Why Cleaning a Slicker Brush Matters
A slicker brush is a daily grooming tool that collects dead fur, dander, and dirt. When the bristles become clogged with hair and debris, the brush stops working effectively and can even tug on your pet's coat. Regular cleaning keeps the pins free to glide through fur, reduces the spread of oils and dust, and helps you spot wear before it irritates your pet's skin.
For pets with sensitive skin, a clean brush is especially important. The JW GripSoft Slicker Brush uses 90-degree angled soft pins that run parallel to the skin to prevent scratching. But if hair builds up between those pins, the brush can't do its job properly. Routine cleaning is simple and takes just a few minutes.
How to Remove Hair from a Slicker Brush
You don't need special tools—just a few everyday items. The key is to remove hair from the base of the pins without bending them.
- Step 1: Lift loose hair with a comb or your fingers: After brushing your pet, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingertips to lift the trapped fur from the bristles. Work from the outer edge toward the center to avoid pushing hair deeper into the pad. For the JW GripSoft Slicker Brush, the rounded head and non-slip grip make this easy to do one-handed.
- Step 2: Use a brush cleaning tool or toothbrush: A small cleaning rake (often sold with pet brushes) or an old toothbrush works well to dislodge stubborn hair and dust from between the pins. Gently sweep across the bristles in the direction of the pins. Avoid pulling against the angle of the pins—the JW GripSoft pins are designed to run parallel to the skin, so cleaning with the pin direction protects their shape.
- Step 3: Rinse and dry (if needed): If the brush is greasy or has accumulated dander, rinse it under lukewarm water. Use a mild soap if necessary, but avoid soaking the handle or pad. The JW GripSoft brush has a rubberized grip that should not be submerged. Let the brush air-dry bristle-side down on a towel.
How Often Should You Clean a Slicker Brush?
Remove visible hair after each grooming session—this takes seconds and keeps the brush ready for next time. Give the brush a deeper clean (rinse and dry) every two to four weeks, or more often if you groom multiple pets or a heavy shedder. The JW GripSoft Slicker Brush is designed for daily use, so regular cleaning helps the soft pins stay effective at preventing matting and removing dead fur.
What the JW GripSoft Slicker Brush Offers for Maintenance
- JW Gripsoft Slicker Brush With Soft Pins: The JW GripSoft Slicker Brush features unique Gripsoft technology that provides a non-slip grip for optimal comfort and control while grooming your pet. A non-slip grip makes it easier to hold the brush steady while you clean it—no fumbling with a wet or slippery handle.
JW Gripsoft Slicker Brush With Soft Pins - JW Gripsoft Slicker Brush With Soft Pins: The rounded head and 90-degree angled soft pins run parallel to the skin rather than straight down, preventing raking which can scratch or irritate the skin. Because the pins are angled, cleaning in the direction of the pins (not against them) preserves their intended shape and protects your pet's sensitive skin.
- JW Gripsoft Slicker Brush With Soft Pins: The soft pins are gentle but very effective to help prevent matting and remove dead and shedding fur. Regular cleaning ensures the pins stay free of matted fur so they can continue to remove loose hair without pulling on the coat.
General Pet Brush Maintenance Tips
Check the bristles regularly for bent or broken pins. If you notice any sharp edges, replace the brush to avoid scratching your pet. Store the brush in a dry area—moisture can rust metal pins or degrade rubber grips over time. The JW GripSoft Slicker Brush ships in two assorted colors (blue and yellow) and two sizes (Small and Large), so you can pick the right size for your pet and keep a spare for rotation.
A clean slicker brush extends its life and makes grooming more comfortable for your dog or cat. With a few minutes of care after each use, you'll get the most out of your brush and keep your pet's coat soft and shiny.
