How to Clean and Care for Your Chinese Calligraphy Brush

A calligraphy brush is the heart of every 书法 (Shūfǎ) practice. If you work with ink and rice paper regularly, you know: a good brush is more than a tool—it's a companion and an extension of your thoughts and emotions. How to clean and care for a Chinese Calligraphy brush is essential knowledge for every practitioner. To maintain its shape, spring, and precision, your brush deserves mindful care. Here’s how to clean and maintain it for years of joyful use.​

1. Preparing a New Brush: Removing the Starch

Many new Chinese calligraphy brushes are shipped with a starch coating to protect the hairs and hold the shape for transport. How to remove it:

• Hold the tip under lukewarm, running water.

• Gently massage the hairs with your fingers until the gelatinous layer is gone.

• Never apply harsh pressure or bend the hairs against their natural direction.​

  
  

2. After Every Use: Gentle, Thorough Cleaning

Ink should be washed out immediately after each use—don’t let it dry on the brush:

• Rinse the brush head under running, cool to lukewarm water.

• Stroke the hairs gently from the base to the tip until the water runs clear.

• Tip: Only submerge the hairs—not the wooden handle or knot, which can swell and loosen over time.​

3. Drying: Keeping Shape, Avoiding Mildew

• Gently blot the brush with a towel to remove excess moisture.

• Use your fingers to reshape the tip to its original form.

• Hang the brush with the tip facing down (on a special brush rack or hook) in a shaded, airy spot.

• Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.​

• Never store a damp brush in a cap or box—this can lead to mold.

4. What to Avoid

• No soap, detergent, or aggressive chemicals—plain water is enough!​

• Never leave the brush soaking in water, which harms the hairs and the knot.

• Do not blow dry, wring, or aggressively rub the brush.

• Use the protective cap only for transport—not for storage.

5. Bonus Tip: Restoring a Bent Brush

Is your brush tip crooked? Sometimes a touch of hair gel helps:

• Put a little in the washed, damp bristles and reshape the tip.

• Allow it to dry, then rinse thoroughly before the next use.

Final Thoughts: Mindfulness Begins with Your Tool

Cleaning the brush is part of the meditation—take these few minutes after your writing as a closing ritual. This will extend the life of your brush and maintain the clarity of your lines.

A well-cared-for brush means a mindful mind.In stillness lies the strength of your art—and the joy of your practice.

(Have your own care tips or questions from experience? Share in the comments below!)