Thread: Synthetic brushes and cleaning

I think with any brush if you rinse it thoroughly after use that's all you ever need. If you don't that is when the problems start.

I used to do a borax treatment with my brushes twice a year and yes they felt very nice after the treatment but that had nothing to do with their performance and I stopped years ago.

I've had no issues and all my brushes are in tip top condition.

I have a rather large rotation, so no one brush gets much usage. I still do an annual cleanup, basically Dawn lather, rinse, vinegar soak of a couple minutes, rinse, soak in clear water, and dry. No idea whether it is required, but figure it can't hurt.

I do rinse well after each use, but have noticed that after they dry they will produce some very fine soap dust when fanned with a thumb, and I will notice some dust on the knot lip of darker colored handles. I rinse the heck out of them, squeeze gently and rinse more, so don't think that rinsing gets it all out. My opinion, for what an internet opinion is worth of course, is that some residue survives rinsing until the knot dries.