Why is it advisable to wait to clean tools until paint is fully dry?

Waiting to clean tools until the paint is fully dry is advisable primarily to ensure tools remain functional. When paint is wet, it can adhere to surfaces and sealant mechanisms of the tools, which may lead to clogging or damage. Cleaning tools while paint is still in a liquid state risks not only ineffective cleaning but also potential impairment of functionality.

For instance, if paint gets into the bristles of a brush or the nozzle of a sprayer while it is still wet, it may dry and harden, making it difficult to clean later and potentially ruining the tool. This can cause issues with future paint application, as a clogged tool or brush may not perform adequately. Therefore, allowing the paint to dry completely ensures that the tools can be cleaned without residual improperly adhered paint interfering with their performance.

It's worth noting that other factors, such as preventing rusting or maintaining paint quality, are important but secondary in the context of ensuring the ongoing functionality of tools.