How to Wash Oil Paintbrushes

Oil paint stuck in brush ferrules

Good-quality oil paintbrushes can be expensive to purchase. However, with proper care and cleaning, they can last for years and be used over and over. It is important to wash your brushes properly after each use, before the paint hardens. If oil paint dries on a brush, it may not come off without damaging the bristles. Always read the warning labels on the oil paint and turpentine containers before washing oil paintbrushes.

Things You'll Need

• Turpentine
• Small bucket or glass jar
• Brush comb
• Paper towels
• Paintbrush holder
• Soap

Instructions

1. Open windows and turn on ceiling fans and window box fans to ventilate. Follow all safety precautions on the packaging of your paint and turpentine.

2. Pour turpentine into a small clean bucket or glass jar. Use 2 inches of solution for small brushes or 3 inches for large brushes.

3. Swish and twirl your paintbrush bristles in the solution to loosen the paint. To avoid distorting the shape of the brush, do not tap down, scrape or push down on the bristles.

4. Prevent paint from staying embedded in the ferrule (the metal band on the paintbrush) by using your brush comb tool to loosen. Once all traces of paint washed off, pat the bristles gently with a paper towel.

5. Lather some mild hand soap and water in your sink. Rub the lather into your paint brush bristles. Rinse until water runs clear.

6. 

   Oil paintbrushes, clean and ready to use

   Tap off excess water. Place your clean paintbrushes into a container to air dry with the bristles up. Dispose of leftover paint and turpentine according to the container labels.

Tips & Warnings

• Mineral spirits may be used to wash oil paint brushes instead of turpentine.

• For dried-on paint, soak your brushes in turpentine or commercial paint remover overnight. Use your brush comb to dislodge the paint. Brush combs are available wherever paint is sold.

• Put on your gloves before using any paint remover chemicals.

• According to the Environmental Protection Agency, flammable products should not be used near any ignition sources including water heaters, furnaces, motors or fans.

References

• Oregon State University Extension Service: Working with Wood & Tools Using Glues and Wood Finishes
• Learn to Draw and Paint!: Oil Painting Brushes Care
• bobvila.com: Paint Cleanup - Paint Cleanup - Oil-Based - Painting, Paint & Wallpaper