How to Clean Wood Stain From Brushes

Properly cleaning paint brushes extends the useful life of the brush.

A good paint brush is often the difference between a superb wood staining job and a mediocre one. Although quality paint brushes tend to cost more they are reusable for years when cared for properly. Thoroughly and properly cleaning a brush after use is the best way to insure the brush maintains its value. Cleaning wood stain from a brush is simple and can be accomplished in a few easy steps.

Things You'll Need

• Metal coffee can
• Paint thinner
• Rag
• Dish soap

Instructions

Cleaning Oil-Based Wood-Stain Brushes

1. Pour paint thinner into a metal coffee can.

2. Dip the brush in paint thinner and swish the brush gently around in the thinner. Keep the brush off the bottom of the can.

3. Wipe the brush on an old rag. Check the rag any wood stain residue. Repeat this process until the brush is clean. Gently dry the brush with the rag. Hang the brush to store.

Cleaning Water-Based Wood-Stain Brushes

1. Fill a coffee can with gentle dish soap and water.

2. Swirl the brush around in the soapy water keeping the bristles pointed down. Keep the bristles from bending or pressing against the bottom of the can.

3. Rinse the stain free brush in clean water. Gently dry with an old rag. Hang the brush up to store it.

Tips & Warnings

• Dip brushes being used in water-based stains in water prior to use and blot them on a rag to help expedite cleanup. Dip brushes being used in oil stains in paint thinner prior to use and blot them on a rag to help expedite cleanup.

• Use protective eye and hand wear when cleaning paint brushes with paint thinner.

References

• Paint Splash: How To Clean Your Paint Brushes The Right Way
• Ask the Builder: Cleaning Paint Brushes
• Purdy Corp: Cleaning Brushes