To clean paint brushes effectively, follow these steps:

1. Remove excess paint first by pressing the bristles against the paint can edge or using newspaper/cloth to wipe it off.
2. For water-based paints, clean brushes promptly with warm water and soap (dish soap or Murphy’s Oil Soap work well). Swirl the brush in soapy water, work the soap thoroughly through the bristles with your fingers, and rinse until the water runs clear.
3. For oil-based paints, use a solvent like mineral spirits or odorless paint thinner initially, or use non-drying vegetable oil for a gentler method. Then wash with mild soap and warm water.
4. If paint has dried on the brush, soak it in the appropriate solvent or soap solution for some time before scrubbing.
5. After cleaning, dry the brush by patting it with a clean cloth and spinning it in your hands to remove water. Store the brush flat or hanging with the bristles straight to maintain shape.

Murphy’s Oil Soap combined with warm water is especially effective as it cleans and conditions brush bristles, helping them last longer. Dish soap with warm water is a simpler alternative that also works well. Avoid letting paint dry on brushes to make cleaning easier. Using a brush comb can assist in removing paint trapped near the ferrule (the metal part) without damaging bristles.