How to clean paint brushes, rollers and spray guns

Before you start cleaning, check whether you’ve been using water-based or oil-based paint, as this will determine the cleaning method. Water-based paints can generally be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent, while oil-based paints require a suitable paint thinner.

Wear the protective equipment recommended on the labels, follow the paint and cleaning-product instructions and work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents. Don’t pour paint, paint thinner or cleaning liquids down household drains.

Remove as much excess paint as possible by scraping the paint brush against the inside of the paint tin or tray.

To clean water-based paint from brushes, use warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Work the bristles gently with your fingers or a brush comb until they’re clean. Pay particular attention to the base of the bristles near the ferrule, which is the metal section that holds the bristles in place.

To clean oil-based paint from brushes, use the recommended paint thinner or paint brush cleaner first. Then wash the brush with warm, soapy water if directed by the manufacturer. Shake off excess water, reshape the bristles and, where possible, hang the brush to dry before storing.

Use a paint roller scraper to remove as much excess paint as possible, scraping it back into the paint tray or tin if the paint is still usable.

To clean a paint roller after use with water-based paint, rinse the roller with warm water and gently work the fibres until they’re clean. For oil-based paint, use the paint thinner or paint roller cleaner recommended on the paint label.

Once the roller is clean, remove excess liquid by spinning the roller or using a roller spinner. Don’t twist or wring the roller cover, as this can damage the fibres and affect the finish on future painting projects. Stand the roller cover upright or hang it to dry thoroughly before storing.

Empty any remaining paint back into the tin if it’s still usable, then clean the spray gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Different spray guns and coatings may require different cleaning methods, so use only the recommended cleaning solution and follow the instructions before removing any parts.

Flush the system with the recommended cleaner until it runs clear, paying particular attention to the nozzle, needle, filter and paint container where paint can build up. If the spray gun has removable filters or spray tips, clean them separately as directed before reassembling the unit.

A spray gun cleaning kit can help clean small components, but it should only be used as directed by the spray-gun manufacturer. Cleaning the spray gun promptly will help prevent paint drying inside the system. 

Allow brushes, rollers and spray-gun components to dry completely before putting them away.

When storing paint brushes and rollers, reshape the brush bristles and keep the tools in a clean, dry place. Stand roller covers upright or hang them so the fibres aren’t flattened during storage.

Avoid pouring leftover paint, paint thinner or cleaning liquids down household drains. Dispose of paint and cleaning waste according to the product instructions and your local council’s guidance.

Now that your painting tools are clean and ready for their next job, check out our guide on how to paint a picket fence with a spray gun for practical step-by-step advice.

How do I know whether to use water or paint thinner?

Check the paint label first. Water-based paint can generally be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent, while oil-based paint usually requires the paint thinner or cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

Don’t rely on the colour or appearance of the paint to identify it. The paint label provides the information needed to choose a suitable cleaning method.

How can I remove dried paint from brushes?

Start by gently working dried paint flakes out of the bristles with a brush comb or suitable wire brush, moving from the base towards the tips. Use light pressure so you don’t damage or pull out the bristles.

For paint that has hardened through the brush, check whether a suitable paint brush cleaner is recommended for that paint and brush type. Follow the cleaner’s label directions rather than soaking the brush in an unsuitable product. This technique for dried flakes is supported by the existing Bunnings brush-cleaning article.

Can paint-cleaning water go down a household drain?

Don’t pour leftover paint, paint thinner or paint-contaminated cleaning liquid down a household drain. Follow the product instructions and check your local council’s guidance for disposal options in your area.

Remove as much usable paint as possible before washing the tool. This reduces the amount of paint entering the cleaning liquid.

How should I store paint brushes and rollers?

Let paint brushes and rollers dry completely before storing them in a clean, dry place. Reshape brush bristles, and stand roller covers upright or hang them so the fibres don’t become flattened.

If the brush still has its original cover, replace it once the brush is dry to help protect the bristles. The existing brush-cleaning guidance also recommends dry storage away from direct sunlight and moisture.

What should I use to clean a paint spray gun?

Use the cleaning solution and method specified by the spray-gun manufacturer. The correct cleaner depends on the coating and spray-gun system, so one generic cleaner may not suit every setup.

A spray gun cleaning kit can help reach the nozzle, needle, filter and other small parts when the manufacturer’s instructions allow it. Clean removable parts and reassemble the unit only as directed.