How to clean a nail polish bottle in 8 easy steps

Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, as nail polish removers can emit strong fumes. Gather all the necessary tools and materials and lay down a clean cloth or paper towel to protect your work surface.

If the nail polish bottle contains old, dried-up polish, the first step is to empty it to clean it thoroughly. Unscrew the cap and carefully pour the nail polish onto a paper towel or cotton pad. Be cautious not to spill the polish, as nail polish spills can be challenging to clean and may stain surfaces.

Dip the brush into a small amount of nail polish remover or acetone. Swirl the brush around in the remover to dissolve any residue or old polish clinging to the bristles. Wipe the brush with a clean cotton ball or pad to remove excess polish. Repeat this process until the brush is entirely clean.
Next, clean the neck of the bottle with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover. The neck of the bottle is the area where the brush cap screws onto the bottle. Removing excess polish from this area will prevent the cap from sticking and ensure a smooth closure.

Fill a bowl or basin with warm, soapy water using mild dish soap. Submerge the empty nail polish bottle into the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen any remaining nail polish or grime inside the bottle.

After soaking, gently scrub the nail polish bottle’s inside using an old, soft-bristled toothbrush. Pay close attention to the corners and edges where residue accumulates. A cotton ball soaked in pure acetone or non-acetone nail polish remover can also be effective for stubborn nail polish stains.

Rinse the nail polish bottle thoroughly under running water to remove the soap and debris. Ensure no water droplets remain inside the bottle, as this can dilute the polish when you refill it.
Place the cleaned nail polish bottle upside-down on a clean cloth or paper towel to air dry. For quick drying, use a hairdryer in a relaxed setting, keeping the bottle upright to avoid mishaps.

Once completely dry the bottle, you can refill it with your desired nail polish color. You may use a small funnel to pour the polish into the bottle for easier refilling, preventing spills and waste.

To maintain the quality of your nail polish, proper storage is crucial. Store your nail polish bottles in cool, dark places, away from direct sunlight, as exposure to light and heat can cause the polish to thicken or change color.
Additionally, storing the bottles upright with a rubber band wrapped around the neck and cap can create a secure seal, preventing the cap from sticking to the bottle over time.