Paint brushes, rollers require proper cleaning

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To continue getting consistent top performance out of paint brushes and rollers, proper cleaning and storage is important and extends the life of those tools.|ret||ret||tab|

First and foremost, brushes should be cleaned immediately after use, according to Purdy, a manufacturer of painting tools. |ret||ret||tab|

For bristle brushes, Purdy recommends the same solvent used by the paint manufacturer for thinning the paint. Synthetic filament brushes can be used with all paints, but are used most often in faster-drying latex (water-thinned paints). Warm water or soapy warm water cleanings are normally all that is needed. Purdy offers the following brush- and roller-care tips.|ret||ret||tab|

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Brush comb|ret||ret||tab|

This tool is very useful in cleaning through the center of the brush, as well as straightening the bristles or filaments to prevent "fingering." Some painters even use one set of synthetic tools for oil-base and one for water-base. Changing back and forth from latex to oil and using the same brush makes cleaning harder.|ret||ret||tab|

After cleaning, remove excess solvent by spinning the brush or using a mechanical spinner. Using the brush comb, reshape the brush to its original shape, replace in its keeper and lay flat to dry. After hard use, it may be necessary to steam synthetic brushes or dip bristle brushes in boiling water to aid in reshaping.|ret||ret||tab|

Whenever possible, store brushes by hanging them. Never store a brush on its tip, which can result in "curling."|ret||ret||tab|

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Brush maintenance|ret||ret||tab|

Closely follow manufacturer's instructions in selecting the proper cleaning solvent mineral spirits or paint thinner for paint and varnish, denatured alcohol for shellac, etc. |ret||ret||tab|

Work thinner through the brush bristles, dipping up and down in container several times. Spin into waste area and then repeat process with clean container and thinner. Use a brush comb to clean to the ferrule's edge as paint residue left in brush will harden and the "set" bristles will lose their bend recovery. Straighten bristles, dry thoroughly and store in a keeper. |ret||ret||tab|

Dipping your bristle brush in linseed oil or kerosene prior to re-using your brush, will restore "life" and provide better tool performance. |ret||ret||tab|

When water-base paints have been used, warm to hot water and mild soap suds are the best cleaning solution. In many cases, more than one washing is required and a clean container, clean water wash and rinse is highly recommended. |ret||ret||tab|

Some stubborn water-base paints that won't clean up completely with water will respond to a bath of mineral spirits or lacquer thinner, followed by warm soapy water and a clean water rinse. The brush should be reshaped using the brush comb and stored in its keeper. |ret||ret||tab|

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Cleaning tips |ret||ret||tab|

Choose the right brush for the job. |ret||ret||tab|

When you need to paint edgewise, it's best to use angular brushes. |ret||ret||tab|

Don't let a brush stand on its painting tip. |ret||ret||tab|

Never "hammer" a brush to remove hard-to-get-at paint residue. |ret||ret||tab|

Never soak brushes in water. |ret||ret||tab|

Don't soak brushes in hot solvents or commercial liquid cleaners. |ret||ret||tab|

Always clean brushes thoroughly after use. |ret||ret||tab|

Store brushes according to directions.|ret||ret||tab|

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Roller care|ret||ret||tab|

Remove sleeve from frame immediately after using. |ret||ret||tab|

For water base paints, wash with soap and warm water, rinse until clean, and then dry. For oil base paints, dip sleeve into thinner recommended by paint manufacturer such as turpentine, mineral spirits, etc. |ret||ret||tab|

Never leave the sleeve soaking in water or paint solvent. |ret||ret||tab|

Dry and store with care. After washing, string roller on rope or dowel to aid in drying. Don't stand roller on its end or lay it on its nap. Dry thoroughly before storing in dust-free cabinets or boxes.|ret||ret||tab|

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