Sunnyside Brush Cleaner is a water-rinsable solvent that restores hardened synthetic brushes and works on both water-based and oil-based paints. Most brush cleaners pick a side — they’ll handle latex or oil-based, not both. This gallon jug tackles everything from latex paints and polyurethanes to shellacs and lacquers.
The real value shows when you’re staring at a quality brush that’s gone rock-hard from yesterday’s polyurethane job. This cleaner softens dry, solid paint to return tools to working condition. That’s not marketing fluff — it’s the difference between tossing expensive brushes and getting another year out of them.
Why Dual-Paint Compatibility Matters
Paint compatibility isn’t just convenience. It’s about having one solvent that handles the whole job site. The cleaner works on latex paints, oil-based paints, enamels, shellacs, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethanes. That covers 95% of what contractors encounter in Montana homes.
Beyond brushes, it cleans roller covers, paint trays, and other painting equipment. One product for the whole cleanup process beats juggling multiple solvents. The 1-gallon size (approximately 3.785 liters) means you’re not constantly running back to the store — critical when the nearest Western Building Center might be 50 miles away.
The Water-Rinsable Difference
The water-rinsable formulation changes the cleanup game. Traditional solvents need mineral spirits or more solvent to rinse clean. This stuff rinses with water from the hose. The ready-to-use formulation requires no mixing or dilution — pour it straight from the jug.
Apply the cleaner to brushes or rollers after painting, allow time for it to soften the dry paint, then rinse with water. No complicated process. No extra chemicals. The water-rinsable after application design means you’re done when you rinse.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | 1 Gallon (approx. 3.785 Liters) |
| Form | Ready-to-use liquid |
| Type | Water-rinsable solvent |
| Solubility | Water-rinsable |
The Bottom Line for Montana Contractors
The product generally receives positive feedback, with a focus on its ability to restore old, hardened brushes. Ratings back this up — 4.8 stars at DK Hardware and 4.6 stars at Lowe’s (from 1,700 reviews).
Skip it if you only work with water-based paints. Regular soap and water costs less for basic latex cleanup. But for contractors switching between stain, polyurethane, and latex in the same day, this cleaner earns its keep. The brush restoration capability alone justifies the gallon size — one saved Purdy brush pays for the whole jug.
General warnings apply regarding flammability, skin contact, and necessary ventilation. Standard solvent precautions. Nothing that’ll surprise anyone who’s worked with paint thinners before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this cleaner work on natural bristle brushes? A: The product specifically mentions synthetic-bristle brushes and artist brushes. Natural bristle compatibility isn’t confirmed in the specifications.
Q: How long do I let the cleaner sit on hardened brushes? A: Allow time for the cleaner to soften dry, solid paint before rinsing with water. Exact timing depends on how hardened the paint is.
Q: Can I use this on spray equipment? A: Yes, the cleaner works on paint trays and general painting equipment beyond just brushes and rollers.
Q: What’s the warranty on this product? A: No warranty information is specified, but return policies commonly range from 30 to 90 days depending on the retailer.
Ready to Get Started?
Our paint & finish specialists can help you find the right Sunnyside products for your project.
More from Sunnyside
Explore All Sunnyside Products
We carry Sunnyside across all 11 Montana and Idaho stores.
