Steps for Cleaning Paint Brushes
Repurchasing paintbrushes again and again after each paint job can become quite costly. But with just a few easy steps to clean your brushes thoroughly after a light or even heavy paint job, you'll never have to toss your brushes again. You will be able to use your favorite set of paintbrushes without any worries.
- Rinse the paintbrush in paint thinner. If you used oil based paint you will need to rinse your brushes off in paint thinner first. Simply pour a pint or two of paint thinner into a separate container, like a bucket. Dip the brush's bristles in the paint thinner and swirl around until the paint comes loose. A wire brush or old tooth brush work well for hard to clean spots. Dab the brush with a paper towel or shack brush away from you to remove remaining paint thinner from brush when done.
- Wash the paintbrush. Using cold water and a mild soap, wash the paintbrush gently. Lightly run your fingers over the bristles without tugging on them. Bar soap lathered in your hand or liquid dish soap works great for cleaning brushes.
- Rinse the brush. After washing the brush, gently rinse it with lukewarm water. Make sure all traces of soap are rinsed from the bristles.
- Repeat steps two and three until all brushes are clean. You will know your brushes are clean when the water runs clean (no paint) during the rinsing step. It may take three to four washes and rinses to thoroughly clean the brushes. Do not force paint out of the brushes or bend or spread bristles in a harsh way, as it will ruin your brushes.
- Reshape the bristles. Using your hands, gently move the bristles of the brush into the proper position.
- Dry the brushes. To dry paintbrushes set them on their handle in a sturdy cup. Do not set brushes upright on the bristles as it will ruin the bristles. If there is excess water, you can lightly pat the bristles with a soft rag or paper towel.