How to Clean Your Paint Brushes Properly

Cleaning brushes the wrong way is slow and can ruin them. Done right, it takes a couple of minutes and your brushes last for years.

1. Wipe off as much paint as you can

Before any water or solvent, wipe the brush on a rag or paper towel until very little paint comes off. Then dip it and wipe again. The more you remove now, the faster the rest goes.

2. Use the right solvent

• Acrylic and other water-based paint: plain water is enough.
• Oil paint: use mineral spirits.

Pour the solvent into a jar or bowl that fits your brush, and work the bristles through it gently. Don't mash them against the bottom.

3. Finish with dish soap

Lather a drop of dish soap into the bristles, rinse in warm water, and repeat until the water runs clear. Reshape the tip with your fingers and let it dry lying flat, never standing on its bristles.

Learn with us in the studio. Paint With Me