Painting is an exciting activity that allows you to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your living space. However, cleaning up after painting can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to cleaning paint brushes. This is where the best paint brush cleaner comes in handy.
Paint brush cleaners are designed to remove paint and other residues from brushes, making them clean and ready for the next use. They come in different forms, including liquids, gels, and powders, and are made from various ingredients such as solvents, detergents, and natural oils.
When choosing the best paint brush cleaner, it’s important to consider the type of paint you’re using, the type of brushes you have, and the type of surface you’re painting. Some cleaners may be too harsh for certain brushes or surfaces, while others may not be effective in removing certain types of paint.
To help you make an informed decision, we tested and reviewed ten of the best paint brush cleaners on the market. We looked at factors such as effectiveness, ease of use, and safety, and identified the top products that will make cleaning your paint brushes a breeze.
Best Paint Brush Cleaners
Keeping your paint brushes clean and well-maintained is essential for achieving the best results in your painting projects. A good paint brush cleaner can help you remove paint residue, oil, and dirt from your brushes, extending their lifespan and keeping them in top condition. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best paint brush cleaners on the market, based on their effectiveness, ease of use, and overall value. Whether you are a professional painter or a DIY enthusiast, these products can help you achieve optimal results and keep your brushes in great shape.
U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer
If you’re looking for a high-performance brush cleaner, U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer is a great choice. It’s an effective cleaning solution for restoring brushes with dried-on acrylic, oil, gouache, inks, and water-based paints. You can also use it to remove dried-on paint from airbrushes and all your artist tools and supplies.
Pros
- Quickly restores brushes with dried-on paint
- Excellent for removing dried-on paint from airbrushes and all your artist tools and supplies
- Keeps all your art supplies clean, long-lasting, and ready for use
Cons
- Brushes may be stiff after cleaning
- Some paint may not come off after soaking
- May need to soak brushes for up to 24 hours for fully dried acrylic and oil paint
U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer is a premium cleaner that can save you money in the long run. You will no longer have to toss out brushes with dried-on paint, as you can quickly restore them so you can reuse them repeatedly. The directions for use are simple: soak brushes as necessary and remove softened residue with a wipe, knife, or toothbrush. Cleans paint off brushes within minutes to hours for dried acrylic, oil, and water-based paint. For brushes loaded with fully dried acrylic and oil paint, soak for up to 24 hours. After cleaning brushes, wash them with mild soap and water. Reshape bristles so the brushes are ready for use.
For airbrush cleaning use, fill airbrush cup with cleaner and spray cleaner between color changes and immediately after each use. For dried paint in the airbrush, soak affected airbrush parts in cleaner overnight if necessary. Do not soak the whole airbrush in cleaner.
Overall, U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer is a reliable and effective choice for artists looking to keep their brushes and tools clean and long-lasting.
Speedball Pink Soap Brush Cleaner
If you want a brush cleaner that is easy to use and non-toxic, then you should consider Speedball Pink Soap Brush Cleaner.
Pros
- Conforms to ASTM D-4236
- AP non-toxic
- Made in the USA
Cons
- May not work as well on dried paint
- May take longer to clean heavily soiled brushes
- Some users may not like the scent
This brush cleaner is ideal for cleaning oils, acrylics, and water paints. It contains a conditioner that leaves no greasy after feel and has a pleasant smell. The soap does not contain chlorides, alkalis, phosphates, solvents, or alcohol.
In my experience, the Speedball Pink Soap Brush Cleaner works very well for cleaning brushes. It is easy to use and does not leave any residue on the brushes. However, it may not work as well on dried paint or heavily soiled brushes.
Overall, I would recommend this brush cleaner for anyone looking for a non-toxic and effective option.
Green Piece Amazing Paint Brush Cleaner
If you’re looking for a non-toxic and biodegradable paint brush cleaner, then the Green Piece Amazing Paint Brush Cleaner is worth considering.
Pros
- Powerful cleaner that works on all paints – wet or dry, acrylic, latex or oil
- Completely non-toxic and biodegradable
- Real cleaning agent that helps remove epoxy and caulking remnants and built-up dirt and stains
Cons
- May have an offensive odor for some users
- Some users may find the container size small for the price
- May leak during shipping
This paint brush cleaner is a real cleaning agent that helps remove even the toughest of paint stains. It’s completely non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for your hands. It works on all types of paints, including wet or dry, acrylic, latex or oil, making it versatile and ideal for any type of painting project.
One thing to note is that some users may find the odor of citrus offensive. However, if you don’t mind the smell of citrus, then this product is a great option. Additionally, some users may find the container size small for the price.
Overall, the Green Piece Amazing Paint Brush Cleaner is a great choice for those who want a non-toxic and biodegradable paint brush cleaner that really works.
Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer
If you want to keep your natural and synthetic brushes clean, then Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is worth considering.
Pros
- It cleans both natural and synthetic brushes safely and easily without damaging the brush head.
- Leaves no oily residue and emits a low amount of vapor.
