Regularly cleaning your airbrush system is an essential part of keeping it in optimal working condition. We’re showing how to take care of your airbrush tools with the best cleaning techniques. 

How To Clean Airbrush Tools Like a Pro

CHOOSING THE RIGHT AIRBRUSH GUN CLEANER

The cleaner you use for your airbrush gun will depend on the specific makeup formula that’s in it. As a general rule, we suggest using the following cleaners for different formulations:

• For silicone-based formulas, use the S/B Airbrush Cleaner
• For alcohol-based formulas, use Alcohol 99% or 99% isopropyl alcohol
• For water-based formulas, use water

Pro Tip: When in doubt, our Alcohol 99% cleaner is always a safe choice. 

AIRBRUSH CLEANING TECHNIQUES

It’s important to keep your airbrush gun clean as you alternate between colors, projects and models. When it comes to cleaning your airbrush gun, we recommend two different approaches—a quick clean or a more thorough deep clean—depending on how pressed you are for time. 

TECHNIQUE #1: THE QUICK CLEAN

Using a cleanser based on the suggestions above, quickly clean your TEMPTU airbrush gun by following these steps:

• 

  STEP 1:

  Loosen the needle chucking nut.

• 

  STEP 2:

  Pull the needle back slightly.

• 

  STEP 3:

  Add a few drops of the cleaning fluid in the cup.

• 

  STEP 4:

  Point the airbrush gun down at an angle and place your finger over the needle cap. Next, push down and pull back on the trigger to produce a back spray effect. This will free any makeup remnants blocking the nozzle passage.

• 

  STEP 5:

  Clean the cup with a makeup brush or cotton swab.

• 

  STEP 6:

  Push the needle back in and screw and the needle chucking nut tightly. Flush with the cleanser to ensure the passage is clear. Place the handle back on the gun.

TECHNIQUE #2: THE DEEP CLEAN

Deep-cleaning your airbrush after each job is highly recommended in order to prevent problems associated with clogging. You can deep clean your airbrush gun by following the steps outlined below:

1. Disassemble your TEMPTU airbrush gun according to the model’s specifications.
2. Soak the nozzle cap, nozzle, needle cap and body in Alcohol 99% or 99% isopropyl alcohol.
3. Wipe the needle clean with Alcohol 99% or 99% isopropyl alcohol.
4. Reassemble your TEMPTU airbrush gun according to the model’s specifications.

Shop All TEMPTU Pro Airbrush Guns

Airbrush Gun Cleaning FAQs

Q: Can I use water to clean my TEMPTU airbrush gun?
A: Water is an appropriate choice when cleaning your airbrush gun after using water-based makeup formulas. While it’s safe to use a damp cloth to wipe down any airbrush gun, always avoid submerging the device in water. 

Pro Tip: Short on time? Consider purchasing our disposable Airpod Pro 3-packs instead. These airbrush cartridges can be reused up to 120 times and give makeup artists the power to mix and customize colors without having to break down and clean an airbrush gun ever again.

Q: Can I use Windex to clean my TEMPTU airbrush gun?

A: Avoid cleaning your airbrush gun with products like Windex, as you don’t want their residual chemicals interacting with your clients’ skin. 

Pro Tip: Our S/B Airbrush Cleaner is the professional choice for effortless airbrush cleaning. This specialized formula quickly and easily removes silicone-based products from your airbrush equipment as well as makeup brushes. 

Q: How often should I clean my TEMPTU airbrush gun?

A: It’s a good idea to clean your airbrush gun after each makeup application. Doing so keeps the device functioning at its best and helps prevent clogs from dried cosmetics. 

Pro Tip: When traveling for a makeup shoot, consider using the Airbrush Cleaning Set or Pro Airbrush Cleaning Pot. These lightweight and portable systems make it easy to clean your airbrush gun on the go.

Q: Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean my TEMPTU airbrush?

A: Yes! In fact, we consider 99% isopropyl alcohol an essential cleanser for any kit. Not only does it remove alcohol-based makeup from airbrush guns and makeup brushes, it can also help remove cosmetic stains from clothing. 

Pro Tip: When working with different types of makeup (e.g. silicone-based, water-based, etc.), always clean your airbrush gun thoroughly with our Alcohol 99% and let the device dry before moving on to a new formula.