Today Hongxin packaging will share you how to clean lip gloss tubes.

Maintaining a clean lip gloss tube is essential for hygiene, product longevity, and even repurposing empty containers. Whether you’re refreshing a partially used tube or preparing it for a DIY project, proper cleaning prevents bacteria buildup, preserves product quality, and ensures safety. Below is a detailed, professional guide to cleaning lip gloss tubes effectively, along with tips for different materials and scenarios.  

1. Gather Supplies

Before starting, collect these items:  

- Gentle Soap: Mild dish soap or baby shampoo (avoid harsh chemicals that may degrade plastic).  

- Warm Water: For rinsing and dissolving residue.  

- Small Brushes: A soft-bristled toothbrush, baby bottle brush, or cotton swabs for hard-to-reach areas.  

- Paper Towels or Microfiber Cloths: For drying.  

- Toothpicks or Q-Tips: For scraping stubborn residue (use gently to avoid damaging the tube).  

 

2. Empty and Remove Excess Product 

  -Plastics Soft Tubes:  

  - Squeeze the tube to push out remaining lip gloss. Use a toothpick or spatula to scrape residue from the sides and bottom.  

 - Rigid Tubes (Glass or Hard Plastic):  

  - Unscrew the cap and use a small spoon or spatula to scoop out leftover product. For sticky formulas, warm the tube briefly under hot water (10–15 seconds) to loosen the gloss. 

 

3. Wash the outside of tube 

Step 1: Wipe Down the Outside 

- Dampen a cloth with soapy water and wipe the tube’s exterior, including the cap, threads, and any crevices.  

- Stubborn Stains: Use a soft toothbrush to scrub sticky residue (e.g., from labels or spilled product).  

- Label Removal: If peeling off a label, apply cooking oil or adhesive remover (like Goo Gone) to dissolve glue, then wipe with a cloth.  

Step 2: Clean and Dry  

- Rinse the exterior with warm water to remove soap residue.  

- Dry thoroughly with a paper towel or let air-dry to prevent water spots.  

 

4. Clean the inside of tube

For Removable Applicators (Wands or Brushes) 

- Detach the Applicator: Unscrew or pull out the wand (if possible).  

- Wash the Applicator: Lather with soap and warm water, gently brushing bristles or sponge tips. Rinse until no residue remains, then air-dry.  

- Clean the inside of Tube:  

  1. Fill the tube ⅓ full with warm soapy water.  

  2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to dislodge residue.  

  3. Use a baby bottle brush or cotton swab to scrub the inside, especially the neck and base.  

  4. Rinse with warm water until soap is fully removed. Repeat if needed.  

 

For Non-Removable Applicators (Integrated Wands) 

Flush with Soap and Water:  

  1. Suck soapy water into the tube using the applicator, then squeeze it out. Repeat 2–3 times.  

  2. Use a toothpick wrapped in a damp cloth to scrub the inside of the tube near the opening.  

  3. Rinse by sucking and expelling clean water until clear.  

 

Glass or Metal Tubes  

- Sanitize with Alcohol: After washing, fill the tube with rubbing alcohol, shake for 10 seconds, then rinse with water. This kills bacteria and removes oily residue.  

 

5. Disinfect for Hygiene  

Alcohol Spray or Wipe 

- Spray a 70% alcohol solution inside and outside the tube, including the cap and applicator. Wipe with a clean cloth.  

- Soaking Method: For detachable parts, soak in a bowl of alcohol for 5 minutes, then air-dry.  

 

Boiling Water (For Heat-Resistant Tubes) 

- Glass or Stainless Steel Tubes Only:  

 - Boil water in a pot, remove from heat, and submerge the tube (without the applicator) for 2–3 minutes.  

  - Use tongs to remove and air-dry. Avoid plastic tubes, as heat may warp them.  

6. Dry Thoroughly

- Air-Drying: Place the tube and applicator upside down on a clean towel to allow water to drain.  

- Sunlight: Leave in direct sunlight for 1–2 hours (natural UV rays help disinfect).  

- Important: Ensure no moisture remains inside, as water can cause mold or dilute new product.  

 

7. Reuse or Repurpose 

Refilling with New Product 

- Once fully dry, fill the tube with fresh lip gloss, balm, or a DIY mixture (e.g., coconut oil + pigment).  

- Tip: Use a small funnel or dropper to avoid spills.