How to Use AK119 Perfect Cleaner for Airbrush Maintenance
By Panda Hobby - Canada's Largest Gundam Store | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use AK119 Perfect Cleaner to clean acrylic paint from brushes and airbrushes, plus tips for keeping your equipment in top shape.
Quick answer
AK119 Perfect Cleaner is a non-toxic cleaning solution that removes acrylics from brushes and airbrushes. Use it after each painting session to prevent clogging and extend the life of your equipment.
Why AK119 works for acrylic cleanup
AK119 Perfect Cleaner is formulated specifically for acrylic paints, which are common in model building. Because it is non-toxic, it is safer for hobbyists who work in small spaces or without heavy ventilation compared to harsh solvents.
One trade-off: while it excels at cleaning acrylics, it may not be the best choice for removing cured enamel or lacquer paints. For those, you would need a stronger solvent. Always test on a small area if you are unsure.
Using AK119 as an airbrush lubricant
Beyond cleaning, AK119 can serve as a lubricant. If you plan to pause airbrushing for a couple of hours, adding a small amount to the cup and running it through keeps the needle from drying out and prevents paint from sticking.
This dual function makes it a practical addition to your airbrush maintenance routine, reducing the need for separate lubricants.
Step-by-step airbrush cleaning with AK119
- Empty the paint cup: Remove any remaining paint from the airbrush cup. Use a brush or paper towel to wipe out excess paint. Checkpoint: Make sure no dried paint remains in the cup before proceeding. Check for dried paint in the cup; if present, let AK119 sit for a few minutes to soften it.
- Fill with AK119: Pour a small amount of AK119 Perfect Cleaner into the cup—enough to cover the bottom. Use a dropper or pipette to avoid overfilling. Checkpoint: Do not fill to the brim; you only need enough to flush the internal passages. Use only a small amount; you can always add more if needed.
- Back-flush the airbrush: Place a finger over the nozzle tip and pull the trigger back to create back pressure. This forces the cleaner through the internal channels, loosening paint residue. Checkpoint: Keep the finger sealed to avoid splatter; wear gloves if desired. If you see paint particles in the cup, repeat the back-flush until the cleaner runs clear.
- Spray out the cleaner: Remove your finger and spray the remaining AK119 through the airbrush onto a paper towel or into a waste container. This flushes out loosened paint. Checkpoint: Ensure the spray pattern is even and no colored residue appears. If residue remains, repeat steps 3-4 or use a cleaning brush for stubborn spots.
- Lubricate for storage or breaks: After cleaning, add a drop of AK119 to the needle area to keep it lubricated during short breaks or storage. This prevents paint from drying on the needle. Checkpoint: Do not over-lubricate; a single drop is sufficient. For long-term storage, consider a dedicated airbrush lubricant, but for a few hours, AK119 works well.
Product facts
- AK119 Perfect Cleaner, 100 ml: AK119 Perfect Cleaner is a non-toxic cleaning solution for removing acrylics from brushes and airbrushes, and can also function as a lubricant. You can safely clean your tools without harsh fumes and keep your airbrush needle smooth during short breaks.
AK119 Perfect Cleaner, 100 ml
