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DIY Clean Paint Brushes
Cleaning a paintbrush properly is essential for its longevity and performance. Whether you're working with water-based or oil-based paints, this article will provide you with the right method to clean your brush and maintain its shape for future use.
Important Note: Prior to using any of the products mentioned, it is highly recommended to thoroughly read and understand all safety precautions associated with each product. It is also strongly advised to perform a patch test before proceeding with usage.
Please be advised that this guide is intended for informational purposes only and APC Pure cannot accept any responsibility for the outcome of any usage based on this guide.
Here are the steps and materials you'll need:
Cleaning Water-Based Finishes and Latex Paint
Step 1: Begin by scraping off any excess paint using the rim of a can or working the brush onto newspaper. Make sure the brush is as free of paint as possible.
Step 2: Next, wash the brush in a jar of soapy water. Work the paint free of the bristles with your hands and a brush comb.
Step 3: Spin the brush to remove any remaining paint and water. Rinse the bristles in another jar of clean water. Work the bristles with your hand, and then spin the brush again. This process helps to ensure that all paint is removed.
Step 4: After rinsing, wrap the brush with heavy paper. Prefold the paper, wrap it around the brush, and tie it loosely with string. This step is critical to retain the shape of the brush.
Cleaning Oil-Based Varnishes and Paints from Brushes
Step 1: Rinse the brush thoroughly in Mineralised Methylated Spirits (Paint Thinner). Work the bristles with your hands, wearing chemical-resistant gloves. If necessary, use a brush comb to get rid of paint clinging to the brush.
Step 2: Spin the brush for 10 seconds. Use a brush-and-roller spinner after nearly all the paint solids are out of the brush.
Step 3: Dip the brush into a jar of Mineralised Methylated Spirits (Paint Thinner). Work any remaining paint out of the bristles. Agitate the bristles for at least two minutes, and then spin the brush again.
Step 4: Dip the brush into a jar of lacquer thinner. Agitate the brush for about a minute to remove any remaining paint residue. Shake the brush onto newspaper to remove the lacquer thinner and residue. Be sure to do this outside, as lacquer thinner is extremely flammable.
Step 5: Finally, clean the brush in a jar of soapy water using laundry or dish soap. Work the bristles for only one minute. Although purists may not want to do this, a quick cleaning with water won’t damage the bristles. Spin the brush free of water.
Caution: Always work in a well-ventilated area when cleaning brushes in solvents.
When using flammable solvents, spin the brush only in well-ventilated areas away. Outdoors is best.
Don’t ever clean solvent-laden brushes around water heaters, stoves, or any device with an open flame or potential electrical spark. Keep the solvents in proper, well-marked containers out of reach of children and pets.
Don't dump the paint thinner when you're finished. Let the paint solids settle to the bottom of the jar, then pour off the rest into a clean container. Let the solids dry outdoors, and then contact your local trash service for proper disposal.