What do you clean brushes with?

[herzlos]

So after a short painting hiatus I've hit that old problem of returning to a set of solid brushes. Last time I'd used paint stripper from the local modelling shop, which seemed to work at removing the paint from the bristles from my brushes, as well as the handle I was worried that it might damage the bristles/edges. I use white spirit substitute for household painting (walls, fences, etc) but I'm not sure if that'd be suitable for fine brushes?

So what do you use and do you have any recommendations?

[Parus Ater]

I use shampoo and conditioner 2in1.

[Stuart]

As I only use acryllics I use what ever washing up liquid is on the go in the kitchen and it works a treat, I also have a bottle of artists white spirit for when I use the army painter ( as I never dip, always brush on) and vfor varnishes.

[Cubster]

I have two water bottles, one with bubble bath and water, one with pure water. Brush goes in soapy stuff, brush goes in water. Nice.

For badly gummed up brushes I have a brush soap in a little round tub that usually does the trick. Then there's always soaking the brush in Dettol, but I usualy worry about it taking off the glue that holds the bristle in, so I rarely do that unless I have to.

[grant]

I have a bar of brush soap and for when I want a deep clean, I use Vallejo Brush Restorer, which is amazing. Even old brushes came back to life with it. Don't know what is in it, but it works!

[westwaller]

I have two water bottles, one with bubble bath and water, one with pure water. Brush goes in soapy stuff, brush goes in water. Nice.

Hey @Cubster I thought you used washing up liquid, what made you change to Matey?*








(*Matey Bubbles)

[Cubster]

Convenience. The bathroom's closer than the kitchen. It's all detergent, I don't care what I use - bubble bath, shampoo, washing up liquid ...

[herzlos]

I think I'll give the washing up liquid a go then. Has to be cheaper than buying new brushes every few weeks

[dfmoss]

I have been using the Sili-Coil system for years and really, REALLY like it. See http://www.thelioncompany.com/silicoil/ for more information.

Don

[Cubster]

I've had the snip.