How to Sanitise Secondhand Beauty Tools
You’ve just scored a near-new curling wand at a car boot sale for under a tenner, or perhaps you found a full makeup brush set at your local charity shop that looks untouched. But before adding them to your daily routine, one big question pops up: how do you safely sanitise secondhand beauty tools?
The rise in budget-conscious beauty has led more of us to explore pre-loved finds — but secondhand beauty safety is no joke. Whether it’s brushes, hair tools, or facial gadgets, cleanliness is key. Germs, product residue, and skin oils can linger on surfaces, even if something looks clean.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean, disinfect, and revive secondhand beauty tools, ensuring they’re safe, hygienic, and ready to join your routine. We’ll also cover what not to reuse, storage tips, and smart ways to maintain your tools long after thrifting.
Why Sanitising Beauty Tools Matters (Even If They Look Clean)
Secondhand beauty items can carry:
- Bacteria and fungi (especially in brushes and sponges)
- Old product build-up
- Dead skin cells or oils
- Contaminants from shared storage spaces
This isn’t meant to scare you — just to emphasise the importance of proper sanitisation. With the right techniques, many secondhand tools can be safely reused and last for years.
Which Beauty Tools Can Be Safely Sanitised?
Not everything should be reused, but the following categories are generally safe to sanitise and reuse when cleaned correctly:
Makeup Tools:
- Makeup brushes (synthetic and natural bristles)
- Beauty blenders (only if sealed/new)
- Powder puffs (washable types)
- Spatulas or applicators
Hair Tools:
- Blow dryers
- Curling irons and wands
- Straighteners
- Hot brushes
- Hair clips and combs
Skincare Tools:
- Facial rollers (jade, rose quartz, stainless steel)
- Gua Sha stones
- Silicone cleansing brushes
- Manual blackhead removers (with caution)
Beauty Storage:
- Acrylic organisers
- Glass jars and trays
- Skincare fridges
- Brush holders and compact mirrors
If you’re new to thrifting for beauty, check out Best Beauty Items to Score at Thrift Shops to see which items are worth hunting for and which are better left on the shelf.
Tools That Should Not Be Reused
Even with the best cleaning products, some beauty items are simply not worth the risk.
Avoid reusing:
- Opened mascara or liquid eyeliner
- Lipsticks, glosses, or balm in pots
- Cream-based blush or foundation in compacts
- Sponges or puffs with visible staining
- Contaminated tweezers or metal tools showing rust
Always err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure how an item was stored or if it’s been in contact with skin directly, it’s best to skip it.
Sanitise Secondhand Makeup Brushes
What You’ll Need:
- Gentle shampoo or brush cleanser
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Warm water
- Towel and brush drying rack (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the brush bristles under lukewarm water. Avoid soaking the handle or ferrule.
- Lather with shampoo or cleanser and massage gently.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Spray or dip bristles in isopropyl alcohol to disinfect.
- Gently reshape and place flat or upside down to dry.
Drying brushes upright can cause water to seep into the handle, loosening the glue.
How to Clean and Disinfect Hair Tools
What You’ll Need:
- A soft cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Microfibre cloth or cotton swabs
- Toothbrush (optional)
Instructions:
- Unplug the tool and let it cool completely.
- Remove any hair or product build-up using a toothbrush or dry cloth.
- Dip the cloth or swab in alcohol, wipe down the plates/barrel and handle.
- Allow to air dry fully before plugging in or storing.
For blow dryers, check the lint filter at the back and clean it using a small brush or vacuum attachment.
Cleaning Facial Rollers, Gua Sha, and Skincare Tools
These tools come in contact with delicate facial skin, so cleanliness is crucial.
What You’ll Need:
- Warm water
- Mild antibacterial soap or facial cleanser
- Clean towel
- Isopropyl alcohol (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse with warm water.
- Clean with soap or cleanser, massaging any ridges or curves.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Optionally, disinfect with a light alcohol spritz.
Store in a dry place, or keep in the fridge if you enjoy a cooling sensation for your skincare.
How to Clean Beauty Organisers, Mirrors, and Storage
These often go unnoticed but can collect dust, spilt product, and bacteria.
Supplies to Use:
- Dish soap
- Glass cleaner
- Disinfectant spray
- Microfibre cloths
- Cotton buds for tight corners
Tips:
- Wash plastic and acrylic with soap and warm water
- Use a damp cloth with disinfectant on drawers and trays
- Clean glass mirrors with a streak-free spray and a dry cloth
Best Practices for Secondhand Beauty Safety
1. Always inspect before you clean: Check for mould, cracks, discolouration, or residue. If it looks dodgy, don’t risk it.
2. Prioritise sealed or lightly used items: If it looks untouched and cleanable, it’s probably worth the effort.
3. Keep cleaning tools separate: Use a designated brush-cleaning bowl, drying rack, and cloths to avoid contamination.
4. Clean before and after first use: Even if you cleaned it once after buying, give it another light cleanse before use.
Final Thoughts: Clean It, Don’t Bin It
Sanitising secondhand beauty tools might sound tedious at first, but it’s a small investment for a big payoff. With just a bit of effort, you can extend the life of tools, reduce waste, and build a brilliant beauty routine on a budget.
Whether you scored a vintage mirror, a set of brushes, or a high-end hair tool for a steal, don’t let doubt keep it in a drawer. Clean it, test it, and enjoy the satisfaction of making smart, sustainable choices in your beauty journey.
