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How Do I Choose the Best Bath Brushes?

By Judith Smith Sullivan
Updated: May 17, 2024

There are many types of bath brushes. The best choice for you will meets your aesthetic and practical needs while fitting into your budget. The bath brush should also be well made. Depending on your preferences, you may also want a brush made from natural materials by an ecologically responsible manufacturer. Brushes are available from a variety of retailers, ranging from big box department stores to specialized online boutiques.

Before you begin shopping, determine what you need in a bath brush. If you plan to use it all over your body, you'll need a long handled brush for ease of use. These can be somewhat cumbersome, so there are also round and oval brushes with a strap that slips over your hand, as well as short handled brushes.

There are also bath brushes that are designed to exfoliate the face. These are typically smaller and made from finer bristles to accommodate delicate skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may find that natural bristles are less likely to cause an allergic reaction than synthetic bristles.

Next, decide how much money you are willing to spend. Synthetic brushes are sometimes cheaper than natural bristle brushes, but the style and brand are really the determining factors. Some natural bristles brushes are very expensive, but they are also of higher quality. Decide on an amount which you are comfortable with and stick to that number. Don't forget that if you purchase a brush online, you will also have to pay shipping and handling.

Bath brushes can be made from either natural or synthetic materials. Synthetic brushes are usually made of plastic. Natural bristles are usually made from boar or goat hair, hemp, loofah or sisal. The handles on natural brushes are usually wooden. Both types of brushes come in a variety of textures and thicknesses.

The best way to judge the quality of bath brushes is to inspect them in person. The bristles should be thick, evenly spaced, and firmly secured to the base. If you find that the brush sheds bristles, it's poorly made. A wooden handle should be sanded smooth to prevent cracking and splintering, and a removable handle is a nice feature for traveling or when you simply don't need the extra length.

If you must order a brush without handling it, make sure the company offers a generous return policy. It should guarantee workmanship and offer at least a ten day return period. If possible, find a manufacturer that offers free shipping both ways.

WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By SarahGen — On Jun 12, 2014

I wanted an environmentally friendly bath brush so I ended up getting one with a bamboo handle and recycled synthetic bristles. Moreover, the brand donates a part of their sales to projects that help protect the environment. So I feel like a responsible citizen even while bathing!

By bear78 — On Jun 11, 2014

@stoneMason-- First of all, make sure that the bath brush has a long handle so that you can reach your back properly. As for the bristles, I think synthetic bristles will be okay but try to buy in person so that you can check the softness of the bristles in person. I agree with you. It's best for you to use a brush with bristles that have medium hardness. If the bristles are too soft, they won't exfoliate and if they're too hard, them might irritate your skin.

I also recommend a brush with bristles that dry quickly. You don't want to use a bacteria filled brush on skin with acne. Brushes that remain moist for a long time harbor bacteria. And regardless of which brush you get, hang it up in an airy area after use to allow it to dry more quickly.

By stoneMason — On Jun 11, 2014

I'm looking for a bath brush that I can use to exfoliate my back in the shower because I suffer from back acne. I need something that exfoliates well, but the bristles should not irritate the acne spots. I certainly don't want bleeding or infection.

Which type of brush is best for this? Should I buy a brush with natural bristles or synthetic bristles?

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