How to Care for Stain Brushes

Water-Based Stains

• 1

  Fill a clean metal can (such as a coffee can or large vegetable can) with warm water. Add a few squirts of liquid dish soap to the water as well.

• 2

  Place the brush into the water, bristle side down.

• 3

  Swish the brush around, gently bending its bristles against the bottom and sides of the can.

• 4

  Remove the brush and rinse it under clean, running water. If you still see stain coming out, add fresh water and soap to the can and wash the brush again. Repeat the rinse as well.

• 5

  Pat the brush against a clean, dry cloth to remove excess water.

• 6

  Store the brush in a dry area. Hang it by its handle so the bristles aren't touching any surfaces, which can lead to warping.

Oil-Based Stains

• 7

  Fill an empty metal can with paint thinner.

• 8

  Place the brush in the can, dip it up an down to remove the stain.

• 9

  Remove the brush from the can and spin it by rolling its handle between your palms. Be sure to do this in an area where you don't mind getting paint thinner everywhere.

• 10

  Repeat the dipping process again with a clean bath of paint thinner. Spin once more and blot the brush against a clean, dry cloth to remove excess paint thinner.

• 11

  Rinse the brush under running water. Blot it once more and hang it to dry by its handle. Store it in a clean, dry environment.