Kent Brushes

It’s not every day you come across a British business that’s been around since 1777, but Kent Brushes has been making brushes since the reign of George III.

Based in Apsley, Hertfordshire, Kent Brushes is the world’s oldest brush manufacturer and one of Britain’s longest-established independent businesses. Remarkably, the company has been run by just two families throughout its history.

For nearly 250 years, Kent has been making brushes and combs for everyday life, from traditional wooden hairbrushes and handmade pocket combs to shaving brushes, clothes brushes and grooming accessories. Today, the range is enormous, with products for different hair types, personal care routines and budgets.

Many of Kent’s brushes are still made at its Hertfordshire factory, where traditional craftsmanship remains an important part of the business. Their handmade ranges are particularly special, offering the sort of quality and attention to detail that has helped the company survive for generations.

There’s some fascinating history behind the name, too.

During both World Wars, Kent supplied brushes to the British armed forces, including specialist brushes for maintaining military equipment. Perhaps most remarkably, the company was even asked to produce secret brushes capable of concealing maps and compasses to help the war effort.

Kent has also supplied the Royal Household across nine consecutive reigns and continues to hold a Royal Warrant as brushmakers to His Majesty the King.

Despite its extraordinary history, this isn’t a business stuck in the past. Alongside its traditional handmade brushes and combs, Kent offers modern styling brushes, detangling products, professional salon equipment and an extensive selection of grooming accessories.

Customers can browse and order directly through the company’s online shop, with UK delivery available. There’s also a factory shop in Hertfordshire for anyone who would prefer to visit in person.

From an ordinary hairbrush to a carefully crafted wooden comb, Kent Brushes is a wonderful reminder that some everyday products still have a remarkable British story behind them.