If you have an old paint brush that you didn’t clean properly, you may still be able to salvage it by softening the bristles with distilled vinegar. To remove dried paint from brushes, fill a container with distilled vinegar and let brush bristles soak for 1-2 hours.

If bristles are still stiff after soaking in vinegar, boiling the vinegar can help break down dried on paint and soften your paint brush:

1. Place paint brush in a pot with vinegar. 
2. Bring vinegar to a boil before removing from heat and allowing to cool.
3. Carefully remove paint brush from vinegar and allow to completely cool.
4. Use a brush comb to remove all loose paint and rinse with clean water.  

Similar to paint brushes, you can also wash and reuse paint rollers. To clean a roller, follow the same process as you would clean a paint brush. To remove excess paint from a roller, you’ll need a paint multi-tool to gently squeeze out the paint. If you don’t have a multi-tool, you can also use a metal putty knife.

With proper care, a high-quality roller should last you three to six months or up to five projects. It’s time to replace your paint roller when the fibers begin to shed.  

Unlike latex and acrylic paints, oil-based stains and paints won’t break down with just water and soap. Instead, you’ll need a solvent such as turpentine or mineral spirits.

1. Once you’ve selected your preferred solvent, be sure to follow the manufacturer safety guidelines to protect your eyes and face while using the solvent.
2. Prepare two containers: one for your solvent and the other for depositing excess solvent.
3. In your first container, pour your solvent into the container about a 1/8 to ¼ inch high.  
4. Repeatedly dip your paint brush into the solvent until paint starts to release from the bristles.  
5. Holding the paint brush over the second container, gently spin the paint brush between your hands to deposit the released paint into the container.
6. Repeat this process until the brush is free of any paint or stain residue.
   

Now that you’ve cleaned your brush and rollers, it’s time to dry and store your tools for next time. There are a few methods you can use and even combine to dry your paint brushes and rollers:

1. Shake your brushes over a container to remove water.  
2. Blot dry using paper towels or microfiber cloths.  
3. Lay tools flat on a towel to air dry or hang tools over a container and allow to drip dry 
4. Use an air dryer to quickly dry tools you need to use right away.  
5. Use a brush spinner to quickly remove water from brushes and rollers.  
    

Once your paint brushes and rollers are completely dry, it’s time to store them. If you still have the cover your paint brush or roller came in, you can simply slip them back in. Otherwise, store your rollers in a large freezer bag and use cardboard and duct tape to create a cover for your paint brush. The idea is to keep out any dust and debris to avoid ruining your next project.