An oil paint brush-cleaning container is filled with brush-cleaning solution and used to remove oil paint from brushes.

Generally, the brush-cleaning container is a small bucket of a moderate depth, allowing it to be filled with cleaning solution that dissolves paint on brushes. Sizes vary from large versions, designed to be left where they are, to small portable versions. As brush-cleaning solution is a volatile organic solvent, the brush cleaning container is made from metals such as aluminum or steel, and lids are always used. Inside the container, there is a mesh partition a few centimeters above the bottom surface. The mesh rubs against the brushes and removes the paint, which then falls to the bottom of the container. The bar running across the top of the container is used to squeeze out excess cleaning fluid on brushes. There are also other containers, such as portable cleaners, cleaners with lids that can be completely closed with a clasp, and cleaners with spring-shaped brush stands in which brushes can be completely submerged.

To use a brush-cleaning container, first pour in the brush-cleaning fluid (enough to submerge the bristles of the brush completely). Before submerging the brushes in the cleaning fluid, wipe them with an old rag or newspaper to remove excess oil paint. Submerge the wiped bristles into the fluid, and rub them against the metal mesh at the bottom of the container to remove the paint completely from the entirety of each bristle, up to the root. After washing, wipe the brushes thoroughly with a cloth to remove the oil.

Changes in murkiness, stickiness, and smell can indicate that you need to change the brush-cleaning fluid, but the earlier you change the fluid, the better. At regular intervals, remove the partition and clean out any paint that has settled at the bottom of the container. Cleaning fluid should be disposed of with store-bought oil treatment solution available. Some types solidify the oil, while others absorb the oil into a solid medium, letting you dispose of the oil safely without worrying about the environment or risk of fire. As paint can contain harmful chemicals, however, make sure to dispose of it after checking the relevant procedures with your local government’s sanitation department.

Brush-cleaning fluid is highly volatile, so make sure to store the brush-cleaning container and the container in which you bought the brush-cleaning fluid with their lids firmly on and in a cool, well-ventilated area away from sources of fire.

Oil paint brush cleaners are available for purchase at general art supply stores.