Artist’s Essential Guide: Properly Cleaning and Preserving Paint Brushes

Clean Brushes, Better Strokes: Why Proper Brush Cleaning Matters

Whether you’re a professional artist, DIY decorator, or weekend hobbyist, your paint brushes are essential tools of your craft. But no matter how skilled your technique, neglecting brush care can quickly turn premium tools into clumpy, misshapen messes. If you’ve ever asked, “how to clean paint brushes” effectively and sustainably, you’re in the right place.

Proper cleaning isn’t just about hygiene, it’s about preserving performance, extending longevity, and ensuring each stroke remains smooth and controlled. With the help of Bio-D’s eco-conscious cleaning products, you can care for your brushes without using harsh chemicals that harm your hands, your tools, or the environment.

Paint Types Matter: Know Your Medium

Before diving into brush cleaning techniques, it’s essential to understand the type of paint you’re working with. Each type has unique requirements for cleaning solvents and bristle care:

1. Water-Based Paints (e.g., acrylic, poster paint, emulsion)

• Most common for crafts and home decorating.
• Can be cleaned with water-based products.
• Quick drying, so cleaning must be prompt.

2. Oil-Based Paints (e.g., gloss, enamel, oil paint)

• Requires specific solvents like white spirit or natural alternatives such as vinegar (note: vinegar may take longer to work).
  • Stains bristles quickly if not cleaned immediately.

3. Specialty Paints (e.g., chalk paint, metallics, stains)

• May include additives that are tougher to remove.
• Often need stronger or longer cleaning treatments.

Each paint demands a slightly different method, let’s explore them in more detail using Bio-D’s eco-friendly products to make the process safe and effective.

How to Clean Water-Based Paint from Brushes

Step-by-step:

1. Rinse Immediately: Run brushes under lukewarm water as soon as painting is finished. The longer paint dries, the harder it is to remove.
2. Use Gentle Soap: Apply a small amount of Bio-D Fragrance Free Washing Up Liquid to the bristles and massage gently. This formula is Allergy UK approved, ideal for artists with sensitive skin.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Keep rinsing until the water runs clear.
4. Reshape Bristles: Gently reshape the brush tip with your fingers to its original form.

Top Tip: Keep a jar of diluted Bio-D Pink Grapefruit, Yorkshire Rhubarb or Mandarin Washing Up Liquid in your studio as a ready brush cleaner between colour changes. The refreshing scent is an added bonus.

How to Clean Oil-Based Paint from Brushes

Step-by-step:

1. Wipe Excess Paint: Use a rag or newspaper to remove as much paint as possible.
2. Pre-Clean: Rinse the brush in a natural, plant-based thinner (such as citrus-based solutions).
3. Wash with Bio-D: After solvent use, clean the bristles with Bio-D Washing Up Liquid to remove lingering residue and protect the brush fibres.
4. Repeat if Needed: Oil paint is stubborn; you may need to repeat the process for heavy applications.

Eco Note: Avoid traditional white spirit or turpentine, opt for plant-based solvents and follow up with Bio-D’s biodegradable liquid to reduce your environmental impact.

Removing Hardened Paint from Brushes

If you’ve forgotten to clean your brush (we’ve all done it!), here’s how to try reviving it:

1. Soak in Warm Soapy Water: Mix Bio-D Washing Up Liquid in warm water and soak the brush overnight.
2. Work the Bristles: Gently flex and separate bristles with your fingers or a brush comb.
3. Use a Bristle Conditioner: After cleaning, apply a small amount of conditioner (you can even use a dab of Bio-D diluted in warm water) to help restore softness.

In some cases, brushes may be beyond saving—but regular proper care prevents this problem.

Preserving Brush Shape and Quality

Cleaning is just one piece of the puzzle. Here’s how to keep your brushes in excellent condition for the long term:

• Never soak beyond the bristle base—it loosens the glue and causes shedding.
• Hang or lay flat to dry— bristles facing down to avoid water pooling at the base.
• Store upright in a holder—don’t leave brushes bristle-down in jars.
• Avoid heat sources—let brushes air dry naturally to prevent warping.

Refilling for Sustainable Studio Practice

At Bio-D, we believe that sustainability should be part of your creative process. That’s why our Washing Up Liquid is available in 750ml, 5L, and even 20L sizes, so artists can:

• Reduce plastic use with bulk refills
• Save money with larger formats
• Keep a steady supply of gentle cleaner in the studio or workshop

Refill stores across the UK make it easy to stay stocked sustainably, perfect for artists with regular cleaning needs.

Suitable Bio-D Products for Artists

Bonus Tips for Professional and Hobby Painters

• Set a timer during sessions to remind you to clean brushes regularly.
• Label brushes by paint type (e.g., acrylic, oil) to avoid cross-contamination.
• Keep a cleaning caddy stocked with Bio-D Washing Up Liquid, old towels, and jars for rinsing.

Final Strokes: A Cleaner, Greener Creative Space

Taking proper care of your paint brushes doesn’t just protect your tools, it supports your craft, your health, and the planet. By choosing Bio-D’s naturally derived, refillable cleaning solutions, you can make brush maintenance part of a more sustainable creative lifestyle.

So, the next time you’re knee deep in colour and wonder how to clean paint brushes, remember: a gentle wash with Bio-D goes a long way in keeping your tools in top form and your conscience clear.

Looking to stock your studio sustainably? Explore our refillable cleaning products, discover eco-friendly brush care tips, or find your local Bio-D refill station.

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