How to Clean a Scrub Brush: Keep It Hygienic and Effective

Scrub brushes work hard on your dirtiest surfaces — grout, tile, sinks, and pots — which means they accumulate bacteria, soap scum, and debris rapidly. A dirty scrub brush spreads grime rather than removing it. Regular cleaning keeps your brushes hygienic and extends their life significantly.

What You'll Need

• Iberia Distilled White Vinegar, 1 Gallon — natural disinfectant soak that removes soap scum and kills bacteria
• Leader Hydrogen Peroxide 3% Spray Bottle (2-Pack) — for disinfecting brushes used on bathroom surfaces
• Nutricost Baking Soda (2 lbs) — for deodorizing and deep cleaning bristles
• Mild dish soap
• Old comb or stiff brush (for removing debris from bristles)
• Hot water

How Often Should You Clean Scrub Brushes?

• After every use: Rinse thoroughly and shake out excess water; store bristle-side down or hanging to dry
• Weekly: Full disinfecting soak
• Replace: When bristles are splayed, worn flat, or retain odor after cleaning

Step 1: Remove Debris After Every Use

1. Rinse the brush under hot running water immediately after use
2. Use an old comb or your fingers to pull any trapped debris from the bristles
3. Shake vigorously to remove excess water
4. Store bristle-side down or hang so air circulates around the bristles — never store bristle-side up in a cup where water pools at the base

Method 1: White Vinegar Soak (Best for General Cleaning)

1. Fill a bowl or jar with undiluted white vinegar
2. Submerge the brush bristles completely
3. Let soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour
4. Rinse thoroughly under hot water
5. Shake out and allow to dry completely

The acidity of vinegar dissolves soap scum, mineral deposits, and kills most bacteria. Ideal for kitchen brushes and general-purpose scrub brushes.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide Disinfection (Best for Bathroom Brushes)

1. Rinse the brush under hot water first
2. Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide generously over the bristles
3. Let sit for 10 minutes
4. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry

Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria, mold, and mildew — ideal for brushes used on toilet, grout, and bathroom tile.

Method 3: Baking Soda Deep Clean (Best for Odors)

1. Wet the brush bristles
2. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the bristles
3. Work the baking soda into the bristles with your fingers
4. Let sit 15 minutes
5. Rinse thoroughly under hot water
6. Follow with a vinegar soak for maximum cleaning

Method 4: Dishwasher (For Dishwasher-Safe Brushes)

Many plastic-handled scrub brushes are dishwasher safe:

1. Check the brush for a dishwasher-safe symbol
2. Place on the top rack
3. Run on a hot cycle
4. Allow to dry completely before storing

Proper Storage to Prevent Mildew

• Always store with bristles facing down or hanging — water drains away from the bristles rather than pooling at the base
• Store in a well-ventilated area — not in a closed cabinet while damp
• A wall-mounted brush holder or hook keeps brushes dry and accessible
• Never store multiple brushes touching each other while damp — they trap moisture between them

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get mold out of a scrub brush?

Soak in undiluted white vinegar for 1–2 hours, then scrub the bristles against each other to dislodge mold. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a hydrogen peroxide spray. If mold has penetrated the brush handle or base, replace the brush.

Can I use bleach to clean a scrub brush?

Diluted bleach (1 tablespoon per quart of water) disinfects effectively but degrades bristles faster than vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Use bleach only for heavily contaminated brushes, and rinse very thoroughly afterward.

When should I replace a scrub brush?

Replace when bristles are permanently splayed or worn flat, when the brush retains odor after cleaning, or when the handle or base shows mold that can't be removed. Most scrub brushes last 3–6 months with regular use and proper care.