Thread: Using Old Brushes

Originally Posted by Theseus

I am usually pretty wary about using vinegar in applications such a s these. While it does kill most bacterias, vinegar is also known to be a prime habitat for several types of ring worm, including the aptly named vinegar worm.

Never had a problem with 'worms' in the white vinegar. The brush is washed afterwards. YMMV

Here is a web-site that can give you an idea on the many uses of vinegar. I have been using vinegar for many years on about a half dozen or so of the listed uses.
http://www.angelfire.com/cantina/homemaking/vinegar.html

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

I understand vinegars cleansing properties, but will it hurt the hair in any way? Such as bleaching it out, ruining glue that binds the knot, etc.

BTW, what does the borax do?

The vinegar has never changed the brushes for me. I would say that even only an hour in the solution would do. Sometimes I leave it in a little longer.
Once a month, I dip my "daily" use brush in a vinegar mixture for about 10 minutes, rinse good. No problems.

I didn't read the vinegar link, but I know it has a wealth of uses. There are many guys who will soak auto parts in it as a rust remover. It can do wonders!

I would be worried about the long term effects of Vinegar on the knot and on the bristles as I've seen high grade vinegar eat through asphalt. But, as I write that out, I imagine that the base nature of soap would neutralize the vinegar so no worries.

Here are a couple pics of the brushes just as I got them.

Peace,
Jim








The one on the left says KLENZO, B 75, M U.S.A., Sterilized, Pure Bristle, 150

Both seem to have a lot of use left in them. I would use a tooth brush and tooth paste on them, the go to the antibiotic dish soap, distilled white vinegar solution- 1 hour, the dish soap again with a good rinse.

I found this badger brush at an antiques market. It appears hardly used.

Looks like a good one!!

Is there any way to determine what an old brush is made from? Boar, Badger, etc.?

Originally Posted by Mendicant

I found this badger brush at an antiques market. It appears hardly used.

Looks great!

It will usually say on the butt end.

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

It will usually say on the butt end.

So...what does this mean?
http://straightrazorpalace.com/brush...tml#post862244

Because as I read it, one's pure...pure what? and the other can't reproduce!

Thanks!
Jim