A good paint brush should be an investment; trust us, it’s worth a little bit of extra money to get a brush with quality bristles from a brand you trust. When painting a room you certainly don’t want to use a flimsy little craft paint brush, or even the tempting dollar options at the hardware store. With the right maintenance and cleaning techniques, quality brushes will last you several paint projects. Not only do they add a pro-level finish to your paint job, but they also help reduce single-use supply waste. 

Ahead, we’re breaking down how to clean paint brushes thoroughly and easily. 

Note: How you clean your paint brushes depends on what they’re made of and what type of paint you use. Here, we’re talking about poly/nylon blend brushes — what we recommend and offer at Clare — that are versatile and easy to clean. They hold tons of paint and minimize brush marks, giving you control and allowing you to cut in around trim with precision.

What you’ll need: 

Water 

Mild soap or dish liquid (pro painters like Dawn) 

Brush comb 

Soft cloth 

Mason jar (optional)

How to Clean Paint Brushes 

STEP 1 

Don’t let the paint dry onto your brush bristles; clean your paint brushes right after you’re done using them. If you can’t get to the brush right away, leave it upright in a mason jar filled with enough water to cover the bristles only. Soaking the ferrule (aka the metal part) and the handle could cause rusting or warping over time.

STEP 2 

Using your hands, place the brush under running water and work the soap into the bristles. You may need to repeat this process several times, or until the water runs clear. If there’s semi-dry paint stuck toward the top of the bristles, use a brush comb (combing from the base to the tip) to remove it.

STEP 3 

Rinse your brush under a faucet with the bristles facing downward. This positioning will keep paint from clogging the ferrule and potentially warping the handle.

STEP 4

To dry your paint brush, use your hands to work out excess water and then pat dry using a soft cloth. Hang to finish drying using the hole at the top of the paint brush. Once it’s completely dry, put the brush jacket back around the bristles — it helps the brush keep its shape! Store until you’re ready to use again.

How to Clean Brushes With Dried Paint 

If paint has already dried on your brush, don’t panic — it may still be salvageable. Soak the bristles (not the ferrule or handle) in warm water mixed with dish soap for several hours. Use a brush comb to gently loosen softened paint, working from the base to the tip. Rinse thoroughly and repeat as needed. Patience is key here.

FAQs 

Can I use dish soap to clean paint brushes? 

Yes! Mild dish soap works well for cleaning water-based paints like latex. Many professional painters swear by it for everyday brush care.

What do professional painters use to clean their brushes? 

For latex paint, pros typically use warm water and dish soap. For oil-based paints, they’ll use mineral spirits or specialized brush cleaners, followed by soap and water.

Can a dried paint brush be saved? 

Sometimes. If the paint isn’t fully cured, soaking and combing can bring it back to life. Fully hardened brushes may be harder to save, but it’s always worth trying before tossing.

Does white vinegar clean paint brushes? 

White vinegar can help soften dried latex paint when heated slightly, but it’s best used as a last resort. Follow up with soap and water to fully clean the bristles. 

Related: Now that you know how to clean paint brushes, it’s time to brush up on more painting 101! Read How to Touch Up Paint The Right Way.