Cleaning oil painting brushes well keeps them usable for years. The basic method is the same whichever products you choose: remove paint, break down what is left, wash with soap and water, reshape and dry. This guide also covers safer solvent habits and what to do with waste.
Why brush cleaning matters
Oil paint does not dry by evaporation, but it does harden over time. Paint left in the bristles near the ferrule can set and ruin the brush. Cleaning promptly after each session protects your tools. For help choosing brushes in the first place, see what type of brush to use for oil paint. If you are new to the medium, our beginner’s guide gives context.
Step-by-step cleaning
- Wipe off excess paint. Use a rag or paper towel, pulling from the ferrule toward the tip.
- Break down the remaining paint. Use either a solvent method or a solvent-free method (see below). Swirl the brush gently and wipe again.
- Wash with soap. Lather mild soap, such as brush soap or dish soap, in your palm and work it into the bristles with lukewarm water.
- Rinse until the water runs clear and no color remains.
- Reshape and dry. Shape the bristles with your fingers and dry the brush flat or with bristles pointing down. Avoid standing it on its bristles.
Solvent method
Odorless mineral spirits or turpentine can dissolve paint from the bristles. Swirl briefly, then wipe. Work in a ventilated area, keep the container closed, and follow product safety information. See working with oil paint for ventilation advice.
Solvent-free method
Many painters wipe the brush, then work it through a plain drying oil such as safflower, walnut or linseed (food-grade oils without added antioxidants are often used), wipe again, and finish with soap and water. This avoids solvent fumes, though oily rags still need careful handling. Wipe as much oil as you can out of the bristles before painting, since leftover oil slows drying.
How to use white spirit and mineral turpentine
White spirit is a petroleum-based solvent, similar to mineral spirits. Mineral turpentine is also a petroleum-based product in some regions, and is different from gum turpentine, which is made from pine resin. Use small amounts in a sealed jar, avoid skin contact, and read the label.
Can you wash oil paint down the sink?
It is generally advised not to. Paint and solvents can harm plumbing and the environment. Wipe as much paint as possible onto rags first, and treat used solvent and rags according to local regulations, which often involve a hazardous waste collection point. Check with your local authority.
Reusing solvent
Some painters let solvent settle in a closed jar so pigment sinks, then pour off the clear liquid for reuse. Dispose of the sludge according to local rules.
What do conservators use to clean oil paintings?
Cleaning a finished painting is a different task from cleaning brushes and is best left to professional conservators, who test materials carefully. Do not use household cleaners on old or valuable paintings.
Looking after brushes between sessions
If you will paint again the next day, some painters wipe brushes and store them wrapped or in oil, but regular cleaning is safer for long-term brush life. Do not leave brushes resting on their bristles.
Cleaning water-mixable oils
Water-mixable oils are designed to clean with water and soap, though instructions vary by brand.
Tools for cleanup
A jar with a lid, rags, brush soap and a brush holder or flat drying surface are useful. See the materials checklist for a complete starter list, and beginner oil painting tips for more habits.