How to Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes – 10 Easy Methods

Want to keep your brushes soft and streak-free for your next masterpiece? Learning how to clean acrylic paint brushes the right way is essential for every artist—from hobbyist painters to full-time professionals. In this complete step-by-step guide, you’ll discover how to clean acrylic paint brushes using water, soap, vinegar, or alcohol, whether you’re dealing with wet paint or stiff dried bristles.

We’ll also show you the tools you need, common mistakes to avoid, and quick home methods to extend the life of your brushes.

How to Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes When the Paint Isn’t Too Old Yet

Tools Needed for Cleaning Acrylic Paint Brushes

When cleaning acrylic brushes with fresh paint, the tools you need are simple:

• Water: Acrylic paint is water-soluble, so rinsing with water is often enough for fresh paint.
• Soap: Dish soap or hand soap works well for cleaning the paint off the brush.
• Brush Cleaner: For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a dedicated brush cleaner.
• Paper Towels or Rags: For drying your brushes.
• Cup or Bowl: To hold water for rinsing.

Optional Tools for Cleaning Acrylic Brushes

While the tools listed above are all you really need, there are a few optional tools you can use:

• Brush Combs: These can help remove any excess paint or dried particles stuck between the bristles.
• Palette Knife: Use this to scrape off excess paint from the brush before cleaning.
• Sponges: Can be used in place of paper towels for a more eco-friendly option.

Estimated Time for Cleaning

Cleaning fresh acrylic paint off brushes doesn’t take long—usually, about 5 to 10 minutes. However, the time can vary depending on how much paint is on the brush and the size of the brush.

Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Fresh Paint Brushes

1. Step 1: Rinse the Brush Under Warm Water Hold your brush under warm running water. The water will help break down the acrylic paint. Use your fingers to gently pull the bristles apart to loosen any paint.
2. Step 2: Apply Soap or Brush Cleaner Lather up a small amount of dish soap (or specialized brush cleaner) on the bristles. Work the soap into the bristles gently, ensuring the paint is broken up.
3. Step 3: Rinse the Brush Again Rinse the brush thoroughly under warm water to wash away the paint and soap. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
4. Step 4: Dry the Brush Gently blot the brush on a paper towel to remove excess water. Lay the brush flat to dry or hang it with the bristles facing down to allow water to drain away.

How to Clean Acrylic Painting Brushes Covered in Old Dried Paint (Reviving Old Brushes!)

How to Identify Brushes Covered in Dried Paint

Brushes covered in dried paint are more challenging to clean. You’ll notice the bristles are stiff and may feel crusty. These brushes may require more time and specialized tools to restore.

Tools Needed to Clean Dried Acrylic Paint

For brushes with dried acrylic paint, you’ll need the following tools:

• Warm Water: To soften the paint.
• Brush Cleaner: A commercial brush cleaner will work best for removing dried paint.
• Solvent (Optional): Isopropyl alcohol or acetone can be used in more severe cases to break down stubborn paint.
• Old Toothbrush or Nail Brush: For scrubbing the bristles.

Reviving Brushes Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Soak the Brush Soak the brush in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. The warm water will soften the paint, making it easier to remove.
2. Step 2: Apply Brush Cleaner or Solvent Apply a brush cleaner to the bristles. If the paint is stubborn, you may need to use a solvent like alcohol or acetone to dissolve the dried paint.
3. Step 3: Scrub the Brush Gently scrub the bristles with an old toothbrush to remove the dried paint. Be careful not to damage the bristles while scrubbing.
4. Step 4: Rinse and Dry Once the paint has been removed, rinse the brush thoroughly under warm water, blot it with a paper towel, and lay it flat to dry.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes Dried

What You Need: Warm water, Murphy Oil Soap or brush cleaner, brush comb or old toothbrush, paper towel

1. Fill a small jar with warm water and add a few drops of Murphy Oil Soap or brush cleaner.
2. Soak the dried brush bristles in the solution for 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Gently work through the bristles using your fingers or a brush comb to remove loosened paint.
4. Rinse the brush thoroughly under lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
5. If needed, repeat the soaking and rinsing process.
6. Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry completely.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes While Painting

What You Need: Two jars of water, soft cloth or paper towel, mild soap (optional)

1. Set up two jars—one for the initial rinse and another with clean water.
2. After using a color, swish the brush in the first jar to remove most paint.
3. Wipe the brush on a soft cloth or paper towel.
4. Dip it in the second jar for a cleaner rinse.
5. If needed, swirl the brush in a mild soap solution for stubborn paint.
6. Pat dry and continue painting with fresh color.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes With Vinegar

