291759 Sun Feb 02 11:22:05 -0800 2003 5 27 General Chowhounding Topics 0 1589545 I no longer recall the century in which I purchased by pastry brush. I--probably fortunately--can no longer recall all of the various liquids, semi-solids, and other assorted items that it has plowed through over the years. But on using again yesterday, I noticed that the bristles are what we ought, euphemistically, refer to as..."tacky"--perhaps even figuratively as well as literally. My initial solution was to simply boil away the crud. When that had minimal impact, I added white vinegar to the water. That had a noticeable but still insufficient effect. Should I simply toss the brush or can anyone save this relic of ages past? Thanks. Gypsy Boy Sun Feb 02 11:22:05 -0800 2003 0 Gypsy Boy 1 1589550 I'm not sure if you are referring to a formal, expensive pastry brush but many of us in the industry, use those .25-cent, cheapy, natural-brush paint brushes sold at local hardware stores. Yes, they can be cleaned (as I often just use some warm soap and water), but it is easier to have a small handful on hand and throw them away when they get too cruddy. Sun Feb 02 14:22:56 -0800 2003 1589545 0 Eviter 1 1589568 Put them in the dishwasher! I have a 7 or 8 year old natural bristle pastry brush that I keep not because it is important or expensive, but just because it is still in perfect shape and because the dishwasher keeps it spotless! Sun Feb 02 22:28:25 -0800 2003 1589545 0 kim Shook 2 1589614 If it is one of the little narrow ones with the plastic end on it keeping the bristles upright from the handle: My mom would take down the plastic end near he handle before putting it in the dishwasher (in the silverware basket). Then, when it's dry, you just push the little plastic holder back onto the bristles. Wider pastry or barbeque brushes have bristles that are usually set permanent into the base of the handle and the base/bristles area should be double checked after cleaning to keep it fresh and new. There are many grease cutting dish soaps to use. Soap soak. If extra attention is needed, use a toothbrush there. (remind you of the army at all!) Or, like mentioned, replace often. Mon Feb 03 12:25:25 -0800 2003 1589568 0 kc girl 3 1589622 Any idea on where to find the plastic one with the movable bristle cap? I had one many years ago, but either it got lost or was replaced. I really don't like the wooden-handled paintbrush type. Mon Feb 03 13:35:27 -0800 2003 1589614 0 Linda W. 4 1589666 Mom just used to buy them in the grocery store. I found a picture on the Internet that looks like them, but the description doesn't say removable plastic cap. Also, she got them in California. But, you can probably just ask Kitchenaide where they are distributed in you rarea (unless you can clarify the removable plastic cap when you buy online). Kitchenaide is all over everywhere arent' they? Link: http://beta.epinions.com/KitchenAid_Pastry_Brush_Bakeware Mon Feb 03 17:50:24 -0800 2003 1589622 0 kc girl