How to Thoroughly Clean a Paintbrush
- 1). Shake any excess wet paint that is still on your brush back into the paint can or container.
- 2). Rinse the brush under warm water for about two minutes. As you rinse, gently massage the bristles with your fingers to distribute water throughout. You should also rub the handle and body with your fingers if there is paint on those areas. It's okay if all of the paint doesn't come off in this stage.
- 3). Pour a small amount of liquid dish soap into the bottom of a glass or plastic container that is large enough to hold the brush. Pour hot water into the container, creating lots of suds. Then set the brush in the water and allow it to soak for at least 20 minutes.
- 4). Use the soapy water to gently scrub the brush with your fingers. The remaining paint should come off very easily. When all the paint has been removed, flush the entire brush well with cold water.
- 5). Rinse out the container you used to soak the brush, then fill it about halfway with cold water. Pour in approximately two tablespoons of fabric softener and briefly swish the liquids together with your fingers. Rinse the bristles of the brush in this solution, again massaging it into the bristles.
- 6). Shake off the excess water and gently compress the bristles with your hands to get more moisture out. Do not wring out the bristles, however. Leave the brush to air dry for several hours, and let it dry completely before placing it back in storage.
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