Amazone.l.f. Makeup Brush Shampoo
Best for: Shoppers who want an inexpensive, trusted brush wash
A budget brush shampoo from a familiar brand, with roughly 1,700 ratings at about 4.5 stars. It is made to lift oil and dirt from bristles gently.
It suits people on a budget who clean brushes by hand. It is also a good refill for silicone mats.
- Brush shampoo
- Gentle on bristles per listing
- Low price
- Easy to find
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good rating
- Simple
Cons
- Manual cleaning only
- Small bottle
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a spinner machine.
Check Price on AmazonFoldable Silicone Makeup Brush Cleaner Bowl
Best for: Travelers and small bathrooms
A foldable silicone bowl that collapses flat for travel, with around 2,600 ratings at 4.7 stars. It is the lowest-priced item here.
It is a handy pick for trips or small spaces. You will still need to bring a cleanser.
- Foldable silicone bowl
- Textured scrubbing surface per listing
- Portable
- Reusable
Pros
- Lowest price
- Collapses flat
- Great rating
Cons
- Smaller bowl
- Needs your own soap
Skip it if: Skip it if you wash many brushes at once.
Check Price on AmazonHow We Chose These Makeup Brush Cleaners
I searched Amazon for electric makeup brush cleaners, spinner machines, brush shampoos and silicone cleaning tools, then screened by rating and review count. The target is 4.3 stars with at least 500 reviews, with a fallback of 4.2 stars and 300 reviews.
Electric models are rare at that level, so the three electric picks sit at about 4.2 to 4.4.
I allowed no more than two items per brand, and ordered the picks by list price from highest to lowest. Prices and ratings are not shown in the picks, because both change often. I read each listing for what it claims and treated battery and drying claims as best case.
I have not lab-tested these products. This guide is research-based and is not medical advice.
Why Clean Makeup Brushes Matter
Brushes pick up skin oil, dead skin cells, powder and cream makeup. Over time this buildup can make product go on streaky and may clog pores or irritate sensitive skin. Eye brushes can also carry bacteria close to the eyes.
Washing brushes does not treat acne or infections, but clean tools are part of good hygiene. Dermatology groups such as the American Academy of Dermatology recommend regularly washing makeup brushes and sponges.
Regular cleaning also protects your brushes. Old product can stiffen bristles and shorten brush life.
Electric vs Manual Brush Cleaners
| Type | How it works | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric spinner | Spins brush in soapy water | Large brush collections | Noise, splashing, battery |
| Liquid brush shampoo | Lathers in a bowl or mat | Foundation and cream residue | Fragrance, thorough rinsing |
| Solid soap | Swirled on a wet brush | Travel and powders | Drying out, rinsing |
| Silicone mat or bowl | Textured surface for scrubbing | Anyone who hand washes | Needs a separate cleanser |
For most people, a gentle liquid soap and a silicone mat is the best value. An electric spinner is a convenience if you wash many brushes.
How to Clean Makeup Brushes Safely
Clean brushes gently so the glue at the base of the bristles stays intact. Follow these steps whether you use an electric spinner or wash by hand.
Wet the bristles only
Hold the brush with bristles pointing down and wet them with lukewarm water. Keep water away from the metal ferrule.
Add a little cleanser
Use a drop of liquid shampoo or swirl the brush on solid soap.
Swirl and lather
Swirl on a silicone mat, in a bowl, or in an electric spinner until the lather turns clear.
Rinse until clear
Rinse under lukewarm running water until no soap remains.
Reshape and squeeze
Gently squeeze out water and reshape the bristles with your fingers.
Dry flat
Lay brushes flat or hang the heads over an edge so water does not run into the handle.
Wash foundation and concealer brushes weekly. Eye brushes and sponges may need more frequent cleaning.
Do not soak brushes or stand them upright in water. Water can loosen the glue and damage the handle.
How to Choose a Makeup Brush Cleaner
Start with how many brushes you own. If you wash five or fewer, a bowl, a mat and soap are enough. If you wash a large set weekly, an electric spinner can save time.
| Feature | Why it matters | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Affects convenience | USB charging or batteries per listing |
| Brush collets | Fit different handles | Several sizes included |
| Cleanser formula | Affects skin and bristles | Gentle, fragrance-free if sensitive |
| Bowl size | Affects splashing | Deep enough for large brushes |
| Drying features | Speeds drying | Spin dry or flat drying rack |
Read recent reviews for motor quality and battery life when choosing an electric cleaner. For liquids, look for comments on rinsing and fragrance.
