The 9 Best Scrub Brushes of 2023
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Banish grime and dirt in minutes with these handy tools
The Spruce / David Hattan
Investing in a good quality scrub is a great way to get rid of dirt and grime from a variety of household surfaces. “Using a scrub brush usually requires less pressure to get a proficient clean than paper towels, rags, or sponges,” says Allison Evans, co-founder of Branch Basics. “Scrub brushes are helpful as they come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to pick the one most ideal for the particular task.”
Some brushes are more versatile, like those that come with several brush heads, allowing you to handle multiple tasks with one tool. Other scrub brushes are specially designed for certain cleaning tasks, such as scrubbing toilets, dishes, or water bottles.
We’re here to help you find the right scrub brush for your cleaning needs. To narrow down the best options, we conducted hours of research, evaluating products based on their size, material, cleaning ability, versatility, and ease of use. We also considered special features, such as rotating or interchangeable brush heads and adjustable speed settings.
Best Overall: Voweek Electric Spin Scrubber
What We Like
Includes 4 brush heads for various tasks
Runs up to 90 minutes per charge
Extendable stainless-steel handle
Portable hook for easy storage
What We Don’t Like
Pricier than manual brushes
Our Best Overall pick, the Voweek Electric Spin Scrubber, is a real game changer, because it allows for versatile cleaning and keeps elbow grease to a minimum. Although it’s pricier than manual scrub brushes, we love the added convenience. This impressive brush comes with four different brush heads designated for specific tasks. The hard flat brush is ideal for large surfaces, such as floors, vanity, and shower doors. Meanwhile, the round brush is perfect for curved fixtures, including bathtubs and sinks. The corner brush and small flat brush come in handy for cleaning more difficult nooks and crannies, such as stovetops and shower-door tracks.
This unit is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery and can run for up to 90 minutes on a full charge. It takes 4.5 to 5 hours to fully recharge, and a helpful indicator light will let you know when charging is complete. A charger is included, but there may be missing parts, so be sure to inspect your product thoroughly upon arrival. The brush has two speed settings—280 and 380 RPM—so you can choose the amount of scrubbing power you need for the job.
This electric shower scrubber features a stainless-steel handle, which extends from 27 inches to 43 inches, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach areas without having to kneel or bend over. The brush heads have three adjustable angles for even more flexibility. The spin scrubber can’t be completely submerged in water, but it will resist a few splashes. For added convenience, it comes with a potable hook for easy storage. Bonus: the product is backed by a one-year warranty to protect your investment!
Price at time of publish: $90
Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 43.5 inches | Bristle Material: Not listed | Dishwasher Safe: No | Weight: 2.02 pounds
Best Budget: Holikme Deep Cleaning Brush Set
What We Like
Very affordable
Includes 7 brushes to tackle various surfaces
Ergonomic design
What We Don’t Like
Brushes aren’t that durable
Smaller than other options
This set includes seven cleaning brushes for various tasks, allowing you to tackle every surface in your home. The set includes two scrub brushes, one tile line brush, three groove gap brushes, and one scouring pad. The larger scrub brushes are well-suited for larger surfaces, such as tile, bathtubs, and showers. For stainless steel kitchen appliances, try the scouring pad brush. And expect the tile line brush to be perfect for grout cleaning, while the groove cap will work best on delicate surfaces like stove tops and windows.
Compared to other scrubbers, the handles on these brushes are relatively small, and they can’t be extended or adjusted. While they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, they may also require too much effort to clean a larger area. Additionally, we would have appreciated hanger holes for easier storage. Still, the brushes have an ergonomic design that provides a comfortable grip.
Just know that the bristles may bend and shed over time, so be sure to wash these brushes by hand. Despite a few flaws, the Holikme Brush Set still earns our rave reviews. If you’re looking for an affordable way to clean your entire home, it’s definitely worth a try.
Price at time of publish: $10
Dimensions: 5 x 2.2 x 3.8 inches | Bristle Material: Not listed | Dishwasher Safe: Not listed | Weight: 11.3 ounces
Best for Bathrooms: Labigo Electric Spin Scrubber
What We Like
Comes with four brush heads
Works for about 90 minutes continuously
High RPM to remove stubborn stains
Telescoping handle
What We Don’t Like
Relatively heavy
Battery takes over 3 hours to fully charge
With its versatile design, the Labigo Electric Spin Scrubber is a standout performer when it comes to bathroom cleaning. This electric brush, powered by a rechargeable battery, can run for up to 90 minutes on a full charge. The built-in battery takes about 3.5 hours to reach a full charge. Four replaceable brush heads are included in the set (a dome brush, a corner brush, a small flat brush, and a wide flat brush), allowing you to tackle a wide range of tasks. Thanks to an extendable handle that adjusts from 26 to 45 inches, you can clean without having to bend down—a real back saver!
