Washing your wig properly is the foundation of good wig care. Many wig owners make costly mistakes that reduce their wig's lifespan. This tutorial will teach you professional washing techniques used by hairstylists to keep wigs looking salon-fresh.
What You'll Need
Before starting, gather these essential supplies: sulfate-free wig shampoo, moisturizing conditioner (or deep conditioner), wide-tooth comb or wig brush, large basin or sink, soft towels, wig stand, and optional: leave-in conditioner and wig cap.
Preparation Phase
Never wash a tangled wig! Start by gently detangling the wig while it's dry. Hold the cap firmly and use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to work through tangles, starting from the ends and gradually working up to the roots. Be patient—rushing this step leads to hair loss and damage.
Temperature Matters
Always use lukewarm water for washing and cool water for rinsing. Hot water damages the hair cuticle, causes tangling, and can even loosen the knots on lace wigs. Think of it like washing delicate fabric—gentle is better.
The Professional Washing Method
Fill Your Basin
Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water. The basin should be large enough to fully submerge the wig without cramming it in.
Add Shampoo to Water
Add 1-2 tablespoons of sulfate-free shampoo to the water and swish to create a gentle, soapy solution. Don't apply shampoo directly to the wig.
Submerge the Wig
Turn the wig inside out and gently submerge it in the water. Let it soak for 3-5 minutes to loosen dirt and product buildup.
Gentle Swishing Motion
Using both hands, gently swish the wig through the water in a downward motion. Never rub, scrub, or twist the hair. Imagine you're giving it a gentle bath, not doing laundry.
Clean the Cap Interior
Turn the wig right-side out. Using your fingers, gently massage the cap interior where it contacts your scalp. This area accumulates oils and sweat.
Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water. Rinse the wig under cool running water in a downward motion until all shampoo is removed. Squeeze gently—never wring—to help release soap.
Conditioning Treatment
Apply conditioner from mid-shaft to ends, avoiding the cap and roots. Use your fingers to distribute evenly. Leave for 5-10 minutes (or longer for dry wigs).
Final Rinse
Rinse again with cool water until the water runs clear. Cool water seals the hair cuticle, adding shine and reducing frizz.
Remove Excess Water
Gently squeeze the wig from roots to ends to remove excess water. Then, wrap in a soft towel and press (don't rub!) to absorb more water.
Apply Leave-In Products
While the wig is damp, apply leave-in conditioner or wig serum focusing on the ends. This provides ongoing moisture and protection.
Air Dry on Stand
Place the wig on a wig stand in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying. Never wear a damp wig!
Critical Don'ts
- •Never use hot water—it damages hair structure permanently
- •Don't rub or scrub the hair—causes tangling and frizz
- •Avoid wringing or twisting—this breaks hair strands
- •Don't brush while wet—wait until damp or completely dry
- •Never use a blow dryer on high heat—low heat only, if needed
- •Don't rush the drying process—patience prevents damage
How Often Should You Wash?
The washing frequency depends on your wearing habits: Daily wear (8+ hours): Wash every 7-10 wears. Regular wear (3-5 days/week): Wash every 10-15 wears. Occasional wear (1-2 days/week): Wash every 15-20 wears or when it looks dull.
Signs your wig needs washing: loss of shine, product buildup, odor, tangling more than usual, or feeling heavy/greasy.
Pro Secret
Professional stylists add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the final rinse water. This removes any remaining product residue and adds incredible shine. Rinse one more time after the vinegar rinse to remove the smell.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the proper washing technique is one of the most important skills for wig ownership. With practice, this process becomes second nature and takes only 20-30 minutes of active time (plus drying). Your wig will thank you with longer life, better appearance, and easier styling!