It's important to clean and care for your brushes after each use. We keep a bar of Scrubby Soap and Brush Soap (best for natural bristle brushes) next to the sink in our workshop and our house. Scrubby Soap and Brush Soap are not only great for cleaning your brushes after each use, but also for cleaning your hands, spot cleaning clothes (removes paint), and so much more. We have also used Dawn Dish Soap for cleaning brushes but it can be a bit harsh on your hands.
If you allow a water based product to dry in your brush, then follow these steps.
- Soak the brush for at least 8-12 hours in Murphy's Oil Soap and warm water or bring vinegar to a boil and pour into a disposable or plastic lined tray and submerge the brush for about 20 minutes.
- Use a paint brush comb along with Scrubby Soap or Brush Soap and warm water to finish removing the paint residue from the bristles.
- If you don't have a paint brush comb available, you can also use a stiff toothbrush or flea comb.
If you were using an oil based product, then follow these steps.
- Soak the brush for at least 8-12 hours in mineral spirits .
- Always use mineral spirits in a well ventilated area, even though this is low odor.
- Use a paint brush comb along with Scrubby Soap or Brush Soap and warm water finish removing the paint residue from the bristles.