A question I get asked quite often is “how do you clean your paint brushes”? I found a way that’s simple and effective and I’m going to show you how to do it!
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My favorite brushes are the Purdy XL Cub, I use them on all kinds of projects, painting, staining, painting trim in my house, and more. They are the perfect size and shape and fit really nicely in my hand. I love the slight angle to them, it helps you get in all the detail spots of anything you may have to paint.
So you use the brush, how do you clean it?
It’s simple! You run it under warm water until the water runs clear. Easy peasy! I run my fingers through the bristles to help get all the paint out and speed up the process a bit. Knock off the excess water and then let it air dry.
Here’s a short video so you see what I mean:
A tip I learned more recently, and (I think it’s brilliant!) is this: in case of a crusty brush, soak your brush in Krud Kutter. Fill a jar up to the level of the bristles and let it soak overnight. It will break up dried paint, top coat, whatever may be stuck in the bristles. Then run it under warm water and get it all clean. This will keep your paint brush clean and lasting for a good long time!
Washing brushes is never a very fun task, but at least this method is easy and effective, my two favorite things. This my friends is how I wash my brushes and keep them nice and ready for painting. Take care of these little brushes (or any synthetic bristle brush) and it will last you for years!
How do you clean oil base products out of brushes?? You don’t! Nobody has time for that! Whenever I use an oil based product I use an old t-shirt or a cheap chip brush. I don’t feel bad tossing them when I’m finished. No cleaning necessary. If you really have to clean it, pull out your paint thinner.
I hope this helps! Happy painting!
Jenni
I love the Krud Kutter tip – will definitely try that one. I also agree about using cheap chip brushes on oil based paints and sealers. I try not to have to deal with those, but every so often I have no choice. I have also heard fabric softener helps clean crusty brushes, but it didn’t work that well for me on a natural bristle brush I have. That’s the one I’ll try the Krud Kutter tip on. Thanks!