Are your brushes looking clogged with paint, drying in strange shapes or you just don’t know if you are using the correct cleaning methods? You’ve come to the right place! In this easy step by step guide we’ll explain how to clean your paint brushes like a pro! Whether you use water based or oil based paints, we’ve got you covered so get ready to learn how to make your art supplies sparkle and shine.
Step 1: Gather All Supplies
Warm soapy water – dish soap or paint cleaning solution
Solvent based cleaner such as Turpentine
Plastic bag
Plastic container or bucket
Glass jar with lid
Paper towels, clean rags
Well ventilated area
Step 2: Remove Excess Paint from Brushes
Immediately after use, remove as much excess paint as possible by wiping brushes onto paper towel, scrap paper or a rag. You can go one step better and use the excess paint to start the background of your next canvas!
For water based paint (Acrylic, Watercolor, Latex):
Add warm water to a small bucket
If you have a paint cleaning solution, follow the directions on the bottle as to how many drops to add to your water bucket.
For oil based paint (Oil, Enamel):
Oil based products require an appropriate solvent based cleaner to break down the bonding agent which holds the pigment in the paint. The most common paint thinner is Turpentine mineral spirits which can be purchased at your local hardware store. Turpentine has a strong odour so adequate ventilation is recommended. Look out for odourless options as they are more health friendly! A glass jar or container with a lid
Step 4: Gently Clean the Brushes
For oil based paint, pour a small amount into a glass jar and swirl the brush in the mineral spirits, patting it against the bottom to release paint. Repeat until the brush appears clean then dry and move on to step 5.
Swirl the brush in the soapy water, gently massaging the bristles with your fingers. Ensure you get all the paint off both the bristles and brush handle.
For stubborn paint, use a paint brush comb, regular comb or an old toothbrush to gently comb through the bristles, helping to dislodge the paint.
Step 5: Rinse and Repeat
Rinse the brush under running water. Repeat the process to ensure there is no remaining paint until the water runs clear and there’s no trace of soap or paint pigment left in the bristles.
Step 6: Dry and Reshape the Brushes
Now you have fabulously clean paint brushes, squeeze the excess water from your brush and use your fingers to gently reshape the bristles to their original form. Lay the brushes flat or hang them upside down to air dry. Avoid leaving brushes standing upright in a container, as water can seep into the ferrule and damage the brush over time.
What’s a ferrule you ask? Just a fancy word for the metal band that attaches the bristles of the brush to the handle.
Step 7: Store Clean Brushes Properly
Store your clean, dry brushes with the bristles pointing upright or flat to maintain their shape.
If you want to protect the bristles further, you can use brush guards or covers. These are specially designed plastic or mesh sleeves that slide over the bristles to maintain their shape.
Cleaning solution disposal and storage:
Dispose of water-based paint waste according to local regulations – many areas have specific guidelines for disposal such as avoiding pouring paint down house drains.
For oil based paint, leave the jar of Turpentine or paint solvent for 24 hours, you will see the paint residue fall to the bottom and you can pour the clean turps back into its original container. Wipe out excess turps with a rag and put in the waste, label your jar for future cleans! Store Turpentine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources and flames. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Why is it Important to Clean my Paint Brushes?
Prevents cross-contamination:
Clean art tools means you can be sure that various paint types or mediums aren’t interacting with one another.
Preserves brush quality:
Regular maintenance of your art tools ensures they will keep their shape and last longer before needing replacement, particularly if you have natural bristle brushes.
Health and safety:
Regular cleaning minimises the build up of various hazardous materials found in paint that pose risks to human health and the environment.
Saves time:
There is nothing more creatively stifling than consuming then starting a new paint job and losing your mojo with extra cleaning and preparation!
Do I need to Clean a Paintbrush Every Time I Use It?
That’s a big YES! Cleaning your paint brushes after each use is essential to prevent paint drying in the bristles and going hard. Make sure your art tools maintain peak performance so you can continue creating your Picasso worthy masterpieces!
Extra Tips to Keep Your Brushes in Tip Top shape:
Avoid Soaking:
Avoid soaking brushes in water or solvent for extended periods, as it can damage the bristles and the ferrule.
Avoid heat:
Avoid drying brushes in direct sunlight or using a hairdryer as heat can damage the bristles.
