Comments on: How to Clean Paintbrushes - Oil-Based Paint

on 6/30/2008 I think I'll just use acrylics next time :)

on 5/31/2007 NEVER dispose of paint thinner casually, especially when using oil-based paints with Cadmiums and Cobalts

My recommendations:
1) Find a small sealable/airtight container
2) Find a patch of metal screen or other metal mesh and form a "half dome;" then insert dome side up into the container
3) Find adequate ventilation: MAKE SURE you have enough fresh air for the safety of you and others
4) Add mineral spirits/paint thinner to a line about 1/2 inch above the top of the metal screen
5) Move the brush gently (also firmly depending upon how loaded the brush is with paint) across the top of the screen to loosen the oil-based pigment
6) If need be wipe the brush clean with a cotton cloth and store the cloth OUTSIDE of your home
7) Do these steps if you are using bristle brushes. If you are using more expensive sable brushes, clean with baby oil. Your brushes will thank you!

on 4/13/2007 If you choose not to use thinner due to the environmental considerations try utilizing a specialized environmentally friendly hydrocarbon mitigation agent that works with both hydrophobic (does not mix with water) and hydrophillic (mixes well with water)consituents. You can then clean the brushes with a water based cleaning solution. This helps to prevent damage to your plumbing as well as to our environment.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.