5 Ways to Clean Oil Brushes Without Solvents

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 10 July 2023 5 min read

As an artist, your oil brushes are not just tools, but an extension of your creativity. Keeping them clean and in good condition is essential for their longevity and the quality of your artwork. The most common way to clean oil brushes is by using harsh solvents, which can be harmful to you and the environment. Luckily, there are alternative methods for cleaning oil brushes without solvents that are just as effective and much safer. In this blog, we will share five easy and eco-friendly ways to keep your brushes clean and ready for your next masterpiece.

1. Use Soap and Water

One of the simplest and most accessible ways to clean oil brushes without solvents is the good old soap and water method. This approach is not only budget-friendly but also gentle on your brushes. Let's break it down into three easy steps.

Choose the Right Soap

Not all soaps are created equal, especially when it comes to cleaning oil brushes. Opt for a mild, non-abrasive soap—like a simple dish soap or a specialized brush soap. These soaps are designed to break down oil and grease, making them ideal for removing stubborn oil paint from your brushes.

Correct Water Temperature

When cleaning oil brushes, the temperature of the water plays a significant role. Warm water is your best bet—it helps to dissolve and wash away the oil paint without damaging the bristles. However, avoid using hot water as it could loosen the glue holding the bristles in place, causing them to fall out over time.

Cleaning Method

Start by rinsing the brushes under warm water to remove any excess paint. Now, gently swirl your brush in the soap, making sure to work it into the bristles. Rinish and repeat until the water runs clear. Remember: the goal is to remove the paint without damaging the bristles, so avoid vigorous scrubbing or squeezing. Once clean, gently reshape the bristles and lay the brushes flat to dry.

2. Apply Linseed Oil

Another effective way of cleaning oil brushes without solvents is by using linseed oil. This method not only cleans your brushes but also conditions the bristles, keeping them soft and flexible. Let's see how this is done.

Select Quality Linseed Oil

When it comes to linseed oil, quality matters. You want to choose a refined, artist-grade linseed oil, as it is free of any impurities that could potentially harm your brushes. Avoid linseed oils that are intended for other uses, such as woodworking, as they may contain additives that are not safe for your brushes.

Application Process

To clean your brushes with linseed oil, first, remove any excess paint by wiping the brush on a rag. Then, dip the brush into the linseed oil and work it into the bristles using your fingers. This will help to loosen and lift the paint from the bristles. Wipe the brush on a clean rag to remove the loosened paint, and repeat the process until the brush is clean.

Drying Time

Once your brushes are clean, it's important to let them dry properly. Hang them up, bristles down, in a well-ventilated area. This allows the excess linseed oil to drip out and air to circulate around the bristles, preventing mildew growth. Remember, drying times may vary, so make sure your brushes are completely dry before using them again.

3. Utilize Vinegar

Did you know your kitchen pantry holds the answer to cleaning oil brushes without solvents? That's right! Vinegar is not just for salads—it's a great tool for artists as well.

Vinegar Type

For this method, white distilled vinegar works best. It's both effective and affordable. No need for any fancy, high-end vinegar—your standard grocery store brand will do the trick.

Soaking Duration

Start by pouring enough vinegar into a jar to cover the bristles of your brush. Then, place your brush in the vinegar and let it soak. You might be wondering, "how long should I leave it?" Well, for stubborn oil paint, you may need to let it soak overnight. But don't worry, vinegar is mild and won't harm your brushes.

Rinsing Process

After soaking, you'll find the paint will come off easily when you rinse the brush under warm water. Use your fingers to gently remove any remaining paint from the bristles. Finally, rinse the brush until the water runs clear—this is your sign that the brush is clean. Dry your brushes thoroughly before their next use to keep them in top shape.

4. Try Dishwasher Detergent

Yes, you read that right. The same dishwasher detergent that works wonders on your lasagna-stuck dishes can also aid in cleaning oil brushes without solvents. Intriguing, isn't it?

Detergent Selection

Any household dishwasher detergent will do the job. However, it's best to opt for a phosphate-free one, as these are gentler on your brushes. Remember, we're trying to clean the brushes, not destroy them!

Mixing Ratio

For this method, you'll need to mix the detergent with warm water. But how much detergent, you ask? A good rule of thumb is to use about a tablespoon of detergent for every cup of water. This mixture will be potent enough to dissolve the oil paint without being too harsh on the brush bristles.

Cleaning Procedure

Submerge your brush in the detergent mixture and gently stir for a few minutes. This will allow the detergent to work its way into the bristles and break down the oil paint. After this, rinse your brush under warm water until the water runs clear. Dry them thoroughly, and voila! Your brushes are ready for your next masterpiece.

5. Use Baby Oil

Surprised to see baby oil on this list? Don’t be. Not only is it gentle and non-toxic, but baby oil is also a fantastic resource for cleaning oil brushes without solvents. Here's how to do it.

Baby Oil Advantages

Why baby oil, you ask? Well, it's simple. Baby oil has the ability to dissolve oil-based paints, making it a great cleaning agent. Plus, it's gentle on the brush bristles, ensuring they remain in top condition for longer.

Cleaning Guide

First, remove excess paint from the brush with a paper towel. Then, pour a small amount of baby oil into a bowl and swirl your brush in it. You'll see the leftover paint start to dissolve. Rinse the brush under warm water and repeat the process if necessary. Remember, patience is key when cleaning oil brushes without solvents.

Post-Cleaning Care

After cleaning, it's important to reshape the bristles and let the brush dry horizontally. This will prevent water from soaking into the handle, which could cause it to crack. Plus, storing brushes bristle-side up can distort their shape over time.

So, there you have it—five effective ways to clean oil brushes without solvents. Remember, taking care of your brushes can extend their lifespan and keep them in good condition for your next project. Happy painting!

If you enjoyed learning about cleaning oil brushes without solvents, consider exploring the workshop 'Creating Abstract Paintings Using Common Household Items' by Noah Ennis. This workshop will teach you innovative techniques for creating stunning abstract art using everyday items, allowing you to expand your artistic horizons while minimizing your environmental impact.