Learn how to clean paintbrushes

This information has been provided by Daves DIY Tips website.

Many decorators will just throw paintbrushes in the bin rather than clean them after use, but this is a complete waste of money.

If the paintbrush has been used for emulsioning it can be cleaned very easily. Firstly remove excess paint off the paintbrush then rinse the paintbrush under a running tap. Eventually the water will run clear and your paintbrush will be clean, remove any remaining water by doing brush strokes on some newspaper.

Safety tips:
- The majority of paint brush cleaning solutions / solvents can give off harmful fumes, therefore they should be used in a well ventilated area.
- Cleaning solution can also be flammable and will be an irritant to or even burn skin.
- Gloves and goggles should be used and the cleaning solution / solvent should be locked away out of the reach of children.

Paintbrushes that have been used for gloss (oil based paint) painting should again have the excess paint removed first. Agitate the brush in a small container filled with white spirit then when most of the paint has been removed dry off the paintbrush on some newspaper and then agitate it again in a small container filled with paintbrush restorer.

When it is completely clean wash the paintbrush using some warm water and soap, rinse and dry again on some newspaper. Using a simple cleaning method like this will help you to be able to reuse your paintbrushes for years.

If the paint brush has been used and won’t be used again until say the following morning, wrap the bristles in cling film which will stop the paint from drying on the paintbrush and leave it ready to use again the next day. This method is only suitable for short periods of time in between use.