If you have sensitive skin, a fragrance-free cleanser is usually the safer choice.
Drying and Storing Brushes
Wet brushes grow mold if stored in a closed container. Always dry them flat on a clean towel or hang the heads over a counter edge so water drains away from the handle.
Let brushes dry fully before using or storing them. Overnight is usually enough, but dense foundation brushes may take longer.
Store brushes in an open holder or a clean pouch, away from steamy bathrooms where they stay damp.
Who Should Use an Electric Cleaner and Who Should Skip
Good Habits
- People with many brushes
- Those short on time
- Anyone who dislikes scrubbing by hand
- People who like quick weekly routines
- Makeup artists who clean brushes often
Common Mistakes
- People with only a few brushes
- Anyone who dislikes noise
- Those who worry about motor wear
- People who prefer a gentle hand wash
- Anyone with limited counter space
If you are unsure, start with a liquid shampoo and a silicone mat, then add an electric spinner later if you want it.
Honest Limits
Clean brushes do not cure acne, fungal skin problems or eye infections. Brush cleaners only help with hygiene.
Electric cleaners are not necessarily better than hand washing. They mainly save time.
I have not tested these products myself, and the picks are based on listing claims and customer reviews.
Listings, prices and ratings change often, so check the current Amazon page before buying.
When to See a Professional
See a doctor if you have an eye infection, a stye, persistent acne or any irritated skin that does not improve. Do not use dirty or shared brushes near the eyes during an infection.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. I am a registered pharmacist with a cosmetology course, not a dermatologist or eye doctor.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best electric makeup brush cleaner?
Luxe has the best rating among electric models here, while the 20K-review electric machine is the most popular.
Do electric brush cleaners work better than hand washing?
Not necessarily. They save time, but careful hand washing with gentle soap is just as effective.
How often should I wash makeup brushes?
Foundation and concealer brushes about weekly, and eye brushes every one to two weeks.
Can I use baby shampoo to clean brushes?
A mild shampoo can work, but a dedicated brush cleanser is formulated for bristles.
Should I use hot water?
Use lukewarm water. Hot water can loosen the glue holding the bristles.
How do I dry makeup brushes?
Reshape them and lay them flat or hang the heads over an edge so water does not run into the handle.
Do I need a silicone mat?
No, but the ridges help loosen makeup and speed up hand washing.
Can I clean makeup sponges the same way?
Many cleaners work on sponges too, but check the label of each product.
How often should I replace brushes?
Replace brushes that shed, feel stiff or smell even after cleaning.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor for eye infections, styes or skin irritation that does not improve.
Where This Leaves You
The best brush cleaner is the one you will actually use. An electric spinner makes it faster, while a gentle soap and a silicone mat do the job well for much less. Wash brushes regularly, rinse thoroughly and let them dry fully.
If you have an eye or skin infection, stop using shared or dirty brushes and see a doctor.
Our top pick: Makeup Brush Cleaner Machine (Electric Spinner)
If you want one safe place to start, try EcoTools or a liquid shampoo with a silicone mat. Choose Luxe for a rated electric spinner, the 20K-review electric machine for a popular option and a foldable bowl for travel.
Check Price on Amazon
Written by
Registered pharmacist and founder of Facial Adviser. Rakib's pharmacy training covers how skincare actives work and interact; a later course in cosmetology turned that into a focus on facial treatments and skincare products. He plans, researches and edits every guide on the site and checks health claims against sources such as the American Academy of Dermatology, the FDA and the NIH. He is not a dermatologist; see the Editorial Policy and Medical Disclaimer.
About · Editorial policy · How we choose products · Medical disclaimer · Contact
Keep reading: Makeup brushes and tools
- 10 Best Makeup Brush Sets (2026): Soft, Well-Made Kits for Every Look
- Are You Supposed to Wash Makeup Brushes Before Using Them?
- How Often Do Makeup Brushes Need to Be Replaced?
- Are You Supposed to Wet Makeup Sponges? When, How, and Why
- Best Way to Dry Makeup Brushes: Flat, Angled Down and Never Upright
- How Often Do Makeup Brushes Need to Be Cleaned?
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