If you want a good finish on your next paint job, clean brushes and rollers make a big difference. They apply paint more evenly, leave fewer marks, and are far easier to use again.
The good news is that proper cleaning is straightforward if you do it straight after painting. The method depends on whether you’ve used water-based or oil-based paint, and a few simple habits will help your gear last much longer.
Start by removing as much paint as possible
Before you rinse anything, remove as much paint as you can. For brushes, use the edge of the paint tin, a scraper, or a brush comb to work paint out of the bristles. For rollers, roll off excess paint onto cardboard, newspaper, or the tray until it’s no longer loading up heavily.
This step matters because the less paint left in the tool, the less solvent or water you’ll need, and the easier the rest of the clean-up will be.
- Scrape excess paint back into the tin where possible
- Work paint out of brush bristles gently, not roughly
- Roll excess paint out of the roller cover before washing
Use the right cleaning method for the type of paint
For water-based paint, warm water and a little mild soap are usually enough. Rinse the brush under running water, working the bristles with your fingers until the water runs clear. For rollers, rinse from the inside out so paint doesn’t get trapped deep in the cover.
For oil-based paint, you’ll need the correct solvent recommended on the paint tin, often turpentine or mineral spirits. Use it in a well-ventilated area and follow the product directions carefully. Once the paint is out, wash the brush or roller with warm soapy water to remove leftover solvent.
Dry and store them properly so they stay in good shape
After washing, shake out excess water or solvent and reshape the brush head with your fingers. Hang brushes up or lay them flat to dry so the bristles don’t bend. For rollers, remove as much moisture as possible, then stand them upright or lay them flat in a clean area with good airflow.
Never store a damp brush or roller in a sealed bag, as that can encourage mould, odour, and corrosion on the handle or ferrule. Once dry, store them somewhere clean and dust-free.
When to call Steve
If your brushes have gone stiff, a roller has dried out with paint in the nap, or you’re not sure which cleaner is safe for a particular coating, it’s worth getting advice before you damage the tools or spread the wrong product around. Steve is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter, and he can help you choose the right cleaning method, rescue usable gear, or recommend the best tools for your next Auckland painting project.
If you’re preparing for a full interior repaint, a premium exterior, or just want practical advice before you start, contacting Steve early can save time and frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave paint brushes in water overnight?
It’s better not to if you can avoid it. Leaving brushes sitting in water can bend the bristles and loosen the glue in the ferrule. If you need a short break, wrap the brush tightly in cling film or a sealed bag instead.
How do I get dried paint out of a roller?
If the paint has fully dried, it can be hard to restore the roller cover completely. Try soaking it in the correct solvent for the paint type, then work the nap out with your hands and rinse thoroughly. If it stays hard or patchy, replacing the cover is often the better option.
Is it worth cleaning cheap brushes properly?
Yes, especially if they’re only partly worn. A decent clean can make even budget brushes and rollers last for several jobs, provided the paint hasn’t hardened in them.
Need a hand with your project?
Happy to tackle some of it yourself? Great — but for anything you’d rather leave to a professional, Steve Lunjevich is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter with 20+ years’ experience. Call or email for honest advice or a free, no-obligation quote.