Place the stiff brush bristles in a cup of warm vinegar or a 1:4 mix of fabric softener and water.
Let it soak for 20–60 minutes, depending on how hardened the brush is.
2. Loosen with Heat (For Really Hard Brushes)
Heat vinegar in a small pot (but do not boil).
Dip the bristles into the hot vinegar for 5–10 minutes to dissolve stubborn dried paint.
3. Comb Out the Paint
Use an old comb, fork, or brush cleaning tool to gently scrape out the softened paint.
Always work from the base of the bristles outward to avoid damaging the brush.
4. Wash and Rinse
Wash the brush thoroughly with warm soapy water.
Rinse until the water runs completely clear.
5. Dry and Reshape
Blot with paper towels.
Reshape bristles with your fingers.
Lay the brush flat to dry or hang with bristles facing down to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Always clean paint brushes immediately after use to prevent stiffness. Store them with bristles covered or in their original packaging to keep their shape for longer.
