How to Clean Oil Paint Brushes in 5 Easy Steps

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 20 June 2023 6 min read

Keeping your oil paint brushes clean is essential for maintaining their performance and longevity. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of how to clean oil paint brushes in five easy steps, ensuring that your brushes stay in top condition for all your artistic endeavors.

Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace

Before you begin cleaning your brushes, it's vital to set up a suitable workspace that allows you to effectively clean your brushes and minimize any mess.

Gather Your Cleaning Materials

To clean oil paint brushes effectively, you'll need the following items:

Paint thinner (such as odorless mineral spirits)
A glass or plastic container for the paint thinner
Mild soap (like dish soap)
Paper towels or a clean cloth
A small brush or comb for removing paint residue

Choose a Well-Ventilated Area

When working with paint thinner, it's essential to choose a well-ventilated area to ensure proper air circulation and minimize any potential health risks. Good airflow will help dissipate any fumes, making your brush cleaning experience safer and more pleasant. An ideal location might be a garage, a room with open windows, or an outdoor space with plenty of fresh air.

Step 2: Wiping Away Excess Paint

Before you start cleaning your oil paint brushes with paint thinner, it's essential to remove as much excess paint as possible. This will make the cleaning process more effective and reduce the amount of paint thinner needed.

Using a Paper Towel

One way to remove excess paint is by using a paper towel. To do this:

Gently pinch the bristles of the brush with the paper towel, holding it near the ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle).
Slowly pull the paper towel along the length of the bristles, wiping away any excess paint.
Repeat this process until most of the paint is removed from the brush.

Using a Rag

Alternatively, you can use a clean rag to remove excess paint from your brush. The process is similar to using a paper towel:

Gently pinch the bristles of the brush with the rag, holding it near the ferrule.
Slowly pull the rag along the length of the bristles, wiping away any excess paint.
Repeat this process until most of the paint is removed from the brush.

Regardless of whether you use a paper towel or a rag, be sure to avoid applying too much pressure to the bristles, as this can damage them and affect their performance.

Step 3: Cleaning the Brush with Paint Thinner

Now that you've removed most of the excess paint from your brush, it's time to learn how to clean oil paint brushes using paint thinner. This is an essential step in maintaining your brushes and ensuring they stay in good condition.

Selecting the Right Paint Thinner

When it comes to paint thinner, there are several options available. The most common types of paint thinners for oil paint brushes include:

Turpentine: A natural solvent derived from tree resin, turpentine is a traditional choice for cleaning oil paint brushes. However, it has a strong odor and can be harsh on the skin.
White spirit: Also known as mineral spirits or paint thinner, white spirit is an odorless petroleum-based solvent that is gentler on the skin than turpentine.
Low-odor solvents: These are specially formulated solvents designed to have minimal odor while still effectively cleaning oil paint brushes. They are ideal for those who are sensitive to strong smells or working in poorly ventilated spaces.

Choose the paint thinner that best suits your needs and preferences, keeping in mind factors such as odor, skin sensitivity, and environmental impact.

Soaking the Brush

Once you've selected your paint thinner, follow these steps to clean your oil paint brushes:

Pour a small amount of paint thinner into a clean, empty container. The amount should be enough to cover the bristles of your brush, but not so much that it submerges the ferrule.
Place the brush in the container, bristles down, and gently swirl it around. This will help loosen any remaining paint.
Leave the brush in the paint thinner for a few minutes, allowing the solvent to break down the paint.
Remove the brush from the paint thinner and gently wipe it on a clean paper towel or rag to remove any remaining paint and solvent.
If necessary, repeat the soaking and wiping process until your brush is completely clean.

Remember to dispose of your used paint thinner properly, following local regulations and guidelines, as it can be harmful to the environment if not handled correctly.

Step 4: Rinsing with Soap and Water

After using paint thinner to remove the majority of the oil paint from your brush, it's important to give it a thorough rinse with soap and water. This step will help to remove any remaining paint residue and ensure that your brush is clean and ready for your next painting session.

Using a Mild Soap

For this step, it's best to use a mild soap, such as dish soap or a gentle brush cleaner. Avoid using harsh soaps or detergents, as they can damage the delicate bristles of your brush. You'll want to follow these steps:

Wet your brush under warm running water, making sure to remove any leftover paint thinner.
Apply a small amount of mild soap to the bristles of your brush.
Gently work the soap into the bristles, using your fingers or the palm of your hand.
Rinse the brush thoroughly under warm running water, making sure to remove all soap residue.

Gently Massaging the Bristles

When cleaning oil paint brushes with soap and water, it's essential to be gentle with the bristles. Remember that the bristles can be delicate, and vigorous scrubbing can cause damage or splaying. Instead, use a gentle massaging motion to work the soap into the bristles and remove any remaining paint residue.

By following these steps on how to clean oil paint brushes with soap and water, you'll ensure that your brushes are not only clean but also well-maintained, ready for your next masterpiece.

Step 5: Drying and Storing the Brush

Once your oil paint brush is thoroughly cleaned, it's time to dry and store it properly. This final step is crucial for maintaining the lifespan of your brushes and ensuring that they're in the best possible condition for your next painting session. Let's dive into the process of drying and storing your brushes.

Using a Clean Cloth for Drying

To dry your brush, follow these simple steps:

Gently squeeze out any excess water from the bristles using your fingers.
Lay the brush flat on a clean cloth or paper towel.
Press the bristles gently into the cloth, moving in the direction of the bristle tips, to remove any remaining water.
Allow the brush to air-dry completely before storing it.

Remember that drying your brush properly is an essential part of how to clean oil paint brushes, as it helps prevent any damage to the bristles and ensures that they're ready for your next use.

Proper Storage Tips

When it comes to storing your clean and dry oil paint brushes, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Store your brushes horizontally, with the bristles facing up, in a brush holder or container. This helps prevent the bristles from being bent or damaged.
Avoid storing brushes in airtight containers, as trapped moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth on the bristles.
Keep your brushes away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as these can damage the bristles or handle of the brush.

By following these guidelines for drying and storing your oil paint brushes, you'll be well on your way to keeping them in top-notch condition for years to come. With these easy steps on how to clean oil paint brushes, you can ensure that your brushes are always ready to help you create your next work of art!

If you're inspired to explore new ways of creating art, check out the workshop 'Creating Abstract Paintings Using Common Household Items' by Noah Ennis. This workshop will teach you innovative techniques for creating abstract artwork using everyday items found in your home, opening up a world of artistic possibilities.