What You Need: White vinegar, microwave-safe cup, mild soap, brush comb

1. Heat a cup of white vinegar until it’s warm (not boiling).
2. Soak the brush bristles in the vinegar for 20 to 30 minutes.
3. Gently use a brush comb or your fingers to remove softened paint.
4. Rinse the brush under warm water and apply mild soap to remove the vinegar smell.
5. Rinse again and reshape the bristles.
6. Lay the brush flat and let it air dry completely.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes At Home

What You Need: Lukewarm water, dish soap or brush cleaner, soft towel

1. Rinse your brush under lukewarm water immediately after use.
2. Add a small drop of dish soap or brush cleaner to the bristles.
3. Gently massage the soap into the bristles using your fingers.
4. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
5. Reshape the bristles carefully with your fingers.
6. Lay the brush flat to dry or hang with bristles down.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes Between Colors

What You Need: Two jars of water, paper towel, mild soap (optional)

1. Rinse the brush in the first jar to remove excess paint.
2. Wipe the brush on a paper towel to check for leftover pigment.
3. Use the second jar for a cleaner rinse.
4. If switching between contrasting colors, dip into mild soapy water.
5. Rinse again, then pat dry with a clean cloth.
6. Your brush is now ready for the next color.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes After Use

What You Need: Running water, dish soap or brush cleaner, clean cloth, drying rack

1. Rinse the brush thoroughly under lukewarm running water.
2. Apply dish soap or brush cleaner and gently lather the bristles.
3. Massage the soap through using your fingers or palm.
4. Rinse repeatedly until no paint remains.
5. Gently squeeze out excess water and reshape the bristles.
6. Lay flat or hang to dry completely.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes With Rubbing Alcohol

What You Need: 70% isopropyl alcohol, small glass or bowl, mild soap, brush comb

1. Pour isopropyl alcohol into a small bowl.
2. Soak the brush bristles for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Use a brush comb or fingers to remove softened paint.
4. Rinse under warm water and use mild soap to remove any residue.
5. Rinse again and reshape the brush.
6. Let it dry flat. Use this method only occasionally to avoid bristle damage.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes Reddit

What You Need: Two water jars, silicone brush mat, Murphy’s Oil Soap or The Masters Cleaner, soft cloth

1. Dip the brush in the first jar to loosen paint.
2. Gently swirl on a silicone brush mat for a deep clean.
3. Apply Murphy’s Oil Soap or The Masters Cleaner for dried paint.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
5. Dry with a cloth and reshape the bristles.
6. Lay flat or hang to dry. Reddit users recommend regular care and proper drying to preserve brush quality.

How To Clean Acrylic Paint Brushes Nails

What You Need: Acetone-free nail polish remover or brush cleaner, lint-free cloth, warm water

1. Rinse the brush in water immediately after use.
2. Dip the bristles into acetone-free remover or gentle brush cleaner.
3. Swirl gently to loosen and lift acrylic paint.
4. Wipe clean on a lint-free cloth.
5. Rinse with warm water to remove any residue.
6. Reshape the fine tip and dry the brush flat for precision reuse.

Why Proper Brush Maintenance Is Important

Proper maintenance is critical for extending the life of your acrylic brushes. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of dried paint, which can ruin the brush fibers and make them unusable. By taking care of your brushes, you’ll ensure they stay in optimal condition for longer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Acrylic Paint Brushes

• Overusing Solvents: While solvents can help remove stubborn paint, overuse can damage your brushes.
• Not Thoroughly Rinsing Brushes: Leaving soap or cleaner in the bristles can cause them to become stiff over time.
• Letting Brushes Sit in Water: Don’t leave brushes sitting in water for long periods, as this can cause the bristles to lose their shape.

How to Care for Acrylic Paint Brushes for Longevity

• Clean your brushes after every painting session to prevent paint from hardening.
• Allow brushes to dry completely before storing them.
• Store brushes with the bristles facing up or horizontally to maintain their shape.

Additional Cleaning Solutions and Tips

• Using Natural Cleaning Products: You can use eco-friendly products like olive oil and vinegar as natural alternatives to traditional cleaning solutions.
• DIY Solutions for Cleaning Brushes: Mix a solution of water and baking soda for a gentle cleaning option.

Troubleshooting: What to Do When Cleaning Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, brushes may not fully recover. If the bristles lose their shape or shed excessively, it may be time to replace the brush.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can clean and maintain your acrylic paint brushes, keeping them in excellent condition for years of creative use. Whether your brushes are freshly used or covered in old dried paint, the right cleaning techniques can bring them back to life. Regular maintenance ensures that your brushes work effectively, allowing you to create beautiful art without the frustration of damaged tools.

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