Cleaning your paint roller can save a useful tool from being thrown away, benefiting both the environment and your wallet. The cleaning process will vary depending on whether you used water-based or oil-based paint.
Cleaning Water-Based Paint
Step 1. Fill two one-liter buckets with warm water.
Fill two one-liter buckets with warm water. One bucket is for washing the roller, and the other is for rinsing it.
Step 2. Add 1 tablespoon of dish soap to the wash bucket.
Step 3. Remove as much excess paint from the roller as possible by rolling it on an inconspicuous part of the wall or over a thick layer of newspaper.
- If there’s dried paint on the roller, use a scraper to remove it.
Step 4. Remove the roller from the frame and dip it into the soapy water.
Take the roller off the frame and submerge it in the wash bucket. Clean the roller by hand in the soapy water until all the paint is removed.
Step 5. Place the cleaned roller in the rinse bucket and rinse it again until it’s clean.
Put the cleaned roller into the rinse bucket and wash it again until it’s completely clean. You can also use a garden hose to wash all the paint off the roller.
Step 6. Wrap the roller in a clean towel to remove excess water.
Wrap the roller in a clean towel to absorb excess water. Let the roller dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably hanging, to avoid damaging the nap. Once the roller is completely dry, you can store it away.
Cleaning Oil-Based Paint
Step 1. Fill a 5-liter bucket two-thirds full with paint thinner.
Step 2. Remove the roller from the frame and place it in the paint thinner.
Step 3. Roll the roller in the paint thinner, then squeeze it over the bucket.
Step 4. Continue dipping the roller in the paint thinner and squeezing it until it’s completely clean.
Step 5. Shake out any remaining paint and put the roller back on the frame.
Step 6. Spin the roller on the frame until it’s slightly damp.
Spin the roller on the frame until it is slightly damp. Since paint can splash into your eyes during this process, it’s recommended to wear goggles.
Step 7. Remove the roller and store it in a plastic bag, similar to a bread bag.
Step 8. Pour the used paint thinner back into its container using a funnel for future use.
Pour the used paint thinner back into its container using a funnel and save it for future use. If you do not wish to keep the used thinner, dispose of it according to your local regulations.
