Quick answer: pull the hair out of the pins, brush away dust with a dry soft toothbrush, and wipe the wood with a dry cloth. Do it once a week. Never soak a wooden brush or leave it wet, because water is what cracks wood and loosens pins.
What you need
- A wide tooth comb or your fingers
- A dry, soft toothbrush
- A dry, soft cloth
How to clean a wooden brush, step by step
- Remove the hair. Slide a comb under the hair caught in the pins and lift it out. Do this every few days so it never builds up.
- Brush out the dust. Run a dry soft toothbrush between the rows of pins and around the cushion.
- Wipe the wood. Go over the handle, back and pins with a dry cloth.
- Let it breathe. Store it pins up, somewhere dry and out of a steamy bathroom if you can.
Cleaning a wooden comb and scalp massager
Same rules, even simpler. Run the toothbrush between the comb's teeth, wipe with a dry cloth, and store it dry. For a massager, wipe each finger with a dry cloth after use. Folding travel combs should be stored open now and then so the hinge stays dry.
How often should you clean it?
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Remove hair from the pins | Every few days |
| Dry toothbrush and cloth clean | Once a week |
| Check pins and cushion | Once a month |
What never to do
- Never soak or rinse it. Water swells the wood and can loosen the pins and cushion.
- Never put it in the dishwasher.
- Do not leave it in the shower. Steam and splashes do slow damage.
- Do not dry it with a hair dryer or on a radiator. Fast heat can crack wood.
Signs it is time for a new brush
Pins that are chipped, rough or missing, or a cushion that has split. Rough tips catch and snap hair, so do not keep using a damaged brush. Our sandalwood brush has polished, rounded pins on an air cushion. If a HairGuard tool arrives damaged or faulty, email us within 14 days of delivery with a photo and we send a free replacement. No return needed.
Questions people ask
Can I wash a wooden brush with soap and water?
We do not recommend it. Water is the main thing that damages wood. A dry toothbrush and cloth keep it clean without the risk.
Why does my wooden brush feel dry or dull?
Wood can dull over time. Keeping it dry and wiped is the best care. Never soak it to bring it back.
How long does a wooden brush last?
With dry care, a well made wooden brush can last a long time. Replace it if the pins or cushion are damaged.
Can I use a wooden brush on wet hair?
Now and then on damp hair is fine. Wipe it dry afterward and avoid using it on soaking wet hair.
Starting fresh? See the HairGuard sandalwood sets, each with a brush and a scalp massager.