- It is non-toxic, biodegradable, water-soluble, non-flammable, and non-abrasive.
Cons
- It is not recommended for use on painted or varnished surfaces.
- Contact with brush handles should be avoided.
- Not for use with polycarbonate or other plastic surfaces.
Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is an excellent product that effectively cleans brushes without harsh chemicals. It is easy to use, and it doesn’t take much time to clean the brushes. This product is also biodegradable, non-toxic, and non-flammable, making it an eco-friendly option.
One of the best things about this product is that it doesn’t leave any oily residue on the brushes. This means that the brushes will be clean and ready to use in no time. Additionally, it emits a low amount of vapor, making it safer to use than other brush cleaners.
However, Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is not recommended for use on painted or varnished surfaces. Contact with brush handles should also be avoided. Furthermore, it is not suitable for use with polycarbonate or other plastic surfaces.
In conclusion, if you want a safe and effective way to clean your brushes, Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is a great option. It is easy to use, eco-friendly, and leaves no oily residue. However, make sure to avoid using it on painted or varnished surfaces and brush handles.
Paint Puck Brush Cleaner Rinse Cup
If you’re looking for a brush cleaner that’s versatile and easy to use, the Paint Puck Brush Cleaner Rinse Cup is a great option.
Pros
- Multipurpose brush cleaner
- Built-in brush holder
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Silicone may stain
- Not ideal for oil-based paints
- Pricey compared to other options
This brush cleaner is designed for use with acrylic, watercolor, and water-based paints, making it a great choice for artists and students alike. The built-in brush holder is a convenient feature that allows you to keep your brushes organized and upright while they’re not in use. Plus, the silicone bristle cleaner at the bottom of the cup is gentle on your brushes and helps to remove paint without damaging the bristles.
One potential downside of this brush cleaner is that the silicone may stain over time, particularly if you’re using it with heavily pigmented paints. Additionally, if you work with oil-based paints, this may not be the best option for you. Finally, it’s worth noting that this brush cleaner is a bit pricier than some other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use brush cleaner, the Paint Puck Brush Cleaner Rinse Cup is definitely worth considering. It’s a great choice for artists and students who work with water-based paints, and the built-in brush holder is a convenient feature that sets it apart from other options.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best paint brush cleaner, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here are some of the key features to look for:
Type of Cleaner
There are two main types of paint brush cleaners: solvent-based and water-based. Solvent-based cleaners are typically stronger and more effective at removing tough, dried-on paint. However, they can also be more harmful to the environment and may require special disposal methods. Water-based cleaners are generally more eco-friendly and easier to clean up, but may not be as effective on stubborn paint.
Ingredients
When choosing a paint brush cleaner, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for cleaners that are free of harsh chemicals and solvents, as these can be harmful to both you and the environment. Instead, opt for cleaners that use natural ingredients like citrus or soy.
Brush Compatibility
Not all paint brush cleaners are compatible with all types of brushes. Some cleaners may be too harsh for delicate brushes, while others may not be strong enough for heavy-duty brushes. Be sure to choose a cleaner that is appropriate for the type of brushes you will be using.
Ease of Use
The best paint brush cleaner should be easy to use and require minimal effort. Look for cleaners that can be used straight out of the bottle, without the need for dilution or additional steps. Also, consider the cleaning method – some cleaners may require soaking, while others may be used with a brush cleaning tool.
Price
Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. While it’s important to choose a high-quality paint brush cleaner, it’s also important to find one that fits within your budget. Compare prices and read reviews to find the best value for your money.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best paint brush cleaner for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to remove dried paint from brushes and rollers?
Removing dried paint from brushes and rollers can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. One effective method is to soak the brushes and rollers in warm soapy water for a few hours. You can also use a paint brush cleaner that is specifically designed to remove dried paint. Another option is to use a wire brush to scrape off the dried paint.
What is the best product to clean paint brushes?
There are many paint brush cleaners available on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs. Some popular options include mineral spirits, turpentine, and denatured alcohol. You can also find eco-friendly options that are made from natural ingredients.
What’s the best way to clean a dried up paint brush?
If your paint brush has dried up, don’t panic. Soak the brush in warm soapy water for a few hours, and then use a wire brush to scrape off any remaining paint. You can also use a paint brush cleaner that is specifically designed to remove dried paint.
How do painters clean their paint brushes?
Professional painters typically clean their paint brushes using a paint brush cleaner that is specifically designed for their type of paint. They may also use a wire brush to remove any remaining paint, and then rinse the brush thoroughly with water.
Can I use Dawn to clean paint brushes?
While Dawn dish soap is a popular option for cleaning many household items, it’s not the best choice for cleaning paint brushes. It may not be effective at removing all types of paint, and it can also leave behind a residue that can affect the quality of your paint job.
What are some DIY paint brush cleaner options?
If you prefer to use natural, DIY solutions, there are many options available. One popular method is to mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda to create a paste, which can be used to clean paint brushes. You can also use a mixture of dish soap and warm water, or a solution of fabric softener and warm water.