The Best Cleaning Brush

Buying Guide

Every job requires a specific set of tools. Sponges, rags and paper towels all serve a purpose. But one tool that never goes out of style is the old-fashioned cleaning brush. It may have evolved over the decades, but the basic functionality remains the same. You’ll get a handle attached to bristles, with the bristles made from materials strong enough to clean.

But there are different brushes for different uses. Your primary consideration will be the surface on which you’ll be using the brush. Some bristles are made for tackling outdoor surfaces like concrete and bricks. The same goes for carpets, which can handle harsher bristles. However, if you’re using your brush in areas like your bathroom, you’ll want to make sure the material won’t scratch your surfaces.

Another material type that needs special bristles during cleaning is cast iron. If you have pots or pans made from cast iron, you already know it needs special treatment. You can’t simply toss it in the dishwasher or hand wash it with the same cleansers you’d use with your dishes. A cast iron scrub brush is built to clean without scratching.

A second important feature in a cleaning brush is the handle. Some handles can start to hurt your hand if you’re scrubbing for a while. If you’ll be using harmful chemicals—for instance, while you’re staining a deck or bleaching caulk that has molded—make sure the handle is long enough to keep your hand far away.

Consider how you’ll clean your brush and store it between uses. You’ll need to be able to get deeply-rooted grime out after each cleaning session. After that, make sure you have a well-ventilated place to store it while it dries to avoid moisture issues. Some cleaning brushes are sold as sets to give you one for each area of your home.

• Scrub brushes aren’t just for handling those more complex cleaning tasks. They also can get into nooks and crannies that sponges and rags can’t. That makes them popular for cleaning grout between tiles, among many other uses.
• As you’re comparing brushes, look at the bristles. Many are made from nylon, but you’ll find some are stiffer than others. That harshness can become problematic if you’re working with sensitive surfaces.
• Although more flexible bristles may be safer to use on some indoor surfaces, keep in mind they may not hold up under rigorous use. You’ll need a brush that can withstand the water and chemicals you’ll be using, as well as the stress you’ll be putting them under.
• Scrubbing away stubborn problems like mold requires stiff bristles, which can leave you looking for a delicate balance if you have mold buildup on your shower or floor tiles.
• The handle of the brush plays an important role, too. Look for one that will be comfortable for holding for long time periods. An ergonomic design and rubberized grip can keep you working when you otherwise would give up due to hand fatigue.
• Another feature to prize in a brush is a handle that prevents slipping, even when the brush is wet. Classic wooden cleaning brushes had that feature, but many of today’s plastic and rubber ones need a special feature to keep slipping at a minimum.
• Some brushes have holes built into the handle for easy hanging. If you don’t already have hooks in a handy place, you can hang one in a storage closet or garage.
• Even if you usually clean your brushes after each use, occasionally disinfect it using a mixture of Borax and washing soda, along with vinegar and hot water. Soak it for five minutes before allowing it to dry on a rack.