How to Clean Oil Paint Brushes: Simple Tips and Techniques

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

When it comes to painting, nothing can replace a good brush. And if you paint with oils, you know that maintaining those brushes is an art in itself. Cleaning oil paint brushes may seem like a chore, but with the right techniques, it can be as satisfying as laying down that perfect stroke of color. So, let's dive into the world of brushes and explore how to clean oil brushes like a pro.

1. Get to Know Your Brushes

Before we start scrubbing away, it's important to understand the tools we're dealing with. Knowing your brushes inside out can help you clean and maintain them more effectively.

Brush Parts

First, let's break down the anatomy of a paintbrush. It consists of three main parts: the bristles, the ferrule, and the handle. The bristles hold the paint, the ferrule connects the bristles to the handle, and the handle is what you grip. When cleaning, you need to take care of each part, especially the bristles — that's where the paint loves to hide.

Types of Brushes

From flats and filberts to rounds and fans, there are many types of brushes. Each one serves a different purpose and requires a slightly different approach when it comes to cleaning. For instance, a flat brush might need a bit more scrubbing to get the paint out of the corners, while a round brush might need a gentle twist to make sure all the bristles are clean.

Brush Materials

Lastly, brushes can be made from various materials, like hog hair, synthetic fibers, or sable. The material of the bristles can affect how the paint is applied and how to clean oil brushes. Synthetic brushes are more durable and can withstand a good scrubbing, while natural hair brushes call for a gentler touch to avoid damage.

Now that you're familiar with your brushes, let's move on to choosing the right cleaner. Because, just like brushes, not all cleaners are created equal.

2. Select the Right Cleaner

Once you're familiar with your brushes, the next step in learning how to clean oil brushes is choosing the right cleaning solution. There are a variety of options available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Soap and Water

Good old soap and water can do wonders for cleaning oil paint brushes. It's an inexpensive and eco-friendly option. Just make sure to use a mild soap, like dish soap, and warm water. Too hot, and you might damage the bristles. Remember to rinse thoroughly to get rid of all the soap residue. Otherwise, your next painting session might turn into a bubbly surprise!

Oil-Based Cleaners

While soap and water work well, sometimes they are not enough, especially if the paint has dried. This is where oil-based cleaners come in. They can dissolve the oil paint and condition the bristles at the same time. Some popular options include linseed oil, safflower oil, or specialized brush cleaning oils available at art supply stores. Just remember to follow up with soap and water to remove any oily residue.

With your cleaner of choice ready, it's time to establish a cleaning routine. After all, consistency is key when it comes to maintaining your brushes.

3. Establish a Cleaning Routine

Now that you've got your cleaning solution sorted, let's talk about when and how often you should be cleaning your oil brushes. A regular cleaning routine not only keeps your brushes in top condition but also extends their lifespan.

Clean After Each Use

Brushes used for oil painting should ideally be cleaned after each use. This prevents the paint from hardening and damaging the bristles. It might seem tedious at first, but it becomes second nature with time. Plus, it's a lot easier to clean wet paint than dry!

Deep Cleaning

While cleaning after each use is important, your brushes will also benefit from an occasional deep clean. Think of it as a spa day for your brushes! This involves a more thorough cleaning and conditioning process. It's particularly useful for brushes that have seen a lot of use or have stubborn, dried paint on them. Remember, a happy brush is a clean brush.

So, we've covered the what and the when of cleaning oil brushes. Now, let's move on to the how. Ready to master the cleaning technique?

4. Master the Cleaning Technique

So, how do you actually clean oil brushes? There's a few steps involved, but don't worry—none of them are rocket science. Let's break it down:

Wipe Off Excess Paint

First off, wipe off any excess paint from your brush. You can do this by simply dragging your brush along the edge of your paint palette. Or, for a more effective clean, use a paper towel or old rag to gently squeeze out the remaining paint. Remember, be gentle! You don't want to damage the bristles.

Rinse with Cleaner

Next, it's time to give your brushes a good rinse. You can do this in a sink or a bowl of warm water. Or, if you're using a special brush cleaner, you might just need to swirl your brush around in it. Make sure all the bristles get a good soaking. Then rinse until the water runs clear—this is a good sign that you've removed most of the paint.

Reshape and Dry

The final step is to reshape your brush and let it dry. Use your fingers to gently shape the brush back to its original form. Then, let it dry horizontally on a flat surface. Why horizontally, you ask? Well, if you dry your brushes vertically, water can seep into the handle and loosen the glue holding the bristles in place—not ideal!

There you have it: the ins and outs of how to clean oil brushes. But we're not done yet—let's talk about how to keep your brushes in good condition in the long term.

5. Maintain Your Brushes

Knowing how to clean oil brushes is one thing, but maintaining them is another. A well-maintained brush can last for years, saving you money and ensuring consistent results in your artwork. Let's dive into the key aspects of brush maintenance:

Store Brushes Correctly

Storing your brushes correctly is paramount for their longevity. Always store your brushes horizontally to prevent the bristles from bending. Keeping them in a protective case can help them maintain their shape and prevent damage. And remember, never store brushes bristles-down. This can cause them to bend out of shape and make them harder to clean in the future.

Handle With Care

Your brushes are your tools, but they're not indestructible. Handle them with care and respect. Avoid pressing too hard when painting or cleaning as this can damage the bristles. When drying, don't use a hairdryer or place them near a heat source. The heat can cause the bristles to become brittle and even detach from the handle.

Remember, the better you take care of your brushes, the longer they'll last. And the longer they last, the more beautiful artwork you can create. It's a win-win!

So, there you have it: a simple, straight-forward guide on how to clean oil brushes and keep them in tip-top shape. Happy painting!

If you're looking for more inspiration on how to get creative with your painting techniques, check out the workshop 'Creating Abstract Paintings Using Common Household Items' by Noah Ennis. This workshop will provide you with fresh ideas on how to create interesting abstract paintings using everyday items, expanding your artistic horizons beyond traditional oil paint brushes.