Brush Care 101: Keeping Your Watercolor Tools Fresh

Discover easy tips for cleaning and caring for your watercolor brushes so they last longer and perform beautifully.

Taking care of your brushes is an act of love—for your tools, your art, and your practice:

1. Rinse Immediately (or perhaps when you get home from a sketch outing)

After painting, rinse your brush under lukewarm water until it runs clear. Gently reshape the bristles and allow to dry horizontally.

2. Avoid Soaking

Never leave brushes tipped downward in water; it can bend bristles and soften glue.

3. Use Gentle Soap

If paint builds up, use a mild soap or shampoo. Swirl gently, rinse fully.

4. Dry Carefully

Lay brushes flat or hang them bristle-side down. Never dry standing upright.

5. Store Thoughtfully

Once fully dry, store brushes upright or wrapped. Treat them as the tools they are.

Want more guidance? Explore Must-Have Watercolor Supplies for Beginners

Clean brushes paint better. Care for them, honor them, and they’ll reward you.

Join me for a watercolor sketch retreat where we’ll practice caring for our tools with intention.