When was the last time you cleaned your flat iron or soaked your hair rollers in soapy water? We see that guilty face? Well, in that case, this one’s a definite read for you!
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your hair tools is pivotal for two big reasons. Apart from the fact that a clean set of tools gives you optimum performance and ideal results, it also helps to keep infections at bay and considerably reduce health risks for both the stylist and user.
So, here’s a rundown of the most effective tips to keep your styling tools in the best condition.
1. FLAT IRONS AND CURLING IRONS
Iron plates and barrels of flat/curling irons are made up of different substances and should be cleaned at regular intervals to remove residue of hair products.
To clean:
- Wipe the plates and barrels with a microfiber towel and water. And yes, don’t forget the crevices too.
- Wipe the plates and barrels with a microfiber towel and water. And yes, don’t forget the crevices too.
- For tough build-up, try using rubbing alcohol or a professional cleaning spray and wipe clean with a moist towel.
- Product build-up generally comes off easily when the tools are warm (not hot). Therefore, plug the tool and allow it to heat slightly. Once warm, unplug and start scrubbing.
- Use a Q-tip to clean the crevices.
Tips:
You can buy: The Body Shop Exfoliating Skin Towel
2. BLOW-DRYERS
We generally keep the blow-dryer super clean from the outside but germs tend to accumulate in and around the back vent.
To clean:
- Look out for the air vent, you should either find it on the back of the dryer or on the side.
- Remove the vent cover to reach the filter.
- Use an old dry toothbrush to scrub off the lint and dust particles.
- For effective filter cleaning, use a toothpick or a pair of tweezers.
- Don’t forget to clean the nozzle and body with a damp cloth too.
Tips:
You can buy: Oral-B Pro Health Base CrissCross Toothbrush - Medium, Vega Tweezer - Square Tip (Tw-01)
3. COMBS AND BRUSHES
These indeed get very dirty, thanks to the broken strands of hair that get entangled around the bristles.
To clean:
- Pull out the stray strands.
- Fill a small tub with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild shampoo to it.
- Soak your combs and brushes in this liquid. Gently scrub the base of the comb and brush with an old toothbrush to get best results.
- For stubborn hair knots, use a pair of scissors and clean using a mixture made of warm water and vinegar.
- Post cleaning, allow the combs and brushes to air dry, but if you are pressed for time, use a blow-dryer.
Tips:
You can buy: Oral-B Pro Health Base CrissCross Toothbrush - Medium, Panache Scissor Small All Purpose, Vega Blooming Air VHDH-05 Hair Dryer (Color May Vary), Himalaya Herbals Protein Shampoo Gentle Daily Care
HAIR ACCESSORIES
Yes, you got that right—they need to be cleaned too!
To clean:
- Dip them in a bowl of water mixed with shampoo.
- Rub gently to clean and air-dry on a clean towel.
- Try using a mix of baking soda and warm water for intensely dirty accessories.
Tips:
You can buy: The Body Shop Exfoliating Skin Towel, Oral-B Pro Health Base CrissCross Toothbrush - Medium
