How to Clean a shaving brush

Plowden & Fallow’s Ludlow Faux Ivory Shaving Brush and Stand.

At Plowden & Fallow, we understand the importance of a luxurious and effective shaving experience. One often-overlooked aspect of this ritual is the proper care and maintenance of your shaving brush. Whether you're a seasoned grooming aficionado or just starting out, keeping your brush in pristine condition should help ensure a consistently smooth and luxurious lather. In this blog post, we'll briefly discuss both daily cleaning and a more thorough, periodic cleaning routine for your brush.

Cleaning After Each Use:

The key to maintaining the longevity and performance of your shaving brush is to clean it after every use. Residual shaving cream, soap, and whiskers can accumulate over time, leading to a decline in brush performance and hygiene. Follow these simple steps for a quick post-shave cleaning:

1. Rinse Thoroughly: Immediately after use, rinse the shaving brush well under warm, running water. This will remove the majority of shaving cream or soap residue.

2. Shake Off Excess Water: Gently shake the brush to remove excess water. Be careful not to be too vigorous, as this can damage the bristles.

3. Pat Dry with a Towel: Pat the brush dry with a clean, dry towel. Again, avoid excessive force, as this could cause bristle damage.

4. Reshape the Bristles: Use your fingers to reshape the bristles into their original form. This helps maintain the brush's overall structure.

5. Store correctly: Correctly storing your brush between shaves is important. Ideally utilise a shaving stand, allowing the bristles of the brush to hang down, suspended in the air. Not only will this help dry the brush, but it will also aid in preserving its shape. Plowden & Fallow’s Shaving Stand can be found by CLICKING HERE.

Deeper Clean – A Periodic Ritual:

In addition to the daily cleaning routine, a deeper clean should be performed periodically to eliminate any accumulated residue that may be lurking deep within the bristles. This ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your shaving brush. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare a Gentle Cleanser: Mix a small amount of liquid soap with warm water in a bowl. The gentle cleanser found in many soaps should aid in effectively breaking down any stubborn residue.

2. Soak the Brush: Submerge the shaving brush in the soapy water, making sure the bristles are fully immersed. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen any trapped debris.

3. Gentle Lathering: Swirl the brush in the soapy water, creating a gentle lather. This helps to work the cleanser through the bristles.

4. Rinse and Repeat: Rinse the brush thoroughly under warm running water, ensuring all soap and residue are removed. Repeat the process if necessary.

5. Shake and Pat Dry: Shake off excess water and pat the brush dry with a clean towel. Reshape the bristles with your fingers.

6. Air Dry: Place the shaving brush on a stand with the bristles facing down to allow proper air circulation. Avoid leaving it in a closed or damp environment, as this can lead to mold growth.

By incorporating these cleaning rituals into your shaving routine, you'll not only enhance the performance of your Plowden & Fallow shaving brush but also help ensure a more hygienic shaving experience.

To read our guide on how to clean a razor please CLICK HERE.

Yours faithfully,

Plowden & Fallow