How Often Should You Replace Your Hair Brush or Comb?

Just like your haircare products, your styling tools and accessories don’t last forever. Over time, hairbrushes, combs, and heat-styling tools can wear down, lose effectiveness, or even cause damage to your hair if they’re not replaced when needed. So, how do you know when to swap out your tools for new ones? We’ll cover when to replace your tools, what signs to watch for, and how to keep them performing their best.

How Often Should You Replace Hairbrushes and Combs?

Hairbrushes and combs may seem like lifelong staples, but they also need regular upkeep and eventual replacement.

1. Hairbrushes: Most experts recommend replacing your hairbrush every 6–12 months, depending on how often you use it and how well you care for it. Brushes accumulate dirt, oils, and product residue over time, which can transfer back onto your hair and scalp, leading to buildup and irritation. If the bristles are bent, broken, or starting to feel rough, it’s time to toss it. If you're ready for a new detangling brush, we recommend Cécred's Vented Paddle Brush. It's designed with widely spaced, flexible bristles that provide gentle detangling and are easy to clean. The signature honeycomb design doesn’t trap water and allows for airflow, making it a great choice for detangling in and out of the shower, and to assist in blow drying; just be mindful of placing direct heat on the flexible bristles.

2. Combs: Combs tend to last longer but should still be cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Replace your comb if it has broken or jagged teeth, as these can snag and break your hair strands. Our recommendations? Cécred's Rake Comb, Wide Tooth Comb, or Parting Tail Comb; each designed with lightweight yet high-quality teeth that easily glide through knots and tangles. Plus, the Parting Tail Comb is crafted with fiberglass and is heat resistant up to 400°F. It's safe to use with your favorite heat styling tools, like a flat iron. 

Pro Tip: Clean your brushes and combs weekly by removing trapped hair and washing them with warm water and a gentle cleanser.

When Should You Replace Heat-Styling Tools?

Hair straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers don’t last forever, even if they’re still heating up. The technology and materials in these tools can wear out, leading to uneven heat distribution that damages your hair.

Signs It’s Time to Replace a Hair Straightener or Curling Iron:

1. The plates or barrels show visible damage, such as scratches, chips, or discoloration.

2. It takes longer to heat up or doesn’t reach its original temperature.

3. You notice hot spots or inconsistent heating, which can cause uneven styling or heat damage.

4. It emits a burning smell or unusual noises during use.

How Long Do Heat Tools Last?

On average, heat-styling tools should be replaced every 2–5 years, depending on quality and frequency of use. If you style your hair daily, you might need to replace them sooner to avoid damaging your strands.

Blow Dryers: Most blow dryers last 3–7 years with regular use. Replace yours if the motor starts to make unusual sounds, the airflow weakens, or the heat becomes inconsistent.

Using worn-out tools can lead to breakage, split ends, and even scalp irritation. For example, old brushes and combs can snag and pull on your hair, while damaged heat tools can burn or dehydrate strands. To keep your hair looking its best, it’s important to check your tools regularly and replace them as needed.

While replacing your tools is necessary, proper maintenance can help them last longer:

1. Clean Brushes and Combs Weekly: Remove hair and buildup using a gentle soap or cleanser and warm water. Be sure to rinse completely before use.

2. Wipe Down Heat Tools After Each Use: Use a damp cloth to clean off product residue from plates and barrels.

3. Store Tools Properly: Keep brushes and combs in a drawer or organizer to avoid damage. Use heat-resistant mats or pouches for styling tools.

4. Check Cords and Plugs: Frayed wires can be a fire hazard—replace tools immediately if cords show signs of wear.

Replacing your hair tools at the right time is just as important as using the right haircare products. Clean, well-maintained tools not only make styling easier but also protect your hair from unnecessary damage. Whether it’s swapping out an old hairbrush every year or upgrading your flat iron after a few years of heavy use, keeping your tools in top condition helps keep your hair healthy and beautiful.