Abstract: A paint applicator cleaning apparatus for allowing a user to easily clean painting tools such as slim jim sleeves, brushes and roller skins. The paint applicator cleaning apparatus includes a housing, which includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The inner shaft is rotatably coupled to the outer shaft, the outer shaft is designed for being gripped by a user. A drive assembly is slidably inserted through the inner shaft of the housing such that longitudinal movement of the drive assembly rotates the inner shaft. The drive assembly includes a handle that extends from the housing. The handle is designed for facilitating gripping of the drive assembly by a hand of the user. A first adapter assembly is slidably coupled to the inner shaft of the housing, the first adapter is designed for removably receiving a elongated roller cover.