How to clean a dried paint brush without chemicals

[vettechick99]

DH used the paintbrush last and obviously didn't clean it well. It's hard as a rock. I don't want to use any chemicals but want to salvage this brush. Anything that I might have at home to help loosen the dried paint off? TIA!

 

[DawnCt1]

Latex or oil? If its oil, you need chemicals; turpentine, etc. If its latex, I think you still need chemicals; Goof Off desolves latex paint on woodwork very well. I don't see why it wouldn't work on a brush. Remember the old saying, "Better living through chemistry".

 

[ORD2KOA]

For latex paint, try soaking in vinegar overnight.

 

[vettechick99]

For latex paint, try soaking in vinegar overnight.

It's latex. I'm trying the vinegar right now. It's working ok. It might be loose enough in a few hours for me to use it. I'm just priming today so it doesn't have to be pretty.

Thanks!

 

[golfgal]

I find if I take the brush outside and work it back and forth on the sidewalk or driveway it loosens the paint then soaking is more effective.

 

[minniebeth]

Depending on the type of brush it is, just even really hot, soapy water to soak it in will soften it up enough to work old paint out if it's latex. My first thought was to just pitch it and start fresh, but I know how $ paint brushes can be, and even more, I get attached to some~

 

[vettechick99]

Depending on the type of brush it is, just even really hot, soapy water to soak it in will soften it up enough to work old paint out if it's latex. My first thought was to just pitch it and start fresh, but I know how $ paint brushes can be, and even more, I get attached to some~

Yup. It's a Purdy brush, so I hate to throw it out. Plus I'm being lazy today. I'd have to travel 30 mins to get a new one. Gotta be creative!

 

[iNTeNSeBLue98]

After you get it paint-ready again, wrap it in plastic wrap while the bristles are still damp. This will keep it from drying out until the next time you need it.

 

[SpecialK]

I've used hot soapy water and a wire brush cleaner when my husband has "cleaned" paint brushes and it works well.

 

[Imzadi]

Try isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or really work in a good amount of hand sanitizer. The alcohol in it really breaks down acrylic/latex paints. It also works on paint smears on clothing.

 

[Octoberbride03]

My personal favorite is liquid fabric softener. Its worked pretty well for me. any brand will do.

 

[Sparx]

Latex or oil? If its oil, you need chemicals; turpentine, etc. If its latex, I think you still need chemicals; Goof Off desolves latex paint on woodwork very well. I don't see why it wouldn't work on a brush. Remember the old saying, "Better living through chemistry".

I oil paint. I don't use turpentine. Simple dish washing detergent works just as well and doesn't hurt your hands or smell bad.