Paint brushes can be easily ruined if they are not cleaned and stored properly after each use. Cleaning paint brushes a simple process that only takes a few minutes. The process is slightly different for brushes that have been used with water-based paint vs. solvent-based paint, so use one of the following directions, depending on which paint type you used.
Brushes used with Water-based Paint
You will need a wire brush and a mild soap (dish soap works well).
- Remove excess paint on the can or paint tray, then run the brush under running water, with the bottoms of the bristles pointing up so the water more effectively releases the extra paint.
- Depending on the brush size, pour a small dollop of soap on the brush, and lather it through the bristles.
- Next, use the wire brush to smooth out the bristles and to remove any last bits of paint or paint clumps.
- Ring out the brush with your hand, and roll the brush handle between your palms briskly to remove extra water and paint.
Brushes used with Oil-based Paint
You will need paint thinner or mineral spirits and a wire brush , and 3 (roughly) quart-sized containers.
- Pour about 3/4 cup paint thinner into one of the containers, submerge the paint bristles in the paint thinner, then swish the brush around to clean the brush.
- Use the wire brush to remove any clumps of paint, then swish the brush around in the container again.
- Pour another 3/4 paint thinner into another container and rinse out the brush one more time to remove any excess paint and remnants from the dirty solution.
- Hold the brush in the last, empty, container and roll the brush between your palms to remove the last bits of paint and moisture.
After following these steps, your brushes can be stored in a plastic bag, or in their original packaging to retain optimal shape until your next paint project.
If you have any questions about painting, give Lancaster Painting a call at 209-634-1111. If you have a question you would like us to answer with a blog, feel free to email it to us !