The brush heads rotate at a speed of up to 380 RPM, providing plenty of power to remove stubborn stains. At nearly four pounds, this brush is fairly heavy compared to other models. You may experience fatigue after using it for several minutes, and it may be difficult to maneuver. You may want to consider a lighter alternative if you have a large bathroom or multiple bathrooms in your home. Despite that one hiccup, the Labigo scrubber has received rave reviews on the whole. This kit comes with a hanging hook, which makes it easy to store when not in use.
Price at time of publish: $75
Dimensions: 16.22 x 6.34 x 5.63 inches | Bristle Material: Polycarbonate (PC) | Dishwasher Safe: Not listed | Weight: 3.69 pounds
Best for Dishes: Lubrima Silicone Sponge
What We Like
Can be cleaned in the dishwasher
Resists odors and germs
Long-lasting
Can double as pot holders or vegetable scrubbers
What We Don’t Like
Very slippery when wet
Doesn't create a lot of suds
Thanks to their non-porous design, these silicone sponges from Lubrima are our Best for Dishes pick. Unlike foam and cellulose sponges, they won’t hold on to smells and germs. They also last a lot longer than cellulose dish sponges. Made from a durable silicone, you’ll only have to replace them every few months when they eventually start to disintegrate. To top it all off, they can go right in the dishwasher for an easy cleanup.
Although these sponges effectively remove stuck-on food, you don’t have to worry about them scratching delicate cookware. They also come in handy as pot holders and vegetable scrubbers. Because three different colored sponges come in the pack, you can easily designate them for separate tasks. One downside to the sponges is that they become slippery when wet, which makes them difficult to grip. They also won’t create as many suds as other options, but they'll still get the job done well.
Price at time of publish: $12 for 3
Dimensions: 4.92 x 2.75 x 0.62 inches | Bristle Material: Silicone | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Weight: 1.1 ounces
Best for Water Bottles: OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set
What We Like
Includes three brushes for specific cleaning tasks
Dual bristles for effective cleaning
Nonslip grip
Easy to store
What We Don’t Like
Bristles don’t go all around the head
You may not need all three brushes
This three-piece set from OXO is specially designed to clean all the nooks and crannies of a water bottle. It includes a long brush that gets inside bottles, a round brush that’s ideal for bottle caps, and a straw brush. All of the brushes have stiff nylon bristles, delivering plenty of scrubbing power to remove tough residue. Unlike other water bottle brushes, you may notice that the bristles on the long brush won’t cover the entire head, so a little more effort might be required for thorough cleaning. Depending on the type of water bottle, you may not need all of the brushes in this set, but it’s reasonably priced regardless.
The brushes also feature nonslip handles, which provide a comfortable grip and easy maneuverability. The handle on the long brush is 12.5 inches long, allowing you to reach the bottom of most water bottles. It also has two types of bristles—softer ones on the side to clean bottle walls without scratching, and firmer bristles at the end for more thorough scrubbing. There is one potential downside to this otherwise versatile set: The brushes aren’t dishwasher-safe, which means you’ll have to clean them by hand. All of the brushes are stored together on a ring for convenient organization and easy removal.
Price at time of publish: $12
Dimensions: 17.5 x 4.25 x 2.13 inches | Bristle Material: Nylon | Dishwasher Safe: No | Weight: 4.3 ounces
Best for Toilets: OXO Good Grips Compact Toilet Brush & Canister
What We Like
Tapered brush head to access crevices
Stiff bristles for deep cleaning
Comfortable handle
Touch-free canister
What We Don’t Like
Brush heads aren’t replaceable
No sustainable disposal method
This toilet brush from OXO has some great features that set it apart from the competition. We like that the canister opens automatically when you lift up the brush, creating a more hygienic experience. The brush head is tapered to get under the rim of your toilet bowl, and it has stiff bristles that remove tough stains and grime. Another convenient feature is the drip tray on the canister, which has ventilation slots that allow the brush to dry quickly.
