In today’s world of cleaning hacks, there’s always something new to try. One viral method that recently gained attention was microwaving makeup sponges to clean them. However, the results were disappointing, leaving many to question whether this hack is truly worth trying.
The Microwave Cleaning Method
To try out the hack, the process seemed simple enough. Start by rinsing the beauty blender under cool running water to remove excess makeup. After the initial rinse, prepare a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Place the beauty blender in the soapy water-filled mug, then microwave the setup for one minute.
The expectation was that the hot water would lift the grime and sanitize the sponge in the process. However, according to the test, this is where things started to go wrong. Even after microwaving the sponge, it remained dirty, showing no significant improvement in cleanliness.
Still Storing Watermelon Like This? Here’s Why It Goes Bad Way Too Fast
What Happens if You Use Boiling Water?
While microwaving the beauty blender, the water became dangerously hot, making the process harder to manage. The sponge absorbed the hot water inside, which made it difficult to handle safely without risking burns.
Even after allowing it to cool, some heat remained trapped inside, adding to the difficulty of handling it. The author notes that while this hack might seem like a quick fix, the boiling water could cause more harm than good, potentially damaging the sponge in the process.
Other Methods for Cleaner Sponges
In comparison, more traditional methods, such as using baby shampoo to clean makeup tools, are not only safer but also more effective. The tested approach, which involves gently rubbing the sponge with shampoo and rinsing it under cold water, delivers results without the risks associated with hot water.
Many experts like dermatologists Dr. Shereene Idriss and makeup artist Lisa Eldridge recommend this method as a standard for regular maintenance of makeup sponges. Tools like silicone cleaning pads designed specifically for makeup tools can offer a more thorough clean with minimal effort.
Why This Hack Didn’t Work?
The problem with the microwave cleaning hack may lie in the sponge’s composition and how it interacts with the high heat from the microwave. Makeup sponges are often made from soft, absorbent materials that may not handle intense heat well, causing them to retain water and makeup in ways that hinder proper cleaning. Also, the quick nature of the hack doesn’t allow for the necessary scrubbing action required to truly cleanse the sponge, leaving it looking almost as dirty as before.
