How to Clean a Paint Brush

With today's disposable society, most would not think twice about purchasing an inexpensive paint brush, use it, and then throw it away. However, by investing a few more dollars, one can purchase a superior paint brush that will enhance the quality of your work. The key to maintaining a quality paint brush lies in proper cleaning and storage.

You should clean the brush after each use. The exception to this rule is if you plan on using it again after a few hours (and using it with the same paint). In this case it can be temporarily stored in a container of solvent (the directions on the paint can will guide you on which solvent to use). You can also wrap the brush in plastic wrap to shield the bristles from air for shorter re-coat periods.

Cleaning water based paint

Water based paints such as latex can be best cleaned in a sink with simple water and soap. The water should be warm, not hot. Lather, rinse, and repeat ensuring that all soap has been washed from the brush. Once cleaned, re-insert the brush back into the original cardboard protector. If you no longer have the original cardboard protector, wrap the brush in brown paper or a heavy paper towel to help re-form the bristles. You want to emulate the sleeve that the brush came with and you can secure the paper with masking tape.

Cleaning non water based paint

Clean the brush in a small container with the proper solvent. Read the back of your paint or stain can for additional information Most solvents are hard on your hands so be sure to wear gloves and always clean the brush in a well ventilated area. Work the solvent into the bristles using you hands and use a brush comb that you can pick up at the paint or hardware store. If you don't have a brush comb, be creative, try using an old fork. Your goal with the brush comb is to get the solvent into the bristles.

Once clean, you will want to remove the excessive solvent from the brush. You can do that by twisting the brush inside a plastic garbage bag or bucket to remove any extra solvent. If you are going to be doing a lot of painting (or just want to impress your friends) pick up a paint brush spinner. This tool allows your brush or roller to be attached and will spin the extra solvent away.

Once you have removed all the extra solvent, wash the brush with soap and warm water. After cleaning a natural bristle brush 5 times, use some shampoo to help replenish the bristle oils. As with the above, rinse the brush thoroughly to remove any soap remaining and spin the excess water from the brush. Once cleaned, re-insert the brush back into the original cardboard protector or wrap the brush in brown paper to help re-form the bristles.

From start to finish cleaning a brush should take about 10 minutes.

When storing your brush, hand it or lay it flat, never stand it up on its bristles.