How to Clean a Mascara Tube?

The correct way to clean a Mascara Tube is to first thoroughly disassemble the brush and tube, soak them in warm water (around 40℃) for 10 minutes, then use a neutral detergent and a fine brush to repeatedly clean the inner wall, and finally disinfect with 75% alcohol and let it air dry completely.

Only by completing these three steps—disassembly and cleaning + deep cleaning + disinfection and drying—can residual mascara and bacteria be effectively removed, preventing secondary contamination or health risks during reuse.

Why is it essential to thoroughly clean mascara tubes?

Mascara tubes are cosmetic containers that frequently come into contact with the eyes. According to multiple cosmetic safety studies:

• Approximately 60% of mascaras used for more than 3 months may show bacterial growth;
• Common bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli;
• The inside of a mascara tube, due to its long-term dampness and sealed environment, becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

If you plan to reuse the Mascara Tube (for DIY eyelash growth serum, filling it with essence, crafts, etc.), thorough cleaning is crucial; otherwise, it may lead to conjunctivitis or eye infections.

Detailed Steps for Cleaning Mascara Tubes

Disassembling the Mascara Tube

First, completely disassemble the mascara tube:

• Unscrew the brush head
• Remove the applicator stopper (inner stopper)
• Separate the brush handle from the tube

Many people neglect cleaning the applicator stopper, but it's often where the most residue accumulates. Data shows that over 40% of mascara residue gets stuck in the applicator.

Soak in warm water to soften residual mascara

Prepare warm water at approximately 40℃ (do not exceed 50℃ to avoid plastic deformation), and soak the mascara tube and brush head for 10–15 minutes.

Principle:
The main components of mascara are wax and oil. Warm water softens the wax base, helping for a more thorough cleanse. For waterproof mascaras, add a small amount of dish soap or neutral hand soap to improve oil removal.

Thoroughly clean the inner wall with a fine brush.

Recommended tools:

• Drip brush
• Test tube brush
• Fine cotton swabs

Key cleaning areas:

• Deposits at the bottom of the tube
• Flow control opening
• Bristle roots

Generally, brush repeatedly 2-3 times until the water that flows out is completely clear and colorless.

Alcohol disinfection is essential.

After cleaning, rinse or soak with 75% medical alcohol for 3-5 minutes.

Reason:
75% concentration is the medically recognized optimal sterilization ratio. It can kill most common bacteria and fungi. It prevents infection during reuse.

Note: Do not use excessively high concentrations of alcohol (such as 95%), as this will reduce the sterilization effect.

Let it air dry completely before use.

Invert the mascara tube in a well-ventilated and dry place to air dry naturally for at least 24 hours.

Avoid:
Using a hairdryer at high heat to dry (may cause plastic aging).
Filling in liquid directly before it is completely dry.
Residual moisture is one of the main causes of bacterial regrowth.

Common Mistakes in Cleaning Mascara Tubes

Many people simply rinse them with water and call it a day, which is far from sufficient.

Incorrect methods include:

• Cleaning only the brush head, not the inside of the tube.
• Not removing the flow-limiting cap.
• Reusing the mascara tube without sterilizing it.
• Boiling it in hot water (causing deformation and releasing a plastic odor).

If the mascara tube has been used for more than 6 months and the inside is severely clumped, it is actually recommended to discard it directly. The cost is only a few dollars, but it avoids eye risks.

What can you do with a cleaned mascara tube?

A thoroughly cleaned mascara tube has many uses, such as:

• Making your own eyelash serum container.
• Using it to hold eyebrow growth serum.
• Travel travel-sized bottles.
• DIY craft tools.
• Small-capacity serum sample bottles.

Data shows that more and more beauty enthusiasts are starting to reuse empty mascara tubes, which is both environmentally friendly and economical.

How often should you clean or replace your mascara tube?

Professional Advice:

• Normal Mascara Use: Replace every 3 months.
• Before Reusing an Empty Tube: Thoroughly clean and disinfect.
• If an odor or severe clumping occurs: Discontinue use immediately.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that eye makeup products not be used beyond their 90-day shelf life; this is an important standard for preventing infection.

Cleaning a mascara tube is not complicated, but proper procedures are essential:

• Disassemble the tube.
• Soak in warm water.
• Clean with a fine brush.
• Disinfect with alcohol.
• Let it air dry completely.

Only by following these five steps can you safely reuse a mascara tube.

If your goal is environmentally friendly reuse or DIY beauty products, thorough cleaning is the first and most crucial step. Eye health is far more important than saving an empty tube.