Freshen Up Your Beauty Routine This Spring

Spring is here, and there’s no better time to declutter, disinfect, and refresh every corner of your life—including your beauty routine. While you’re cracking open the windows, organizing shelves, and deep-cleaning your home, don’t forget to give your personal care items a little extra attention.

Colds and coughs may linger as winter fades, and germs still find their way onto doorknobs, phones, and yes—even your beauty products. Without careful handling, your favorite makeup and skincare items can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Luckily, a few intentional steps can help you keep germs out of your products, extend their lifespan, and ensure they stay safe to use.

Here are some simple tips to spring clean your beauty stash and keep it germ-free all season long.

1. Wash Your Hands Like a Pro

You’d be surprised how many germs our hands pick up during the day. Surfaces like light switches, keyboards, and your phone act as hotspots for bacteria. Every time you touch your beauty products with unwashed hands, you transfer some of those germs right into the formulas you’re about to apply.

Make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly before using makeup, lotions, or skincare products. A quick hand wash can make a major difference in reducing contamination and keeping both you and your products healthy.

2. Use Spatulas, Not Fingers

You wouldn’t dip a dirty spoon into a freshly cleaned jar of jam, right? Think of your body butter or liquid foundation the same way! Instead of reaching directly into jars with your fingers, use a clean plastic spatula to scoop out what you need.

This tiny change creates a barrier between your hands and your beauty products, helping prevent bacteria from sneaking in. Plus, this added care will extend the life of your products, keeping them fresher for longer.

3. Apply With Care

Got a favorite concealer? It’s probably your go-to for zapping dark circles or covering blemishes. But applying it straight from the wand to your skin could turn your concealer tube into a microorganism magnet. Even freshly cleansed skin has its own natural bacteria, and when you touch that wand to your face, you risk transferring germs back into the tube.

Instead, swipe concealer onto a clean makeup brush or the back of your hand before applying. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in keeping your products free of unwanted bacteria.

4. Clean Those Beauty Tools

When was the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes or replaced your sponges? If you’re scratching your head trying to remember, it’s time to get scrubbing.

Dirty brushes and sponges can trap oils, old product, and bacteria over time. Experts recommend washing your brushes at least once a month. Use a gentle cleanser, like baby shampoo, to break down buildup without damaging bristles. Afterward, rinse thoroughly and lay the brushes flat on a clean surface to air dry.

For sponge users, consider replacing them regularly, as these can be harder to clean thoroughly. And if manual cleaning feels like a chore, look into electric brush cleaners that wash and dry your tools in minutes.

5. Do a Spring Inventory

Spring cleaning isn’t just about scrubbing—it’s also the perfect time to organize and declutter. Go through your beauty collection and check expiration dates on products. Toss anything that smells off, seems discolored, or has passed its prime. This not only helps create space but also ensures you’re not using products that could irritate your skin or carry germs.

Protect Your Skin, Your Products, and Your Health

A sparkling home isn’t the only benefit of spring cleaning. By taking time to freshen up your beauty routine, you’ll enjoy products that last longer, work better, and stay safe to use. Plus, you’re safeguarding your skin from harmful bacteria in the process.

This spring, make germ-free beauty a priority. With clean tools, organized products, and fresh habits, you’ll start the season looking and feeling your absolute best!