How to Wash a Human Hair Wig
Tools for Human Hair Wig Cleaning
To make the process smooth, gather these items before you start:
● A wide-tooth comb or wig brush
● Mild sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
● A basin or sink filled with lukewarm water
● A Wig stand or mannequin head
● Towel (preferably microfiber)
● Optional: leave-in conditioner or argan oil for extra moisture
Steps for Washing a Human Hair Wig
Step 1. Start by gently combing the wig with a wide-tooth comb to remove knots. Begin at the ends and work upward to avoid pulling — this preps the hair for washing and reduces damage.
Step 2. Soak the wig in a basin of cool water for a few minutes to wet it thoroughly. Avoid hot water, as it can cause frizz and weaken the fibers.
Step 3. Submerge the wig in the water and gently swirl it for a few minutes. Pour a small amount of mild shampoo into your palms and massage it into the hair in a downward motion. And focus on the cap area where oils and products build up most.
Step 4. Empty the basin and refill it with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the wig gently until all shampoo is removed.
Step 5. Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends, avoiding the roots to prevent greasiness. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes, then rinse well. This step keeps your clean human hair wig soft and manageable.
Step 6. Pat the wig with a towel to absorb excess water — never wring or rub. Place it on a wig stand to air-dry naturally, away from heat or sun, which can cause brittleness.
Step 7. Once completely dry, you can style your wig with heat tools if needed, but always use a heat protectant to maintain its texture and longevity.
How to Wash a Synthetic Wig
Tools for Synthetic Wig Cleaning
Before you wash a synthetic wig, prepare these essentials:
● Specialized synthetic wig shampoo
● A basin or sink filled with cold to lukewarm water
● A wide-tooth comb or a wig detangling brush.
● Towel (soft or microfiber)
● Wig stand or mannequin head
● Optional: synthetic wig conditioner or fabric softener
Steps for Washing a Synthetic Wig
Step 1. Before wetting the wig, gently comb through it with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. This prevents knots from worsening during the wash.
Step 2. Fill a basin with cold water. Add a small amount of your chosen synthetic wig shampoo and swirl to create suds.
Step 3. Submerge the wig in the soapy water. Gently swish it around for 1-2 minutes. Do not scrub, rub, or twist the fibers, as this can cause frizz and tangling. Let it soak for up to 5 minutes.
Step 4. Drain the soapy water and rinse the wig by gently swishing it in a basin of fresh, cold water. Repeat until the water runs completely clear, ensuring all shampoo residue is removed.
Step 5 (Optional). If using a synthetic conditioner, add it to a final rinse of cold water. Swish the wig in this mixture, then rinse briefly with cold water. Do not let the conditioner soak for too long.
Step 6. Gently pat the wig with a microfiber towel to remove excess water. Never wring it out. Place the wig on a stand to air-dry naturally, away from direct heat or sunlight. Never use a hairdryer on a synthetic wig.
Differences Between Washing Human Hair and Synthetic Wigs
| Human Hair Wigs | Synthetic Wigs | |
|---|---|---|
| Shampoo Type | Sulfate-free human hair shampoo | Specialized synthetic wig shampoo |
| Detangling | Easier to detangle with a wide-tooth comb | Must be very gentle, tangles more easily |
| Water Temperature | Cool to lukewarm | Always Cold |
| Drying & Styling | Can be blow-dried and heat-styled (low to medium heat) | Cannot use heat styling; must air dry |
| Frequency | Can be washed frequently like natural hair | Wash less to preserve style and fibers |
| Lifespan | 1–2 years with proper care | 4–6 months with regular wear |
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Human Hair and Synthetic Wigs
● Don't use hot water. It can frizz synthetic fibers and strip natural oils from human hair. Always use cool water.
● Don't use regular hair shampoos. They contain harsh sulfates that can dry out both fiber types. Opt for wig-specific formulas.
● Don't scrub or wring the hair. This causes tangling and breakage. Instead, gently swish and press out water with a towel.
● Don't neglect detangling before washing. Skipping this step turns small knots into large, unmanageable mats.
● Don't apply conditioner to the wig cap roots. This can loosen the knots and cause shedding. Focus on the mid-lengths to ends.
● Don't use a hairdryer or direct heat to dry a synthetic wig, as the fibers can melt. Always air-dry on a stand.
● Don't brush a synthetic wig when it's dry if it isn't labeled "heat-friendly," as this can cause frizz.
