Airbrush Cleaning with Mr. Tool Cleaner T113: Step-by-Step

By Newtype: Gundam Model Kits / Gunpla / Paint / Tools | Published: 2026-10-16

Category: 技巧與保養

A practical airbrush cleaning routine using Mr. Tool Cleaner T113. Learn how to dissolve paint from nozzles, brushes, trays, and bottles without damaging your tools.

Quick answer

Use Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 as a dedicated solvent for dissolving dried and wet paint from airbrush parts, brushes, trays, and spare bottles. Work in a ventilated area, disassemble the airbrush, and clean the nozzle and needle first because those are the parts that most often clog. For routine color changes, a quick flush may be enough; for deep maintenance, soak hard parts briefly and wipe them clean.

Why Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 belongs in your airbrush maintenance kit

Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 is formulated to quickly dissolve paint stains on airbrushes, brushes, paint trays, and spare bottles. That makes it useful beyond a single cleaning session: it handles the messy parts of painting that slow you down between color changes. Keeping your tools clean is the best way to become a better modeler because a clogged nozzle or contaminated brush can ruin an otherwise smooth paint job.

Unlike general-purpose thinners that may be intended for mixing paint, T113 is positioned as a cleaning product. That distinction matters when you want to flush residue without worrying about whether the liquid is optimized for spraying. It is a practical addition to any airbrush care routine, especially if you use water-based or solvent-based acrylics and want a repeatable way to break down paint buildup.

How to clean an airbrush nozzle without damaging it

The nozzle is the smallest and most fragile part of the airbrush, so it needs the gentlest handling. After removing the nozzle, place it in a small container with enough Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 to cover it. Let it soak for a few minutes to soften paint, then use a soft brush or a fine cleaning tool to remove residue. Avoid inserting hard metal tools into the nozzle opening, as this can scratch or deform the precision hole.

If paint remains stubborn, a second short soak is safer than forcing it. Rinse the nozzle with clean cleaner and check the opening against a light source. A clear, round opening means you are ready to reassemble. If the spray pattern is still uneven, repeat the soak and inspect the needle for dried paint as well.

Daily flushing versus deep cleaning: when to do each

For everyday color changes, a fast flush with Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 can remove most wet paint from the cup, needle, and nozzle. This takes only a minute or two and prevents pigment from drying inside the airbrush. Deep cleaning is better saved for the end of a painting session or when you notice spattering, a pulsing spray, or a clog that a quick flush does not fix.

A simple rule: if you are switching from a light color to a dark color, flush thoroughly so the lighter shade is not contaminated. If you are stopping for the day, disassemble and clean the nozzle and needle. Consistent daily care reduces the need for aggressive cleaning later.

Cleaning brushes, trays, and spare bottles with T113

Mr. Tool Cleaner T113 is not just for airbrushes. Paint brushes, mixing trays, and spare bottles collect dried paint that can flake into your next project. Pour a small amount of cleaner into the tray or bottle, let it sit briefly, and wipe or rinse. For brushes, work the cleaner into the bristles and then wash with mild soap and water if the manufacturer recommends it.

Keep a separate container for dirty cleaner so you do not cross-contaminate your main supply. When the dirty cleaner becomes heavily loaded with pigment, dispose of it according to local regulations. Never pour solvent-based cleaner down a household drain.

Step-by-step airbrush cleaning with T113

1. Ventilate and gather supplies: Work in a well-ventilated area away from open flames. Set out Mr. Tool Cleaner T113, a small cleaning container, soft brushes, paper towels, and a parts tray. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin. Checkpoint: if you can smell strong solvent fumes, increase airflow before opening the bottle.
2. Disassemble the airbrush: Remove the needle, nozzle, and any removable cup or cap. Keep small parts in a tray so they do not roll away. Do not force stuck parts; if paint has glued them, apply a drop of T113 and wait a moment. Common mistake: pulling the needle out while the nozzle is still tight can bend the tip.
3. Flush the paint path: Pour a small amount of T113 into the color cup and spray it through the airbrush into a waste container. Repeat until the liquid comes out clear. This removes most wet paint before you clean individual parts. Checkpoint: if the spray is weak or pulsing, stop and clean the nozzle before continuing.
4. Soak the nozzle and small parts: Place the nozzle, needle, and any paint-covered small parts in a container with enough T113 to cover them. Let them soak for a few minutes. Agitate gently or use a soft brush to lift softened paint. Common mistake: leaving parts to soak overnight can dull some finishes or damage seals. Keep soaks short.
5. Wipe the needle and nozzle clean: Remove parts from the cleaner and wipe them with a soft cloth or paper towel. For the nozzle, use a fine cleaning tool only if it is softer than the metal. Inspect the nozzle opening against a light to confirm it is clear. Checkpoint: a round, unobstructed opening means the nozzle is ready to reassemble.
6. Clean the cup, tray, and brushes: Use the same T113 to clean the color cup, mixing trays, and brushes. For brushes, work the cleaner through the bristles, then rinse with water if the brush manufacturer allows it. Wipe trays and bottles with a cleaner-dampened cloth. Common mistake: forgetting the cup threads and lid, where paint hides and later flakes into fresh paint.
7. Reassemble and test: Let all parts dry completely, then reassemble the airbrush. Spray a small amount of clean water or thinner to check for smooth flow and an even pattern. If the spray is still uneven, repeat steps 4 and 5. Next step: store the airbrush clean and covered to prevent dust from settling on the needle.

Product facts

Mr. Tool Cleaner 250ML T113: Mr. Tool Cleaner 250ML T113 quickly dissolves paint stains on airbrushes, brushes, paint trays, and spare bottles. One bottle covers multiple cleaning tasks, so you can maintain your whole painting setup without buying separate cleaners.
Mr. Color C39 Dark Yellow (Sandy Yellow) 10ml: Mr. Color C39 Dark Yellow (Sandy Yellow) 10ml is part of the C001-C120 Mr. Color line, known for an excellent finish and a large number of colors suitable for most models. If you use Mr. Color paints, T113 is a compatible cleaning option for removing residue from your airbrush and tools between color changes.