To top it all off, the canister keeps the brush neatly concealed when it’s not in use. The all-white design blends in nicely with most bathroom decor, and its compact size is ideal for small spaces. Unfortunately, the brush heads are not replaceable, which means you’ll have to replace the entire unit every year or possibly sooner. The bristles may start to fall off over time, and all of the parts are made of plastic, which is not the most eco-friendly or sustainable.
Price at time of publish: $18
Dimensions: 17 x 4 x 4.25 inches | Bristle Material: Not listed | Dishwasher Safe: No | Weight: 0.7 pounds
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Best Heavy-Duty : Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless Compact Power Scrubber
What We Like
Powerful motor for excellent scrubbing action
Up to 1 hour of continuous runtime
Lock-on button to reduce user fatigue
Battery and charger included
What We Don’t Like
Protective eyewear is recommended
Pricer than manual scrub brushes
If you need a powerful tool for larger cleaning projects, this 18-volt handheld power scrubber from Ryobi is a stellar performer. The large brush, which measures 6 inches in diameter, is well-equipped for scrubbing concrete, siding, automobiles, and other outdoor surfaces. Its brush head rotates at about 210 rpm, enough scrubbing power to remove tough gunk and grime buildup. The spinning brush is attached to a pole that extends up to 51 inches, allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas. When fully charged, the Ryobi provides up to one hour of continuous runtime. It's powered by a 18-volt lithium-ion battery and a charger is included.
Another noteworthy feature is the lock-on power button, so you don’t have to hold down the trigger as you clean—a huge plus for reducing hand fatigue. All of the internal components are likely to stay dry if you spray it down with a garden hose, making it easy to clean. And, according to the manufacturer, this scrubber can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes. It is recommended that you wear protective eyewear because the Ryobi tends to dislodge dirt and debris, especially when working overhead. Just know that this electric brush is significantly pricier than manual scrub brushes, which is to be expected.
Price at time of publish: $119
Dimensions: 12.25 x 4.25 x 7.12 inches | Bristle Material: Not listed | Dishwasher Safe: N/A | Weight: 2.7 pounds
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Best Eco-Friendly: Naturolic All-Natural Wooden Scrub Brush Set
What We Like
100% backyard compostable
Ergonomic handle
Stiff and flexible bristles for versatile cleaning
What We Don’t Like
Smaller than other option
Not adjustable
The Naturolic All-Natural Wooden Scrub Brush Set is 100% backyard compostable, making it our Best Eco-Friendly option. It has a contoured wooden handle that makes it comfortable to grip. The bristles are made from palmyra fiber, and their stiff yet flexible texture provides versatile scrubbing power. Plus, they’re flared to cover a larger surface area. This brush can be used on tiles, bathtubs, countertops, kitchen sinks, and more.
Measuring 7 x 2 x 2 inches, these brushes are smaller than many other options, which makes them best suited for smaller jobs. They are particularly helpful for cleaning car mats, tile grout, and stonework. One downside to any standard, handheld scrub brush is that they require more elbow grease. And, without an adjustable handle, you’ll likely need to bend and reach to clean certain areas. Though fairly basic in design, the Naturolic is an effective cleaning tool that’s better for the environment.
Price at time of publish: $17
Dimensions: 7 x 2 x 2 inches | Bristle Material: Palmyra | Dishwasher Safe: No | Weight: 9.6 ounces
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Best Long-Handle Scrub Brush: Mr. Siga Heavy Duty Grout Scrub Brush
What We Like
Adjustable, foam-wrapped handle that’s comfortable to grip
Stiff bristles for powerful scrubbing
180 degree maneuverable swivel head
What We Don’t Like
Brush head is relatively small
Mixed reviews on durability
This scrub brush from Mr. Siga has a long, adjustable handle that lets you clean tile floors, showers, and other surfaces, without having to bend over or get on your hands and knees. You can also lock the handle in your desired position for added stability. The brush head swivels by 180 degrees, making it easy to access corners and other hard-to-reach areas. At a little over a pound, this brush is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver. Meanwhile, stiff V-shaped bristles deliver a deep cleaning, remove stubborn stains, and thoroughly scrub grout lines.
This scrub brush features a steel handle that’s wrapped in foam to provide a comfortable grip. Plus, the manufacturer provides a full refund if you’re dissatisfied or encounter any problems or defects. Measuring 9 inches wide, the brush head can be a bit small, which means this brush might not be the best option for cleaning large spaces.
