Oil Paint Brush Cleaning Guide: Expert Tips

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 10 July 2023 6 min read

Keeping your oil paint brushes in good shape is the key to achieving the best painting results. This comprehensive Oil Paint Brush Cleaning Guide provides you with expert tips to clean and maintain your brushes. This step-by-step guide to cleaning oil brushes will keep your brushes as good as new for longer.

1. Start with the Right Tools

Before starting your oil brush cleaning journey, it's important to gather all the right tools. Different brush types, solvents, and cleaning accessories will impact how effectively you clean your brushes. Let's take a closer look at each one:

Types of Brushes

Natural hair brushes like hog or sable are popular among oil painters. They are durable and hold paint well, but they require careful cleaning to maintain their quality. On the other hand, synthetic brushes are easier to clean, but they might not hold paint as well. Understanding the type of brush you have will help you determine the best cleaning method.

Determining the Right Solvent

For oil paint brushes, a paint thinner or mineral spirits usually does the trick. However, if you're looking for a less toxic option, you can opt for linseed oil. It's important to remember that the solvent you choose should be able to dissolve the oil paint without damaging the brush fibers. So, be sure to pick a solvent that matches your brush type.

Essential Cleaning Accessories

Beyond the brush and solvent, you'll also need a few cleaning accessories. A cleaning jar with a coil or screen at the bottom is great for cleaning brushes. You'll also need a lint-free cloth or paper towel to wipe off excess paint and solvent. Lastly, a brush comb can help remove stubborn paint particles and keep bristles in good shape.

With the right tools in hand, you're now ready to move on to the basic steps in your step-by-step guide to cleaning oil brushes. Step by step, you'll see how simple and rewarding it can be to keep your brushes in top condition.

2. Master the Basics

Getting the basics down can make the process of cleaning your oil brushes much smoother. It's all about the pre-cleaning routine, the correct way to use solvents, and how to properly dry and store your brushes. Let's break each of these down:

Pre-Cleaning Routine

Before you begin the cleaning process, it's crucial to get rid of any excess paint from your brushes. Use a palette knife or a similar tool to scrape off as much paint as possible. This will make the subsequent cleaning process easier and also prolong the life of your brushes.

Correct Way to Use Solvents

When using solvents, remember that less is more. Submerge only the bristles of your brush in the solvent, swirl gently, and then wipe on a lint-free cloth. This way, you avoid damaging the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles together) and the handle of your brush. Repeat this process until no more paint comes off on the cloth.

Drying and Storing Brushes

After cleaning, gently squeeze the bristles to remove excess solvent, then reshape them with your fingers. Let your brushes dry horizontally on a flat surface to prevent water damage to the handle. Once they're completely dry, store them upright in a jar or brush holder. This will help maintain their shape and ensure they're ready for your next creative endeavor.

So you see, mastering the basics isn't as daunting as it might seem. With this step-by-step guide to cleaning oil brushes, you've got the basics under your belt. But let's not stop here. Next up, we're going to discuss deep cleaning your brushes—a crucial step for maintaining their durability and performance over time.

3. Deep Clean Your Brushes

Now that we've got the basics down, it's time to take it a step further with deep cleaning. Deep cleaning your oil brushes isn't something you need to do every day, but it's a vital part of brush care that can't be overlooked. So, let's dive in!

When and Why to Deep Clean

You should deep clean your brushes when they start to feel stiff, or when you notice a buildup of dried paint near the ferrule. Deep cleaning helps to remove these stubborn paint particles, keeping your brushes in top-notch condition. And remember, a well-maintained brush not only lasts longer but also makes your painting process more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning

Here's a step-by-step guide to deep cleaning your oil brushes:

Start by rinsing your brush in solvent to remove as much paint as you can.
Next, use a brush cleaning soap or a gentle dish soap. Wet the soap, then gently swirl the bristles on the soap surface. Don't press too hard or you risk damaging the bristles.
Rinse the soap out under warm running water, making sure the water runs clear before you stop.
Finally, gently reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry.

And there you have it! A deep-cleaned brush ready to bring your artistic visions to life once again. But what if your brush is past the point of a simple deep clean? Next, we'll explore how to revive old brushes that have seen better days.

4. Revive Old Brushes

Brushes are the soldiers of your artistic endeavors, and sometimes they bear the brunt of your creative battles. But don't be too quick to discard an old, worn-out brush. With the right care and attention, you can breathe new life into it. So, let's explore how you can revive and restore your old brushes.

Signs of a Brush Needing Revival

How can you tell when a brush needs reviving? Look for signs like frayed bristles, a misshapen tip, or dried paint that's stubbornly clinging onto the bristles. If your brush is showing any of these signs, it's time for a revival session.

Products for Reviving Brushes

There are plenty of products out there that can help you revive your old brushes. For instance, 'The Masters' Brush Cleaner and Preserver' helps remove old, dried-on oil paint and conditions the bristles to restore their former bounce. 'Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner' is another great option, known for its ability to break down hardened oil paint. With a little bit of patience and the right products, you can bring your old brushes back to life.

Reviving an old brush can be a rewarding process. Not only does it save you money, but it can also give you a sense of accomplishment. But remember, the best way to avoid damaged brushes is regular care and maintenance, which brings us to our final point.

5. Maintaining Your Brushes

Now that you have worked through the step-by-step guide to cleaning oil brushes and reviving the old ones, it's time to ensure they remain in top condition. The longevity of your brushes largely depends on how well you maintain them. So, here's a simple routine to follow.

Regular Maintenance Routine

Maintaining your brushes doesn’t have to be a chore. Incorporate these simple steps into your painting routine:

Wipe off excess paint: After each painting session, remember to wipe off any excess paint from the brush using a rag or paper towel.
Clean thoroughly: Use a brush cleaner or mild soap to clean your brushes promptly. Never leave them soaking in water or solvent overnight.
Reshape: Use your fingers to reshape the bristles once clean. This will help maintain the brush’s form.
Dry horizontally: To avoid deforming the bristles, dry your brushes horizontally on a flat surface.

These simple steps can go a long way in prolonging the life of your brushes. But what about common brush problems? Let's tackle those next.

Dealing with Common Brush Problems

Regardless of how meticulous you are, problems can still arise. Here's how you can deal with them:

Shedding bristles: This can be a real pain, especially when they stick to your artwork. If this happens, it might be time to invest in a higher quality brush.
Dried paint in ferrule: This can cause the bristles to fan out. To prevent this, avoid getting paint in the ferrule, the metal part that holds the bristles together.
Hardened brushes: If a brush has hardened after not being cleaned properly, use a brush restorer to soften it. 'Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer' is a good option to consider.

Remember, taking care of your brushes is as important as mastering your painting techniques. With a little time and attention, you can ensure your brushes are always ready for your next creative adventure.

If you enjoyed our "Oil Paint Brush Cleaning Guide: Expert Tips" blog and want to expand your painting skills, don't miss out on Rachel Christopoulos' workshop, 'Improve Your Acrylic Painting Skills'. This workshop will help you hone your technique, enhance your artistic abilities, and take your acrylic paintings to the next level.