How to Clean Paint Brushes Properly at Home

Why Clean Paint Brushes Matter in Art

Whether you’re using a premium set of brushes or a starter kit, taking care of your paint brushes is essential. Clean brushes last longer, perform better, and help maintain the clarity of your artwork.

Uncleaned brushes can hold residual paint that unintentionally blends into future brushstrokes. They can cause muddiness in colours, introduce unwanted texture, and ultimately affect the final result. Plus, poorly maintained brushes warp, lose shape, or crack, leading to more money spent replacing them. 

At Kiki's Club, we believe that great results come from a mix of creativity and care. This guide will help you maintain your brushes for years to come.

What You Need to Clean Paint Brushes

Cleaning your brushes doesn’t have to be messy or complicated. With just a few basic tools and simple steps, you can keep your brushes soft, smooth, and ready for your next painting session. Whether you're working through a paint-by-numbers kit or experimenting with new techniques, knowing how to clean your paint brushes properly helps protect your tools and your art.

Here’s everything you’ll need to get started.

Gather Your Materials

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the necessary materials:

1. Paint thinner or solvent appropriate for the type of paint used (such as turpentine for oil-based paints or water for water-based paints like the ones we use a Kiki's).
2. A container large enough to hold the paint brushes while cleaning.
3. Mild soap or brush cleaner.
4. Warm water.
5. Paper towels or a clean cloth.
6. Optional: a brush comb for deeper cleaning

How to Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes

Remove Excess Paint

Whichever type of paint you're using, start by removing as much excess paint from the brush as possible. You can do this by gently scraping the brush against the edge of the paint palette or container. Be careful not to deform the bristles during this process, especially if they're delicate.

For Paint by Numbers and Water-Based Paints

Most Kiki’s Club paint by numbers kits use water-based acrylic paints. Here’s how to clean your brushes effectively:

1. Rinse with lukewarm water and hold the brush under the water. Avoid hot water because it can warp the bristles.
2. Add a gentle soap: Work it into the bristles with your fingers. Gently massage the bristles with your fingers, working the paint out of the brush. You’ll see colour lift as the soap does its job.
3. Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and there are no traces of paint left.
4. Dry the brush: Gently squeeze the bristles to remove excess water. Then reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat or hang it upside down to dry. Avoid drying brushes upright as water can drip down and damage the ferrule and handle.

💡 Tip: Never leave brushes standing in water as this can damage the ferrule and warp wooden handles.

Additional Tips

• Clean your brushes immediately after use to prevent paint from drying and hardening on the bristles.
• Avoid using hot water as it can damage the bristles.
• Use separate brushes for different types of paint to prevent cross-contamination.
• Store cleaned brushes in a well-ventilated area to ensure they dry properly and prevent mildew growth.

Storing Paint

Preserve any remaining paint for future touch-ups by storing it properly. For extended shelf life, ensure the paint can is tightly sealed. To create an airtight seal on a paint can, clean the rim thoroughly, replace the lid, position a wooden block atop, and gently tap it down with a hammer. Immediately invert the can to establish an airtight seal, preventing skinning.

For maintaining leftover paint, clear any paint residue from the underside of the lid before securely sealing it and storing the can in a dry, cool location. Alternatively, consider utilizing touch-up kits, which utilize plastic containers for storing small paint quantities, facilitating direct application with an applicator. 

Look After Your Brushes

Caring for your brushes can ensure their longevity, potentially lasting a lifetime. While it may seem like a tedious task, investing time in maintaining your brushes is invaluable, especially considering the effort and money spent in acquiring ones that suit your needs. Establishing a regular cleaning routine proves beneficial in the long term, as with proper upkeep, your brushes can serve you for many years.

Even brushes that appear worn or clogged can still hold value as creative tools. Instead of discarding them immediately, explore their potential by experimenting with the marks they make or consider altering their shape by trimming them. You may discover that these seemingly worn-out brushes contribute unique textures and effects to your artwork, enhancing its visual interest and depth.

Brush Care Matters

Cleaning paint brushes is an essential part of maintaining your artistic tools and ensuring their longevity. By following these step-by-step methods and tips, you can effectively clean your paint brushes and keep them in excellent condition for future use. 

Whether you're painting for relaxation, routine, or ritual, please remember that clean brushes make every stroke smoother. Treat them well, and they’ll return the favour... canvas after canvas.