Steps for cleaning paintbrushes

  • Don’t over-dip the paintbrush while in use. Dip the brush into the paint only about two fingers wide.
  • Begin cleaning a paintbrush immediately after use.
  • Hold the brush bristles-side-down and run it through a sink with warm water.
  • If there is still paint residue, add a little bit of soap and continue to run the brush through your fingers.
  • If there is still paint residue after that, use a scour pad and gently brush it off the bristles. Be as gentle as possible to be sure the bristles aren’t damaged.
  • To dry, dap the brush on a rag and spin the brush in your hands in the sink to spin any remaining water droplets off the brush.
  • Once the brush is dry, put it back in its cover. Most paintbrushes come in a cardboard cover that can be re-used.

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Mauro suggests that the best way to clean a paintbrush is to be as gentle as possible. He recommends using warm water, a little bit of soap, and your fingers to try to clean the paintbrush off.

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If that does not work, a scrub pad can be used to gently brush off residue. Mauro used Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pads, manufactured by 3M. These can be found at home centers, department stores, and grocery stores.