How to Clean Paint Brushes Video

Cleaning paint brushes is a chore for most people. At the end of a job, you are tired and the last thing on your mind is the paint brush. But guess what, if you follow some techniques and few of Tim's tricks, you can extend the life of that paint brush for many, many years.

Most of you don't realize that the cleaning process begins before you start painting. If you are using latex paint, get the paint brush wet with a little bit of water. If you are using oil-based paint, use a little mineral spirits or paint thinner. Those fluids will keep the bristles wet up near the handle. Without that fluid contact, the paint will dry very quickly and at the end of the day, it is almost impossible to get that paint off the brush.

Once you are ready to clean the brush, remove as much paint as you can on a scrap piece of lumber or cardboard. Use soapy, warm water to clean latex paint from brushes. Mineral spirits or paint thinner is required for oil-based paints.

The trick is to submerge the brush in the cleaning solution and use rapid side-to-side motions to rinse the paint from the brush. You will need to change your cleaning solution frequently until your solution remains clear as you move the brush around.

Now if you want to ruin your expensive paint brush, here are some common mistakes. Never hold a brush upside down in a stream of water. Don't jam your brush down on the bottom of the sink or bucket to rinse it and the paint from the bristles. This will weaken and crush the bristles.

Once you have finished the cleaning process, use a comb to comb out as much water as possible. Treat your brush just as you do your hair after getting out of the shower.

Use the hole in the brush handle to hang it up on a nail after using and cleaning it. If you take care of your paint brush, it will last for many years.