Acrylic paint can be a joy to work with. But cleaning your brushes can be a real pain. Dried acrylic ruins brushes fast. So, finding the right cleaner is key to keeping your brushes in good shape. I’ve tested a bunch and found some top picks.
This guide will help you choose the best cleaner. You’ll find options for every need and budget. Let’s dive in!
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner and Restorer: Best overall for cleaning and restoring brushes.
- The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver: Great for gentle cleaning and conditioning.
- General Pencil Company Brush Cleaner: Good value option for general cleaning.
- Klean Strip Odorless Mineral Spirits: Effective for deep cleaning and removing stubborn paint.
- Murphy Oil Soap: A natural and gentle option for cleaning acrylic brushes.
Top 5 Best Acrylic Brush Cleaners
1. Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner and Restorer
Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner is a top-tier product. It’s designed to both clean and restore your brushes. This cleaner can remove dried paint and condition bristles. It helps prolong the life of your favorite brushes.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for removing dried acrylic paint.
- ✅ Restores and conditions brush bristles.
- ✅ Extends the life of your brushes.
Cons:
- ❌ Strong odor.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey.
- ❌ Not ideal for daily cleaning due to its strength.
Verdict: If you need to rescue brushes with dried paint, this is your go-to. It’s an investment, but worth it for valuable brushes.
2. The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver
The Masters Brush Cleaner is a popular choice among artists. It’s known for its gentle yet effective cleaning action. This cleaner not only removes paint but also conditions the bristles. It helps keep your brushes soft and pliable.
Pros:
- ✅ Gentle on brushes, preserving their shape.
- ✅ Cleans and conditions in one step.
- ✅ Mild scent.
Cons:
- ❌ May not remove heavily dried paint as effectively.
- ❌ Requires more rinsing than some other cleaners.
- ❌ Can leave a slight residue if not rinsed well.
Verdict: Best for daily cleaning and conditioning. It will keep your brushes in top shape.
3. General Pencil Company Brush Cleaner
General Pencil Company Brush Cleaner is a solid, reliable option. It’s designed for artists who need an all-purpose cleaner. This cleaner effectively removes acrylic paint. It also works well with other mediums like oils and watercolors.
Pros:
- ✅ Good value for the price.
- ✅ Effective for multiple types of paint.
- ✅ Readily available.
Cons:
- ❌ Strong fumes.
- ❌ Can dry out brushes if used too frequently.
- ❌ Not the best at restoring very old, dried paint.
Verdict: A good, general-purpose cleaner that won’t break the bank. It’s great for students or those who use a variety of paints.
4. Klean Strip Odorless Mineral Spirits
Klean Strip Odorless Mineral Spirits is a powerful solvent. It’s designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. This mineral spirit effectively removes stubborn acrylic paint. It’s also useful for cleaning oil paints and varnishes.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for removing dried, stubborn paint.
- ✅ Works well for cleaning oil paints too.
- ✅ Odorless formula is more pleasant to use.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be harsh on synthetic brushes.
- ❌ Requires proper ventilation.
- ❌ Not ideal for regular cleaning; best for occasional deep cleaning.
Verdict: Use this for brushes that are heavily soiled or have dried paint. It’s strong, so use it sparingly and with care.
5. Murphy Oil Soap
Murphy Oil Soap is a surprising but effective choice. It’s known for its gentle, natural cleaning properties. This soap can effectively remove acrylic paint. It also conditions the brush bristles, keeping them soft and flexible.
Pros:
- ✅ Natural and gentle formula.
- ✅ Conditions brush bristles.
- ✅ Pleasant scent.
Cons:
- ❌ May not remove heavily dried paint as effectively.
- ❌ Requires thorough rinsing.
- ❌ Can leave a slightly oily residue if not rinsed well.
Verdict: A great, eco-friendly option for daily cleaning. It’s gentle on your brushes and the environment.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right acrylic brush cleaner can feel overwhelming. So, here’s what to consider before you buy:
Type of Paint: What kind of acrylics do you use? Some paints are more stubborn than others. A stronger cleaner might be necessary for heavy-body acrylics.
Brush Type: Are your brushes natural or synthetic? Natural bristles can handle stronger cleaners. But synthetic brushes may need gentler options.
Cleaning Frequency: How often do you clean your brushes? For daily cleaning, choose a gentle cleaner. For occasional deep cleaning, a stronger solvent might be better.
Ingredients and Safety: Consider the ingredients. Look for non-toxic options if you’re sensitive to chemicals. Always ensure good ventilation when using strong solvents.
Price: Brush cleaners range in price. Balance effectiveness with your budget. Sometimes, a more expensive cleaner can last longer.
Scent: Some cleaners have strong odors. If you are sensitive, choose odorless or lightly scented options.
Versatility: Do you use other types of paint? Some cleaners work well with oils and watercolors too. This could save you money and space.
Environmental Impact: Think about the environment. Some cleaners are more eco-friendly than others. Look for biodegradable options.
FAQs
Q: Can I use soap and water to clean my acrylic brushes?
A: Yes, soap and water work for wet paint. But they’re not great for dried paint. Use a brush cleaner for thorough cleaning.
Q: How often should I clean my acrylic brushes?
A: Clean them after each use. This prevents paint from drying and ruining the bristles.
Q: Can I restore a dried-out acrylic brush?
A: Sometimes! Use a brush restorer like Winsor & Newton. Soak the brush and gently work the bristles. It may not always work, but it’s worth a try.
Q: Are mineral spirits safe to use?
A: Mineral spirits can be harsh. Use them in a well-ventilated area. Wear gloves to protect your skin.
Q: Can I use baby oil to clean my acrylic brushes?
A: Baby oil can help condition brushes. But it’s not a strong cleaner. Use it after cleaning to keep bristles soft.
Conclusion
Keeping your acrylic brushes clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Choose the right cleaner for your needs. Consider the type of paint, your brushes, and your budget. With the right cleaner, your brushes will last longer. You’ll enjoy painting even more. Happy painting!
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