Brushes should be washed immediately following a project.

Dried paint can be tough to remove and may even damage your brushes.

Learn how to clean yourpaintbrushesto keep them in tip-top shape for your next DIY project.

Paintbrush dipped in glass jar with cleaning solvent

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

This will work for latex, acrylic, and even oil paint.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips?

Check the paint can label for the manufacturers recommended commercial cleaner.

Paint brush held over running faucet next to cleaning materials

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Here are a few tips you’re able to attempt to remove dried paint from your brushes.

Soak Brushes Before Cleaning

Soaking brushes may dry out the bristles.

After brushes are fully cleaned and dried, use linseed oil to condition the bristles.

Paint brush cleaned with soap and running water in sink

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Overexposure to water or another cleaner can damage the brushs bristles and handle.

Comb the bristles right after the brushes have soaked and later once theyve dried to straighten the bristles.

Dont toss your dried paintbrushesthey still have life in them!

Bottles of mineral spirit and paint thinner to remove paint

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Try soaking the bristles in warm soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes to soften dried paint.

Avoid washing your paintbrushes in the sink since paint can clog drains and may even stain your sink.

Instead, opt for a small container or utility bucket.

paintbrushes soaking in water

Henry Donald / Getty Images

Be careful to avoid oversoaking bristles in rubbing alcohol since it can dry bristles out.

Stiff paintbrush soaking in plastic cup with cleaning solution

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald