If you’re an artist, you probably have a collection of brushes—some cheap, some pricey, and maybe even a few repurposed from the makeup aisle (hey, no judgment!). No matter where they come from, one thing’s for sure: we want them to last.
When I first started painting, I had no idea how to properly care for my brushes. I’d dip them in white spirit, swirl them around a bit, and call it a day. Then, before I knew it, the bristles were splitting, fraying, and refusing to hold paint like they used to. I found myself back at the art shop, buying replacements more often than I’d like. Something had to change.
After some trial and error (and a lot of research), I landed on a cleaning routine that works like magic. It keeps my brushes looking and feeling brand new, no matter how many times I use them.
Step 1: Remove Excess Paint
Before anything else, grab a piece of kitchen towel and wipe away as much paint as possible. Trust me, this step makes the whole cleaning process so much easier.
Step 2: Use the Right Solvent
- For oil paints: White spirit works, but it’s harsh. If you want something gentler, try linseed oil or safflower oil.
- For acrylics and watercolors: Clean with warm water—no harsh chemicals needed!
Step 3: Deep Clean with Soap
This is the game-changer. I use a brush-cleaning soap (easily found in art shops), but honestly, any mild soap will do the job. Just gently work the bristles across the surface, adding a little water now and then until the foam runs clean. This step removes any leftover residue that could ruin the bristles over time.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the brush under lukewarm water—never too hot! Extreme heat can weaken the glue that holds the bristles together, leading to shedding and distortion.
Step 5: Dry the Right Way
No hairdryers, no radiators, and definitely no wringing out the bristles! Heat can melt the glue, and rough handling can lead to bristle loss.
Step 6: Store Properly
This is where most people go wrong. Never leave your brushes lying flat on a table—this can cause the bristles to dry bent and lose their shape. Avoid standing them upright in a jar with the bristles up too; water will pool at the base and weaken the glue. Instead, hang them upside down or lay them flat on a towel, ensuring the bristles don’t touch anything.
To keep my brushes in perfect shape while drying, I use a brush washer with a coil holder. It allows me to hang them upside down, ensuring no water collects at the base while preventing the bristles from touching any surfaces.
If you follow these steps, I promise your brushes will stay in top condition for years to come. Whether they’re your budget-friendly ones or the expensive, high-end favorites, proper care makes all the difference!
What’s your go-to brush care trick? I’d love to hear how you keep your brushes in top shape!
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