As I mentioned in an earlier post, cleaning a brush properly after use makes it a better tool in the long run. Ten minutes spent cleaning at the end of the day pays off in easier and better work the next time.

Most paints these days wash out with water and washing-up liquid - but it does require a little perseverance to get all of the paint out of a brush. Let the faucet run and work the bristles with your hands until the water comes off clear. Squeeze the water out and give it a few flicks to get rid of excess water, then put an elastic band around the bristles to hold them together.

You will find that the next time you need that brush, it is softer and less prone to leave brush marks than it was when brand new. In time, the ends of the bristles become worn into the shape that best suits your painting style; this makes them a joy to use. I have seen old decorators using brushes with bristles half their original length, so reluctant is their owner to give them up and break a new set in.

If you are going to be continuing with a job the next day, you can get away without cleaning the brush. Cover the bristles with saran wrap (cling film) and hold it in place with an elastic band. This will prevent the paint from drying overnight and you will be able to carry on painting the next morning. It’s a terrible thing to do to a brush, however, and should be avoided if possible - it just makes cleaning that much more difficult in the end.

All of this can be done with rollers too, although it takes a little longer to get all the paint out of a roller. It’s worth it in the long run, believe me. And, whatever you do, don’t become one of the “oh stick it in some turpentine and then discover it’s gone hard six months later” brigade!