The Ultimate Guide to Preserving Acrylic Paint Tubes

To maximize the lifespan of your acrylic paint tubes start by keeping them in a temperature-stable environment shielded from UV rays. Elevated temperatures and sunlight can lead to pigment separation or premature drying so a cupboard or drawer in a climate controlled room is ideal. Never keep them in unconditioned spaces like attics or near radiators.

Always cap the tubes tightly after each use. A tiny opening may be enough to dry out the paint near the opening. Remove hardened paint from the cap’s rim with a soft, damp cloth. For added protection, seal the cap with cling film or a silicone sleeve.

Reverse the tubes periodically to keep paint flowing toward the nozzle. This technique keeps the paint fresh at the opening by gravity-assisted flow. Double-check that the cap is sealed before inverting the tube.

Store them in a rigid case or tray to prevent physical damage. Never place books, http://www.realto.ru/journal/articles/nadyozhnye-sposoby-krepleniya-vagonki-ot-klyajmerov-do-samorezov/ tools, or equipment above your tubes. A plastic compartment box or acrylic paint holder is ideal.

If you notice a tube has started to dry out, try gently squeezing it from the bottom up to bring fresh paint closer to the opening. Sometimes a small amount of distilled water mixed into the tube with a clean palette knife can revive the paint. Overuse can compromise viscosity and color integrity.

Mark each tube with the day you first opened it or the buy date. When cared for correctly, most tubes remain usable for 24–60 months. But tracking age helps you use older tubes first and avoid waste. Proper handling ensures your paints remain rich and workable for years to come.