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We’ve all been there. You’ve just finished painting your walls, and they look incredible! But now you’re left with one crucial question: How do I clean these paint rollers without making a mess? Don’t worry- we’re here to make post-painting clean-up a breeze. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily reuse your rollers, saving time, money, and reducing waste.
Let’s explore the best way to clean paint rollers and keep them in top shape for your next project. With just a few simple steps, you can easily reuse your rollers - whether you've used oil-based or water-based paints - ensuring they look brand new and your painting projects run smoothly. And here's my step by step guide:
1. Scrape Off Excess Paint
Before rinsing your roller, scrape off as much excess paint as possible. Tools like the Purdy Brush/Roller Cleaner, Paintwiz Roller Cleaner Tool and Axus Stainless Steel RUT are great for this task. They have a sharp metal edge that removes leftover paint without damaging your roller and can help scrape excess paint back into your tin to reduce waste! If you're looking for more tool options, be sure to check out our Paint Roller Collection.
2. Rinse Under Water (for water-based paints)
For water-based paints, once you have removed as much excess as possible rinse the roller under warm running water, gently rotating it to reach all parts of the fabric. Rub stubborn spots lightly with your hands in warm soapy water. It’s best to rinse the roller in a bucket and let the water evaporate afterward. This way, only solid paint is left to dispose of, reducing what goes down the sink. If you’ve used oil-based paint, skip to the next step.
3. Use a Cleaner or Solvent (for Oil-Based Paints)
Cleaning oil-based paints requires more effort. The best method is to submerge the roller in turpentine or white spirits for a few minutes to break down the paint. After using turpentine or white spirits, spin or squeeze the roller to remove the dissolved paint and solvent. If any residue remains after this thorough cleaning, brush cleaners can help revive your roller. I recommend products like Bartoline Brush Cleaner, Go!Paint Clean and Go Brush Cleaner, or Zinsser B-I-N Brush Cleaner. You'll find these products and more in our Cleaning & Storage Collection.
4. Spin and Dry Your Roller
Speed up drying and ensure thorough cleaning by using the Axus Spin ‘n’ Clean Brush & Roller Cleaner. Attach the roller, spin it, and watch the excess water and paint fly out - this keeps your roller in prime condition for reuse. It's best to use this within a bucket to catch the excess spray. To keep your roller dust-free and in perfect shape for your next project, store it in the Coral Essentials Roller Storage Capsule. For more cleaning solutions, visit our Cleaning & Storage Collection.
Bonus Tip: How to Clean Your Paint Tray
If you have leftover paint that you can’t pour back into your paint tin, utilise sawdust or cat litter to solidify the paint for easier disposal (remember, do not wash paint down your sink or drains!). Once you’ve removed the thick paint, you’re ready to give the tray a good clean.
Cleaning your paint tray:
- For oil-based paint: Start by wiping the tray with a rag to remove excess paint. Pour some turpentine or white spirits into the tray to loosen remaining paint, then use a brush to distribute the solvent evenly. For stubborn dried paint, a putty knife can help scrape it away.
- For water-based paint: Rinse the tray with warm water to remove as much paint as possible. Add soapy water and use a scrubbing brush to lift off any remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a cloth or kitchen roll to keep it ready for your next painting project.
Quick Tip: Saving Time Between Coats
If you’re waiting between coats, simply wrap your roller tightly in cling film to keep the paint from drying. This saves time and means you don’t have to clean the roller until your final coat is done!
Cleaning your paint rollers doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. With the right tools and our easy steps, you can keep your rollers looking brand new. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a pro decorator, maintaining your tools is key to smooth, efficient projects - and better for the environment, too, by being mindful of the impact of rinsing directly down the sink.
So, the next time you tackle a painting project, don’t toss that roller - clean it, store it, and get ready for the next project. You’ve got this!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out on WhatsApp or any of our social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest. You can also call us at 01388 608144 or drop us an email.
Helen x
