How To Do Just About Everything
By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor
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Paintbrushes are expensive. Protect your investment by cleaning them immediately after use. A paintbrush used with oil-based paints can wear out quickly if not cleaned and stored properly.
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Comments
Anonymous said
on 1/25/2006 After removing the paint with the aid of a paint thinner, use mineral oil to help remove all the paint and also to protect it from becoming too bristle. Dip the paintbrushes in a container with mineral oil and carefully wipe off the oil with a cotton rag. They become cleaner and softer. And they last longer.
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 Oil based paints and stains will largely settle out of mineral spirits after a few hours (or overnight). If the paint thinner is stored in a covered can, the clarified liquid can be poured into another container and recycled for cleaning additional brushes. The residue can be allowed to evaporate outside, and the dried paint or stain can be disposed of in the regular trash bin.
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 For cleaning oil based paint from a brush, start with around 1/2 to 1 cup of thinner. Bounce the brush in the thinner (with the bucket tilted so the thinner pools up - protect eyes!) for a minute or so. This first step is cutting the paint from the brush. The dirty thinner will accomplish this. Repeat this step 2-3 more times and spin the brush between steps to remove the soiled thinner/paint mix. Use care not to get it on any cars, houses, etc (and your eyes). The question is what to do with the used thinner? I usually start the cleaning process with dirty thinner and finish with clean.
Anonymous said
on 1/18/2006 Simple, ordinary Comet bathroom cleaner works amazingly. No need for hazardous paint thinner. Swish the brushes around in some damp Comet and massage into bristles. Repeat once or twice, then rinse until water runs clear.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Paint thinner should not be thrown out with your regular trash. Paint thinner should be taken to your local hazardous materials drop-off station. Many cities will host a local Haz-Mat Day once or twice a year, for your convenience.
Put the leftover paint thinner in a coffee can, place the lid on top of the can and store the paint thinner until you can be dispose of it properly.