Soaking the brush in warm soapy water
If you have a paint brush with dried paint and you’re wondering how to clean it, one of the easiest methods is to soak the brush in warm soapy water. Start by filling a container or sink with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Swirl the brush in the soapy water, making sure the bristles are fully submerged. Let it soak for about 15-30 minutes.
Scrubbing the bristles
After the brush has soaked, take it out of the soapy water and use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the bristles. This will help loosen any remaining dried paint. Pay close attention to the base of the bristles where the paint tends to gather. Continue scrubbing until all the paint has been removed.
Using vinegar to remove stubborn paint
If there is still some stubborn paint on the bristles, you can try using vinegar to break it down. Fill a small bowl or cup with white vinegar and soak the brush in it for a few minutes. Then, use the scrub brush or toothbrush to scrub the bristles again. The acidity of the vinegar will help dissolve the dried paint.
Brushing with a wire brush
In case the paint is particularly stubborn and won’t come off with vinegar or scrubbing, you can try using a wire brush. Make sure you have a brush with bristles that are stiff but not too harsh. Gently brush the bristles of the paint brush in the same direction as the bristles, taking care not to damage them. Use short strokes and apply moderate pressure until the paint starts to come off.
Conditioning the bristles
Once you have successfully removed the dried paint from the brush, it’s important to condition the bristles to keep them in good shape. Rinse the brush thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or vinegar. Then, use a comb or your fingers to gently reshape the bristles. Let the brush air dry before storing it in a clean and dry place.
