A good brush is key to your success as a painter! Whether you prefer Natural Bristle or Synthetic Bristle brushes, the choice comes down to personal preference. No matter which type you use, a quality brush is an investment that should be taken care of properly. Dixie Belle Paint Brushes are designed to make your work easier, more comfortable, and produce the best results—but only if you treat them with care. When you maintain your tools from the very beginning, they’ll last longer and be ready to use whenever inspiration strikes!
Want to keep your brushes in tip-top shape? Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a set of happy paintbrushes in your hands!
1. Always Wash a New Brush Before Use
New brushes may have loose bristles, especially natural bristle brushes. To prevent them from shedding onto your project, wash your brush before first use using cool water and Scrubby Soap or another mild soap. This quick rinse removes any dust or bristle residue from manufacturing, ensuring a clean, smooth painting experience.
2. Keep Your Brush Fresh During Breaks
Need to step away from your project for a while? Don’t let your paint dry on the bristles! Instead:
- Wrap your brush in plastic or cellophane, securing it with a rubber band around the handle.
- Refrigerate the wrapped brush if you plan to take a short break.
- Never put your brush in the freezer—this can damage the bristles!
These simple tricks will keep your paintbrush soft and ready to use when you return.
3. Clean Your Brushes Properly
A good cleaning routine will extend the life of your brushes! Follow these steps:
- Wipe off excess paint onto a rag or paper towel before washing—this makes cleaning much easier!
- Massage Scrubby Soap or a mild soap into the bristles, rubbing the brush in a circular motion in the palm of your hand.
- Rinse with the bristles pointing down toward the sink to prevent water from seeping into the brush handle.
- Repeat until the water runs clear.
Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing—gentle care will keep your brush soft and flexible.
4. Avoid Common Brush Mistakes
- Never soak your brushes in water—this can loosen the glue holding the bristles and cause shedding.
- Don’t store a brush with bristles down in a cup of water—this damages the shape and can cause the handle to crack.
- Avoid holding the brush under running water with bristles pointing up—this pushes paint into the ferrule, making it harder to clean.
After washing, use a brush comb to remove any remaining paint residue and straighten the bristles.
5. Dry & Store Your Brushes Correctly
- Hang brushes to dry—this prevents water from pooling in the ferrule and damaging the handle.
- If hanging isn’t possible, lay brushes flat to dry.
- Once dry, store your brushes upright in a cool, dry place.
Taking care of your Dixie Belle Paint Brushes will keep them in great condition for project after project! By following these simple steps, you’ll enjoy smooth application, less bristle loss, and long-lasting performance. To learn more about Dixie Belle paint brushes, check out our blog, Dixie Belle’s Best Paint Tools of 2024.
Ready to give your brushes the best care? Grab a Scrubby Soap and a brush comb, and keep your tools looking (and painting) their best!
🎨 Happy painting! 🎨
