How to Clean and Store Paint Rollers

Cleaning and storing paint rollers properly helps to ensure your painting project is free of debris the next time you’re ready to roll.

Cleaning paint roller with a scraper.
Get the tips you need to maintain the life of your rollers for future painting projects.
High-quality rollers can be used up to four times, so follow these tips to make the most of them!

Need help selecting a paint roller? Check out our guide.
A paint roller being cleaned on a box. A paint roller being cleaned on a box.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning a Paint Roller

Step #1: Scrape off excess paint

The best way to clean a roller cover is to start by scraping any excess paint off the roller back into your paint tray with a putty knife. Then roll whatever paint might be left onto a piece of scrap paper.


Helpful Tips

• Clean your roller immediately after using it for the best outcome.
• You can also use the curved edge of a 5-in-1 tool to scrape paint off the roller. Consult your local Benjamin Moore retailer for advice on tools.
A homeowner cleaning a paint roller and cage in a bucket. A homeowner cleaning a paint roller and cage in a bucket.

Step #2: Wash the roller frame

If you’re cleaning a roller after using acrylic- or latex-based paint, like AURA®, Regal® or ben® Interior paint, remove the roller cover and place it into a bucket of hot water with a few drops of dish detergent in it. Place the roller frame into the bucket as well. Work the paint out of the roller cage and handle using a firm-bristle brush to remove paint patches lodged in the frame. Rinse well.


Helpful Tips

• The hotter the water, the better. Just be sure to wear rubber gloves for comfort and safety.
• Avoid using too much soap.
A homeowner rinsing a roller cover in a sink. A homeowner rinsing a roller cover in a sink.

Step #3: Wash the roller cover

Work the paint out of the roller cover in the bucket with your hands. When all of the paint is removed, rinse the roller thoroughly with warm water.


Helpful Tip

To clean a roller after using oil-based paint, place the cover in a small container of paint thinner, scraping any excess paint off the roller with a putty knife or the curved edge of a 5-in-1 tool. Let dry.

Step #4: Get the water out

Shake as much water out of the roller cover as possible.

A roller cover on a windowsill, drying in the sun. A roller cover on a windowsill, drying in the sun.

Step #5: Let dry

Stand the cover on its end to dry on a piece of scrap paper or a drop cloth—do not lay it flat.

Step #6: Clean the paint tray

To clean the paint tray, wash it in warm soapy water with a rag.

Step #7: Rinse and let dry

Thoroughly rinse the paint tray and allow it to dry.

A clean roller cover and paintbrush sitting on a windowsill. A clean roller cover and paintbrush sitting on a windowsill.

How to Store a Paint Roller

If you’re in the middle of a project and will be reusing your paint roller within a few days, you can skip the cleaning process—for now. Simply wrap your roller in plastic wrap and put it in the refrigerator.

Finished with a project? For longer term storage, clean your paint roller, letting it dry completely, and wrap it in plastic wrap or a plastic bag to store it for next time.

When to Dispose of a Roller Cover

You can tell a roller is getting worn out if it is becoming more difficult to get the paint out of it during the cleaning process.

Helpful Tip

Has your roller cover dried with paint on it? You can dispose of your roller with your regular household trash if you’ve used it with acrylic, latex or waterborne paint.

How Many Times Can You Use a Paint Roller?

If you clean and store your roller cover properly, you should be able to use it at least three or four times, if not more. You can reuse your roller frame indefinitely, if you clean it properly and don’t allow paint to dry and harden in the frame over time.



Visit your local Benjamin Moore retailer for help with all your painting needs. Find more tips in our How-To section.