How to Clean a Dirty Hair Comb

Few people think about cleaning their combs on a regular basis. The need for it isn’t as obvious to the naked eye as it is when your hair needs a good shampooing.

But oil, dust, germs and hair product residue builds up on combs over time, just like it does on your hair.

Using a dirty comb means the oil and dirt on it will transfer back to your hair. This is not good for your hair and scalp health, and it can lead to scalp infection, dandruff, hair loss, and other issues.

For your hair hygiene, it is essential to clean your dirty hair combs thoroughly once a week. It just takes a few minutes.

Steps to Clean a Dirty Hair Comb

Things you’ll need:

• Few dirty hair combs
• Shampoo
• A toothbrush
• A small tub
• Organic tea tree essential oil
• A towel
• Toothpicks
• Warm water

Step 1. Remove loose hair and dust

Remove any loose hair and dirt that you can with your hands. Then, use a tissue to remove extra oil and dust.

Step 2. Put dirty combs in a tub

Put all your dirty combs in a tub that is large enough for them to completely submerge in water.

Step 3. Fill the tub with lukewarm water

Fill the tub with lukewarm water. Do not use extremely hot or boiling water.

Step 4. Add shampoo

Add a little shampoo to it and stir thoroughly.

Step 5. Soak the combs for 20-30 minutes

Leave the combs submerged in water for 20 to 30 minutes to soften the dirt and other residue trapped between the teeth of the combs.

Step 6. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the dirt off

Take out one of the combs and scrub it thoroughly with an old toothbrush to remove the dirt and greasy residue. Make sure to scrub each and every tooth of the comb.

Repeat the process with each comb.

Step 7. Use a toothpick to remove stubborn dirt

Use a toothpick to remove any stubborn dirt that doesn’t come off with the toothbrush scrub. It takes some extra time, but it’s worth the effort.

Step 8. Rinse the combs with clean water

When you are satisfied with your cleaning, rinse your combs with clean water.

Step 9. Soak the combs in tea tree oil solution

Discard the dirty water from the tub and refill it with clean water.

Mix in a few drops of tea tree oil, a natural disinfectant. Leave all the combs in the water for 5 minutes.

Step 10. Leave the combs to air dry

Remove the combs from the water and put them on a towel to air dry.

Once dry, your clean combs are ready to use.

Additional Tips

• Remove hair stuck in your comb immediately after combing your hair.
• If you have a bottle of clarifying shampoo, use it to clean your combs. This type of shampoo is particularly effective at removing oily buildup and residue.
• Store the old toothbrush separately from other toothbrushes, so you or your family members don’t accidentally use it to brush your teeth.
• When going for a haircut or styling, always make sure that your stylist uses a clean comb.
• You can always carry your comb and ask your stylist to use it.