Guide to Cleaning Paint Brushes

High quality paint brushes are expensive, so cleaning them properly after each use is important. Proper cleaning can significantly extend the life of any paint brush and prevent the bristles from coming loose when you paint. Cleaning the paint from artist brushes follows the same basic procedures.

Cleaning Latex Paint from Brushes

1. Wipe the bristles on the edge of the paint can to remove the excess paint. Continue removing the paint by gently wiping the bristles with a paint rag.


2. Rinse the brush under running water until the water runs almost clear.


3. Gently work a small amount of dish detergent into the bristles.


4. Brush the bristles with a wire brush or wire comb (available in the paint department of your local home improvement store.) Always brush away from the handle toward the end of the bristles.


5. Rinse under running water until the water runs clear. You can continue to brush or comb the bristles as you rinse.


6. Shake off as much of the excess water as possible.


7. Reshape the bristles into the original form and allow to air dry.
   
   

Cleaning Oil-Based or Enamel Paint from Brushes

1. Wipe the bristles on the edge of the paint can to remove the excess paint. Continue removing the paint by gently wiping the bristles with a paint rag.


2. Pour several inches of paint thinner or other solvent into an old can or similar container.


3. Dip and swish the bristles in the thinner. Wipe the bristles on a paint rag. Repeat.


4. Safely dispose of the used paint thinner. Repeat step 3 with clean thinner until the brush looks and feels clean.


5. Use a wire brush or comb as detailed in step 4 of the latex cleaning procedures above if you have difficulty removing all the paint from the bristles.


6. Wash the brush with water and a gentle dish detergent if the bristles feel too oily once clean. Refer to the latex cleaning procedures above.


7. Reshape the bristles into the original form and allow to air dry.
   
   

Tips:

• Avoid tugging on the bristles.


• Always use cool water, as warm water can cause the base of the brush to swell, which loosens the bristles.


• Over time and with use paint, brushes will become stained by the pigments used in the paint. This does not affect the brush's functionality, only its appearance.


• Always safely dispose of paint thinner and solvent soaked rags as these items are toxic and flammable.


• Protect yourself from solvents by wearing vulcanized rubber gloves.