Price at time of publish: $26
Dimensions: 4.72 x 3.94 x 0.79 inches | Bristle Material: Polypropylene | Dishwasher Safe: No | Weight: 1.28 pounds
Commerce - Final Verdict
For versatile household cleaning, our Best Overall pick is the Voweek Electric Spin Scrubber. It has four brush heads with adjustable angles, two speed settings, and can run continuously for up to 90 minutes on a full charge. For our Best Budget option, the Holikme 7 Pack Deep Cleaning Brush Set features an ergonomic design and includes seven brushes to handle just about any cleaning task—though it’s not as durable as other options.
What to Look for in a Scrub Brush
Bristle Material
Most scrub brushes have bristles made of nylon or plastic, but rubber and silicone are also fairly common. Choosing the most suitable bristle type really depends on the task. Stiff bristles are ideal for tougher jobs like removing stuck-on grime and soap scum from surfaces. However, bristles with some flexibility make it easier to access tight corners and other hard-to-reach places. Of course, if you’re cleaning a delicate surface, you should opt for a soft bristled brush.
Silicone bristles are non-porous, which makes them resistant to germs, bacteria, and odors. To prevent contamination, a scrub brush with silicone bristles is an excellent choice for dishwashing. Our top pick for Best for Dishes, the Lubrima Silicone Sponge, effectively removes food and dirt. Plus, it won’t hold on to smells and germs like traditional sponges, so you don’t have to replace them as frequently. Another advantage to silicone brushes? They’re typically softer than other types of bristles, which means they’re less likely to scratch glassware and water bottles.
Size
Scrub brushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the one that’s right for you all depends on the cleaning job. If you’re scrubbing larger surface areas, such as floors, shower doors, and countertops, a larger brush is probably your best option. Likewise, a smaller brush will help you reach nooks and crannies more effectively. For example, our Best for Toilets, the OXO Good Grips Compact Toilet Brush and Canister, has a tapered head to get under the rim of the bowl and thoroughly clean crevices.
Cleaning Ability and Versatility
Some brushes are solely intended for use on specific items such as dishes, toilets, and water bottles. Obviously, you wouldn’t want to use a toilet brush to clean anything else in your home! However, if you want to tackle multiple surfaces in one swoop, consider a set that comes with different types of brushes for various tasks. Our Best Overall pick, the Voweek Electric Spin Scrubber, really wowed us! It includes four interchangeable brush heads that can be used on a multitude of household surfaces.
Ease of Use
If you’re looking for a brush that’s comfortable to hold for an extended period of time, look for one with an ergonomic handle. Our top choice for Best Long-handle Scrub Brush, Mr. Siga Heavy Duty Grout Scrub Brush, has a foam-wrapped handle that makes it comfortable to hold. A nonslip might also be a priority, especially if you’re using the brush in a wet area like a shower or sink. An extendable handle will help you access hard-to-reach places without having to bend or strain. Though pricier, electric brushes will save you time and elbow grease, but keep in mind that they need to be charged for several hours once the battery is depleted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are silicone scrubbers better than sponges?
“Silicone scrubbers are known for being durable, easy to clean, and hygienic since they don't hold onto bacteria like sponges can,” says Allison Evans of Branch Basics. “They also have gentle yet effective scrubbing abilities, making them suitable for various surfaces.” Cellulose sponges can be equally effective, particularly those that have a scouring pad on one side. However, they have a tendency to trap residue and bacteria, and therefore need to be replaced more frequently.
What are the best brushes for cleaning floors?
If you are attempting to do a deep clean or remove tough grime, Evans says that a scrub brush is your best bet. “Scrub brushes also allow more targeted cleaning and the stiffer bristles will more easily and effectively loosen and remove stubborn dirt,” she explains. “They are also great for corners and other smaller areas where a traditional or microfiber mop could miss in regular maintenance.”
How often do you need to change your scrub brush?
“The frequency of changing your scrub brush depends on its condition, usage, and quality,” Evans says. “Inspect your scrub brush regularly and consider replacing it when you notice significant wear, fraying bristles, or if it starts accumulating a substantial amount of dirt or debris.” If you notice that the brush starts to smell, Evans says this is a sure sign that it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Why Trust The Spruce
This article was researched and written by Sage McHugh, a writer and product tester for The Spruce. For this roundup, McHugh considered dozens of scrub brushes, carefully evaluating each product’s size, material, cleaning ability, versatility, and ease of use. To find the best scrub brushes on the market, she consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites. For additional insight, she interviewed Allison Evans, co-founder of Branch Basics.
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