New Hampshire Barber Practice Exam

What is the proper way to clean a hairbrush?

1. Rinse with water only

2. Remove hair and wash with antibacterial soap

3. Use a spray cleaner

4. Soak in vinegar

The correct answer is: Remove hair and wash with antibacterial soap

The proper way to clean a hairbrush involves removing any hair that has accumulated in the bristles and then washing the brush with antibacterial soap. This method ensures that both the bristles and the base of the brush are cleaned effectively. Removing hair is crucial because trapped hair can harbor bacteria and other impurities. Washing the brush with antibacterial soap helps to eliminate germs and oils that can build up over time, ensuring the brush remains hygienic for future use on clients' or your own hair. This method is widely recommended in barbering and cosmetology because it combines both mechanical and chemical cleaning. Other methods may not achieve the same level of cleanliness. Rinsing with water only does not effectively remove oils or bacteria that might be present. Using a spray cleaner might not provide a deep cleaning and often requires proper rinsing afterward to avoid residue. Soaking in vinegar may help with certain types of brushes but might not be appropriate or effective for all materials and can harm some brush types. Thus, washing with antibacterial soap after removing hair is the most effective approach for proper hairbrush maintenance.