I just acquired a Kent BK2 brush, the first quality brush I've had. Is it better not to soak it but only to run water over, or does it matter? Thanks for any advice in caring for this great brush.
Kent BK2
- Thread starter Adelio
- Start date
I've never been one to soak any brush. I've always had excellent results by just holding the brush under hot running water for a few seconds. If I need to warm the brush up I just run it under the hot running water again, but run the water right where the knot is attached to the handle. This works just fine, and I've never had any problems with any brush.
I've always soaked my brushes because that's generally been the advice here. Some soak them for 10-15 minutes while they shower....I've never soaked mine that long. I soak them for a few minutes while I wash my face before I start to build my lather. If you like just running it under hot water in the tap, I think that's fine as well. I don't see either as right or wrong...just personal preference.
I think the most important thing is that you get your brush really dry after you are done. I shake mine out really well and then gently brush the tips back and forth over my towel to get as much moisture off the bristles as I can. Then I set it on the counter where it can get plenty of air to dry all the way down to the knot. If you can rotate and give your brush 48 hours to dry out, even better. However, after 24 hours of drying I have never been able to detect any residual dampness in my brush, but I live in a fairly dry area of the country. YMMV.
I think the most important thing is that you get your brush really dry after you are done. I shake mine out really well and then gently brush the tips back and forth over my towel to get as much moisture off the bristles as I can. Then I set it on the counter where it can get plenty of air to dry all the way down to the knot. If you can rotate and give your brush 48 hours to dry out, even better. However, after 24 hours of drying I have never been able to detect any residual dampness in my brush, but I live in a fairly dry area of the country. YMMV.
This. Just while splashing water onto my face before lathering.
Just don't soak them in anything you wouldn't comfortably hold your hand under and you should be fine.
I just received my BK8 and I find that running the water at the knot works weel. This brush makes great lather, but it kinda eats up the soap. It's also a pretty big headed brush. I don't see it becoming my go to, but I will keep it in the rotation.
You can soak a little if you want to, but running it under water is fine too. If I soak my BK12, the water table in New Hampshire drops.
Kent badgers are known to be quite soft and absorbent. You'll enjoy yours for many years.
I'm a shower soaker, just for the record. Shorter soak generally equals greater backbone and potential for scritch. Something to consider...
