How to Care for and Wash Wigs and Weaves
It is important to care for and wash your wigs properly. Always use cleansers, conditioners and brushes that are made especially for wig care. Follow the tips about wig care below to clean your wigs and weaves once every two to three weeks.
WIG CARE WASHING INSTRUCTION
First, remember not to sleep on your wig as it can compromise its structure. Do not expose a synthetic wig to heated styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners or curling irons. Wash your wig in cold water. If you use hot water, it can damage the fibers and ruin the wig.
When washing a wig, do not twist it, wring it or squeeze it. Below are specific instructions for washing a wig. Never over-wash your hair pieces.
Make a mixture of wig conditioner and water and spray it onto the wig. Brush the wig from the bottom up and gradually wet the entire wig and brush it this way before shampooing it. This is done to protect it from tangles.
Once this step has been taken, rinse the wig and soak it for 10 minutes in warm, but not hot, water. Hot water can break down the cap’s construction and it can cause the wig to lose hair fibers. After the wig has had time to soak, gently apply the specially formulated shampoo to it.
Pay special attention to shampooing the forehead. This is usually the most heavily soiled area of the wig. Thoroughly, but gently, shampoo the entire wig. Next, rinse the shampoo out. Use cool water and make sure it flows in the same direction from the roots to the ends.
After the wig has been rinsed, place it flat on a towel and dab away all excess water. Press the towel gently over the wig. Do not brush it or comb it until it has dried.
You can place the wig on a wig stand to let it dry in the shade. This is also the correct place to store it. Never try to speed up the process by blow drying it, putting in the sun or using a clothes dryer. You do not want to do anything to damage the wig or it could cause it to wear out faster.
WEAVE WASHING INSTRUCTION
Next, here are some tips for washing weaves. These are somewhat different than the wig instructions as you will be soaking the extensions in lukewarm water. Do not put the tracks into the water.
Wash them by gently scrunching them from the bottom up. Do not rub the extensions. When done, squeeze any excess water out and pat they dry using a towel. Unfold the towel and hang the extensions to air dry.
While they are still damp, you can spray in leave in conditioner to them. Remember to make sure they are completely dry before sewing them in.
