Color Swatch LabGear · CSL–G07
Cleaning up after painting
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Clean-up is where paint jobs go wrong: a brush left overnight can be ruined. The method depends on the paint. Water-based (latex) paints wash out with warm water and soap; oil-based paints need mineral spirits or a specialty cleaner. Always read the can.
Do not pour paint or solvents down drains or onto the ground. Local rules vary, so check your municipality's guidance for leftover paint, thinners and rags. Used rags with oil-based products can be a fire hazard, so follow the manufacturer's disposal instructions.
Cleaning brushes and rollers
Who it is for: anyone using water-based paints.
Remove excess paint first, then wash under running water until it runs clear. A comb and spinner make the job faster.
- Paint brush comb and cleaning toolremoves dried paint from bristles when you clean up. (Search on Amazon)
- Purdy paint brush and roller spinner (140755200)flings water from rollers after washing them. (View on Amazon)
- Bates 9 in. paint tray liners (10 pcs)makes tray clean-up faster when you switch colors. (View on Amazon)
- Amazon Basics contractor bags, 42 gal, 3 mil (50 count)hauls tape, plastic and rollers. (View on Amazon)
Oil-based and stubborn paint
Who it is for: people who used oil-based paint or let latex dry on a tool.
Use mineral spirits in a ventilated area and follow the label. Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Klean-Strip odorless mineral spirits, 1 galcleans oil-based paint from tools. (View on Amazon)
- Nitrile exam gloves, powder-free (100 ct)keeps hands clean during prep and cleanup. (View on Amazon)
- Clear safety glasseseye protection when scraping, sanding or spraying. (Search on Amazon)
- Reusable half-facepiece respiratorreusable respirator body for solvent paints and sanding. (Search on Amazon)
Wiping spills and splatters
Who it is for: anyone who finds drips on floors, trim or hardware after painting.
Wipe wet paint quickly. Test cleaners on a hidden spot because some strip finishes.
- Dried paint and splatter removerremoves dried paint splatters from some surfaces. (Search on Amazon)
- Microfiber cleaning cloths (50-pack)wipes dust and cleaner residue. (View on Amazon)
- Hyde stiff chisel scraper, 3 in.removes loose flakes and old caulk. (View on Amazon)
- Tack cloths for dust removal (20-pack)wipes sanding dust off before priming. (View on Amazon)
Storing and labeling leftovers
Who it is for: anyone keeping paint for touch-ups.
Seal the can tightly and label it with color, sheen, date and room.
- Stainless steel paint can openers (6 pcs)opens lids without damaging the rim. (View on Amazon)
- Rubber mallet, 8 oztaps paint can lids closed. (View on Amazon)
- Allway Easy-Lid paint pouring spout and lid coverpour without drips. (View on Amazon)
- Permanent markers, fine point, for labeling canslabel cans with color name, date and room. (Search on Amazon)
- Paint preserver spray for leftover painta spray some people use to extend leftover paint life. (Search on Amazon)
FAQ
- Can I wash latex paint brushes in the sink?
- Many people do with warm water and soap, but avoid rinsing large amounts of paint down household drains. Wipe off excess first and check your local rules.
- How do I clean a roller cover?
- Scrape off excess paint, wash with warm soapy water until clear, spin or squeeze dry and stand it on end to air dry. Disposable covers can be thrown away.
- How long does leftover paint last?
- An unopened can can last years in a stable environment, and a properly sealed opened can often lasts a year or more. Check for smell, lumps and separation before using.
- How do I dispose of leftover paint?
- Check your local household hazardous waste program. Many places accept liquid paint, and some allow dried latex paint in regular trash.
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