The method of cleaning children’s painting brushes can vary depending on the type of paint used. Here are some general cleaning suggestions:
First, preparations before cleaning
Prepare the cleaning tools
Prepare a container, such as a plastic bowl or a small basin, to hold the cleaning water or solvent.
Prepare tissues or rags to dry the paintbrushes.
If oil-based pigments are used, it may be necessary to prepare special cleaning agents, such as turpentine and pen soap.
Second, cleaning steps
Preliminary cleaning
Before cleaning, wipe off as much paint on the brush as possible with a paper towel or cloth. This can reduce the difficulty and water consumption during cleaning.
Classified cleaning
Water-based paints: If water-based paints (such as acrylic paints, watercolor paints, etc.) are used, the brushes can be directly washed with warm water. Soak the paintbrush in warm water and gently rub the bristles to dissolve the paint and let it flow away with the water.
Oil-based pigments: If oil-based pigments are used, turpentine, mineral oil or special pen soap can be used for cleaning. Soak the brush in the cleaning agent and gently rub the bristles to dissolve the paint. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Rinsing bristles
No matter which pigment is used, after cleaning, the bristles should be rinsed with clean water to ensure there is no residual pigment or cleaning agent. You can gently massage the bristles with your fingers to help remove stubborn pigment residues.
Dry the brush
Gently dry the brush with a paper towel or cloth to prevent the bristles from deforming. The paintbrush can be laid flat or hung in a well-ventilated place to dry naturally.
Third, precautions for cleaning
Avoid using water that is too hot: Water that is too hot may deform or damage the bristles, affecting the service life of the brush.
Avoid using hard objects to wipe: Do not use hard objects (such as steel wool balls, brushes, etc.) to wipe the brush to prevent scratching the bristles.
Timely cleaning: After using the brush, it should be cleaned promptly to prevent the paint from drying up on the bristles, which would increase the difficulty of cleaning.
Replace the brush regularly: As the usage time increases, the bristles of the brush may wear out or deform. To maintain the painting effect, it is recommended to replace the paintbrush regularly.
Fourth, cleaning techniques for special pigments
Acrylic paint: If the acrylic paint dries up on the brush, you can first soak the brush in a wet paper towel or cloth to soften it, and then wash it with warm water.
Oil paints: Oil paints are rather stubborn and can be cleaned with turpentine or mineral oil. If the paint has dried up on the bristles, you can first gently scrape off the surface paint with a scraper and then clean it.
Special effect pigments: such as glitter powder, sequins and other special effect pigments, extra care may be needed during cleaning to avoid pigment residue on the bristles or clogging them.
Fifth, maintenance after cleaning
Keep dry: After cleaning, place the brush in a well-ventilated area to dry naturally to prevent the bristles from getting damp and moldy.
Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of the brush, such as applying an appropriate amount of hair conditioner or olive oil, can make the bristles softer and smoother.