How to Clean Oil Paint Off Paintbrushes

Step 1: Prep with paint thinner The first step to cleaning oil paint off of a brush begins before you’ve even started painting. Dip your dry brush into paint thinner, carefully shake off the excess, and then proceed to paint.
Step 2: Don’t let it dry out Whenever you take a break, wrap the paintbrush in a clean rag that’s been soaked in paint thinner. Keep the wrapped brush out of the sun.
Step 3: Swish with paint thinner When you’re ready to quit for the day, fill a container to the halfway point with paint thinner, and swish the brush around for about 30 seconds.
TIP: Don’t soak the brush; the solvent will weaken the bristles.
Step 4: Comb Run a paintbrush comb through the brush.
Step 5: Swish again Fill another container with fresh paint thinner, and swish the brush around once again.
Step 6: Rinse Fill a third container with warm water, add a few squirts of dishwashing liquid, and gently move the brush back and forth in the soapy water, taking care not to hit the bottom.
Step 7: Drip dry Hang the brush by its handle to dry.
TIP: If you failed to follow these steps and you have a brush with hardened bristles, revive it by soaking it in hot vinegar.
Step 8: Dispose of paint thinner Dispose of the used paint thinner properly.
FACT: Sixty-three percent of Americans have more than two cans of paint stored in a basement or garage for touch-ups.

Lessons in this Guide