Cleaning your airbrush properly after each use is crucial to maintaining an efficient, operating airbrush. Purchasing a quality airbrush is often an expensive investment, and the best way to protect that investment is to do a quick cleaning to take good care of the airbrush by following these steps:

1. Loosen the airbrush’s needle chucking nut

2. Pull back the needle slightly to open up the flow

3. Put a few drops of airbrush cleaner into the color cup. One of our favorites is Vallejo’s large bottle: 

4. Angle your airbrush about 25-30 degrees down and cover the needle cap with your finger. Push down and pull back the trigger slightly to produce a back spray effect. This will clear out any material still blocking the nozzle.

5. Clean the cup with a cotton swab or makeup brush.

6. Pull the needle back and reattach the needle chucking nut. Flush the airbrush with cleanser until it comes out clear (meaning there is no paint left in the airbrush).

To do a deep clean of the airbrush, disassemble the entire airbrush according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Soak the needle cap, nozzle, and nozzle cap in rubbing alcohol (99% isopropyl alcohol). Wipe the needle clean with the same solution. Once every part is clean, re-assembly the airbrush according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Be sure to always have the most updated products and cleaning supplies for your airbrush to keep it in top condition. Take a look at the airbrushing accessories we carry for you!