Acrylic paints are loved by artists worldwide for their versatility, fast drying time, and vibrant colours. But they can also be tricky – if not stored and handled properly, acrylics dry out, separate, or even become clumpy.
Since acrylics are water-based, once they dry, there’s no way to re-activate them like watercolors.
That’s why taking proper care is essential to make your paints last longer and perform at their best.
Here’s a complete guide to caring for your acrylic paints so that every tube, jar, or bottle stays in great condition.
Care for acrylic paints properly if you want them to stay fresh, smooth, and easy to use for longer. Many artists struggle with dried or damaged paints simply because they are not stored the right way.
1. Store Them Properly
- Tightly sealed: Always make sure the caps are closed securely after each use. Even a little air can dry up the paint inside the tube.
Cool, dry place: Store acrylic paints away from direct sunlight or heat (which can cause separation or hardening).
Upright for jars, horizontal for tubes: This prevents leakage and keeps pigment evenly distributed.
- Avoid humidity: Moist environments can introduce mold or affect the consistency of the paint.
2. Use a Wet Palette
A wet palette helps keep paints workable for hours (sometimes even days).
- Line a shallow container with a damp sponge or paper towel.
- Place baking parchment or palette paper on top.
- Put your acrylic paints on this surface – the moisture underneath prevents them from drying out too quickly.
3. Avoid Contaminating the Paint
Acrylic paints can go bad faster if foreign materials are introduced.
- Use a palette knife: Instead of dipping your brush directly into the tube, scoop paint with a clean palette knife.
- Clean brushes before dipping again: Prevent dried paint, mediums, or even water from getting inside the tube/jar.
- Don’t mix inside the tube: Always do mixing on a palette, not in the original container.
4. Watch the Expiry and Consistency
High-quality acrylic paints last a long time, but they can still spoil.
- Paint is becoming rubbery or clumpy inside the tube.
- Strong unpleasant odor (indicating bacterial growth).
- Paint separating into a watery liquid and thick solid.
5. Clean Up Immediately After Use
- Wipe caps and lids: Prevents dried paint from sealing the container shut.
- Close tightly right away: Don’t leave jars open while painting for long periods.
- Use airtight containers for leftovers: If you squeezed out too much paint, store it in a small airtight container to use later.