How to Clean and Care for Your Hair Accessories: Clips, Ties, and Brushes

Quick Answer

To keep your hair accessories in top shape, clean them regularly with mild soap and water, dry them thoroughly, and store them properly. Focus on removing product buildup and oils from clips, ties, and brushes to extend their life and maintain hygiene.

Your favorite claw clips, hair ties, and brushes work hard every day, but they also collect oils, product residue, and dust. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking fresh but also prevents buildup from transferring back to your hair, which can weigh it down or cause irritation.

The good news: you don't need fancy products. With a few simple supplies and a little time, you can keep your accessories in great condition for years. Here's how to clean and care for each type.

Why Cleaning Your Hair Accessories Matters

Over time, hair accessories accumulate natural oils, styling products, and dead skin cells. If left unchecked, this buildup can make clips slip, ties lose their grip, and brushes distribute dirt back into clean hair. Regular cleaning prevents this and keeps your tools working as intended.

For those with sensitive scalps or allergies, dirty accessories can also harbor bacteria or irritants. A quick weekly rinse or monthly deep clean is a simple habit that pays off in both performance and hygiene.

• Clean claw clips and hair ties every 1-2 weeks if used daily.
• Brushes benefit from a monthly deep clean to remove trapped hair and residue.

How to Clean Claw Clips

Claw clips, especially those with multiple teeth like the Keep it Classic Jumbo Claw Clip, can trap product and oil between the teeth. To clean them, fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Submerge the clips and let them soak for 5-10 minutes.

Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub between the teeth and around the hinges. Rinse thoroughly under running water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Let them air-dry completely before storing to prevent mold or mildew.

Avoid using hot water or harsh chemicals, as they can weaken the plastic or damage the finish. If your clip has a metal spring, be extra careful not to submerge it for too long; a quick soak is fine, but prolonged exposure can cause rust.

• Never use abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface.
• Check for any signs of cracking or weakening plastic and replace if damaged.

How to Care for Hair Ties

Hair ties, whether spiral coils or traditional elastics, benefit from gentle washing. For spiral ties like the Coil Crush Hair Ties, hand wash in warm soapy water, working the soap through the coils to remove oil and product. Rinse well and squeeze out excess water—don't twist or wring, as that can damage the shape.

For fabric-covered ties, use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which can break down elastic. Lay them flat to dry, away from direct heat. This helps retain their stretch and prevents premature wear.

If your ties have lost their elasticity or are starting to fray, it's time to replace them. Worn ties can snag hair and cause breakage, so it's better to retire them early.

• Rotate your hair ties to extend their lifespan.
• Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent rubber from perishing.

How to Clean Hair Brushes

Hair brushes accumulate hair, oil, and styling product, which can make them less effective and unhygienic. Start by removing as much hair as possible with a comb or your fingers. Then, fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of shampoo or gentle soap.

Dip the brush bristles into the water, but avoid submerging the entire brush if it has a wooden or cushioned base—soaking can damage the glue or wood. Use a toothbrush to scrub between bristles and the base. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel, then place it bristle-down on a towel to air-dry.

For brushes with synthetic bristles, you can be a bit more generous with water, but still avoid soaking the entire brush. Always check the manufacturer's instructions if available.

• Clean brushes at least once a month, more often if you use heavy styling products.
• Don't use a hairdryer to speed up drying, as heat can warp the bristles.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

1. Gather supplies: You'll need mild dish soap or shampoo, a small bowl, warm water, an old toothbrush, and a clean towel. Having everything ready makes the process quick and easy.
2. Soak clips and ties: Submerge claw clips and hair ties in warm soapy water for 5-10 minutes to loosen buildup. For brushes, just dip the bristles. Don't soak brushes with wooden handles or cushioned bases for too long.
3. Scrub gently: Use the toothbrush to clean between clip teeth, along coil spirals, and between brush bristles. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent damage.
4. Dry completely: Pat with a towel and air-dry on a clean surface. For brushes, place bristle-down to allow water to drain. Ensure everything is fully dry before storing to prevent mold.
5. Store properly: Keep clips and ties in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. Store brushes upright or in a holder to protect bristles. Proper storage extends the life of your accessories.

Product Facts

• Keep it Classic Jumbo Claw Clip For Thick or Curly Hair: Features a unique double row of teeth to firmly hold more hair than a traditional clip. Made from 30% recycled plastic. The double rows mean more surface area for product buildup, so regular cleaning between the teeth is essential to maintain its firm hold.
• Coil Crush Hair Ties For Most Hair Types: Designed to reduce denting and tension while providing an all-day hold. Keeping the spirals clean ensures they glide smoothly and maintain their gentle grip without pulling hair.

Regular cleaning and proper care will keep your hair accessories looking great and working well for a long time. By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you'll protect your hair from buildup and ensure your favorite tools are always ready to use.