Cleaning up after a paint project is an important part of the job, but homeowners often don’t give it much thought amid the excitement of transforming their space. Proper cleanup keeps your painting tools in good condition for future projects, touch-ups, and repairs. It also reduces the environmental impact of improper waste disposal. In this video, This Old House painting expert Mauro Henrique demonstrates the best cleanup methods for water-based paint and different painting tools with host Kevin O’Connor.
The Rise of Water-Based Paints
Water-based paints like latex and acrylic have become increasingly popular among homeowners and professionals. This shift away from oil-based paints has several advantages, including the following:
- Easier cleanup
- Less odor during and after application
- Lower volatile organic compound (VOC) levels
- Quicker drying time
Water-based paints are easier to use, clean up, and store. They’re also more environmentally friendly than oil-based and other paints. Their lower VOC content means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a safer choice for indoor use. Oil-based paints, meanwhile, have decreased in popularity due to their strong odor and higher VOC content.
Water-based paints offer improved durability and flexibility, too. These paints are less likely to crack or yellow over time, making them a long-lasting option for various surfaces. They adhere well to many different materials, providing better coverage with fewer coats. This saves time and reduces the overall amount of paint required for a project.
Cleaning Paintbrushes
Here’s how to clean and maintain your brushes correctly to extend their lifespan and save money on future renovations:
- Remove excess paint by wiping the brush on the edge of the paint can or a piece of scrap material.
- Rinse the brush thoroughly in warm water, working the bristles with your fingers to remove paint.
- Use mild soap if needed to remove stubborn paint residue.
- Rinse again until the water runs clear.
- Gently reshape the bristles and allow the brush to air-dry.
You can use a wire brush or comb to remove any dried paint from the bristles for a more thorough cleaning. Once clean, store your brushes with their protective covers to maintain their shape. The cover may look like packaging so be careful not to throw it away.
The type of bristles on your paintbrush may impact the cleaning process. Synthetic bristles are typically more durable and can withstand harsher cleaning methods, while natural bristles require more gentle handling. Tailor your cleaning routine based on bristle type so your paintbrushes last as long as possible.
Cleaning Paint Rollers
While Henrique suggests that cleaning paint rollers may not always be worth the effort, there are times when you might want to reuse them. Here’s how to clean a paint roller if you choose to do so:
- Remove excess paint by rolling the roller on a piece of cardboard or newspaper.
- Rinse the roller sleeve in warm water, rotating it to clean all sides.
- Use a 5-in-1 painter’s tool to scrape off any remaining paint.
- Continue rinsing and scraping until the water runs clear.
- Stand the roller on its end to air-dry completely before storage.
If you plan to use the same color again soon, you can wrap the wet roller in plastic wrap or place it in a plastic bag to keep it from drying out. This method works well for short breaks or overnight storage during multiday projects.
As with paintbrushes, different paint roller materials require different cleaning methods. Foam rollers, for example, are more delicate and may not withstand vigorous rubbing or cleaning. Microfiber and knit roller covers are stronger, and you can clean them multiple times without worrying about them fraying, warping, or becoming less effective.
Clean or Toss Painting Tools?
The decision to clean or dispose of paint rollers often depends on the quality and type of the roller and your future painting plans. Here are some factors to consider:
When To Clean Paint Rollers
- High-quality roller covers that are worth preserving
- Plans to use the same color again soon
- Short-term storage between painting sessions
When To Dispose of Paint Rollers
- End of a large painting project with no immediate plans for reuse
- Low-quality or inexpensive roller covers
- Switching to a different paint color or type
Even properly cleaned rollers may not perform as well as new ones, especially after multiple uses and cleanings. For the best possible finish, using a fresh roller cover might be the better choice.
You should also assess the roller frame’s condition after cleaning. A well-maintained frame helps your roller covers last longer, while a damaged or rusty frame may affect the quality of your paint job. Regularly inspect and clean the roller frame to keep it in good working condition and for better overall results.
Proper Paint Disposal
Responsible disposal of leftover paint and painting materials is an eco-friendly practice. Disposal regulations vary by location, so consult your local authorities before disposing of paint. Here’s how to handle paint disposal correctly:
Hardening Leftover Paint
Before disposing of paint, you must harden it completely. There are two main methods to achieve this, as follows:
- Open the paint can and allow the contents to dry naturally over time.
- To speed up the drying process, mix kitty litter into the paint to absorb moisture.
Disposal Guidelines
Once the paint has hardened, keep the following recommendations in mind:
- Check with your local waste management authority for specific disposal guidelines.
- Look for paint recycling programs in your area for environmentally friendly disposal options.
- Never throw liquid paint in regular trash or pour it down drains.
- You can often dispose of small amounts of dried latex paint with regular household waste.
Donating Paint
Before you harden your leftover paint for disposal, consider donating it if it’s still in good condition. Many community centers, schools, and nonprofit organizations accept paint donations for their projects and your contribution can help reduce waste while supporting local initiatives.
Storing Leftover Paint
Properly stored paint can last years, saving you money and keeping the color consistent for future touch-ups or projects. Here’s how to store paint:
- Clean the rim of the paint can thoroughly to ensure a tight seal.
- Use a clean rag or paper towel dampened with warm water to wipe away any paint residue.
- Securely replace the lid, tapping it down with a rubber mallet if available.
- Label your paint can with the purchase date and the room or project that you used it for to help you quickly identify it for future touch-ups.
- Store the can upside down to create an airtight seal.
- Keep paint in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
If you only have a small amount of leftover paint, you can use paint storage containers instead of the original cans to save space and make it easier to organize your workspace.
Resources
Mauro Henrique gives his best tips on cleaning up after any painting project.
Water-based paint such as latex or acrylic is widely available and more homeowner-friendly than its oil-based counterpart. If you spill water-based paint, you can easily clean it with a bucket of clean water and a rag. Here’s how to clean paintbrushes and rollers:
- Paintbrushes: Wash your brushes in a bucket of warm water. If a brush does not clean
thoroughly, rewash it with soap or mild detergent. Use a metal comb to comb out the brush bristles. - Rollers: Clean wet rollers with water and a 5-in-1 painter’s tool.
Cleaning your painting tools is only half the job. Once you’re done painting, you’ll have to decide whether to store any leftover paint or dispose of it. If you choose to dispose of paint cans, here are a couple things to consider:
- Check local laws to determine proper disposal methods, as they differ from state to state and town to town.
- Never throw paint cans away in household waste. If you do, the paint can contaminate local soil or water supplies and negatively impact communities and local wildlife.
