Wipe off excess paint with a rag or paper towel
Rinse the brush in the appropriate solvent for the paint type
Swirl the bristles gently to loosen paint
Wipe the brush again to remove dissolved paint
Repeat with fresh solvent until the brush is mostly clean
Wash the brush with warm water and mild soap if needed
Work the soap through the bristles from ferrule to tip
Rinse thoroughly until no paint or soap remains
Reshape the bristles with your fingers
Blot out excess water with a clean towel
Lay the brush flat or hang it bristle-down to dry
Store the brush only after it is completely dry