Can You Use Baby Oil to Clean Oil Paint Brushes?

When it comes to cleaning oil paint brushes, the traditional recommendation is simply to use soap and water. This method ensures a thorough clean without introducing any harmful chemicals that could damage the brush hairs, especially natural hog hair brushes. There's no better way to clean your brushes effectively while preserving their longevity.

Alternative: Vegetable Oil and Murphy Oil Soap

Some artists prefer using vegetable oil or even vegetable oil, which is not only economical and environmentally friendly but also very efficient. After using vegetable oil, you can then move on to a specific cleaning method that involves Murphy Oil Soap applied over old newspaper. The brush is rubbed and wiped through the mixture to achieve a deep clean.

Considering Baby Oil: A Gentler Yet More Expensive Option

While many artists avoid using baby oil due to its potential to degrade the paint, it's still a popular choice for those who are careful. Baby oil is non-drying and thus less likely to compromise the quality of oil paint. However, it's recommended to use it sparingly, as too much can disrupt the polymerization of the linseed or walnut oil involved in the drying process of the paint.

In-Depth Cleaning with Turpentine and Dishwashing Liquid

For a thorough clean, especially after extensive use, artists sometimes resort to using turpentine to dissolve all the oil and paint on the brush. This is followed by washing with dishwashing liquid to ensure all residue is removed from the ferrule. This method, while effective, is more aggressive and may not be necessary for standard maintenance cleaning.

Summary of Best Practices for Cleaning Oil Paint Brushes

While using baby oil is a gentler option, the traditional methods of soap and water or vegetable oil with Murphy Oil Soap are highly recommended. The choice ultimately depends on the type of brush and the specific needs of the painting project. Regular, gentle cleaning will help your brushes maintain their shape and quality over time.