To clean gloss paint off brushes, the exact method depends on whether the gloss paint is water-based or oil-based. For water-based gloss paint:
- Remove as much paint as possible from the brush by wiping on a paper towel or cloth.
- Hold the brush bristles down under running cool water for about 30 seconds.
- Massage the bristles with mild soap to remove remaining paint.
- Rinse under running water until clear, then spin or flick the brush to dry.
- Store the brush flat or wrapped once dry.
For oil-based gloss paint:
- Remove excess paint by wiping off on newspaper or cloth.
- Use mineral spirits, turpentine, or a specialist brush cleaner as the solvent.
- Dip and swirl the brush in the solvent for about 30 seconds to loosen paint.
- Squeeze out paint and solvent on a cloth and repeat if necessary.
- Wash the brush in warm soapy water to remove solvent residues.
- Rinse thoroughly with water, flick to dry, and store flat.
Additional tips:
- Use rubber gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents.
- For dried paint, soaking the brush and using gentle scraping or a brush comb can help loosen residues.
- Avoid harsh chemicals on water-based brushes to prevent damage.
These steps ensure brushes are clean, soft, and ready to use again for a smooth finish on future painting projects.
