Jump to:
It’s no secret that you can use fabric softeners to wash wigs effectively. Below, we’ll look closely at how to wash your wigs with your favorite fabric softeners. Plus, we’ll provide some tips for getting the best results. Read on to learn more.
Washing a Wig With Fabric Softener: A Summary
Here’s how to wash a wig with fabric softener:
- Start by combing out your wig to remove any tangles
- Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a capful of fabric softener
- Submerge your wig in the water and let it soak for a while
- After a few minutes swish it around gently like you’re stirring the water
- Rinse the wig with cold to remove any residue
- Allow the wig to air dry on a clean towel
And that’s all there is to it! Washing your wig with fabric softener is a quick and easy way to keep it looking its best.
What You’ll Need
I’ve put together a list of things that have been helpful to me whenever I need to fix my wig. Here they are:
- Regular fabric softener (I make sure to pick a scent I like),
- A basin and a sink will do
- Luke warm or cold water
- laundry detergent
- Wig stand
- Blow dryer
- Clean towel
- Wig brush
These have all been lifesavers for me, and I hope they help you too!
How to Wash a Wig With Fabric Softener (The Soak Method)
A wig is a great way to change your look, but it’s important to take proper care of it to ensure it lasts. Washing your wig with fabric softener can help extend its lifespan by keeping it soft and manageable. Here’s how to do it.
1. Prep Your Wig
First things first: prep your wig. This step means you have to brush your wig to remove tangles and knots. It is advisable to use a wig brush. For the best results comb the wig from the bottom and work your way up. Don’t brush your wig until it’s completely dry lest you make it frizzy.
2. Fill a Sink With Cool Water and Fabric Softener
The next step is actually to wash the wig. Pour some fabric softener into a sink or basin filled with cold water and swirl around until it’s mixed in well.
You could use fabric softener because it’s gentle and leaves the wig feeling soft. You can use whatever shampoo and conditioner you like, but avoid anything too harsh.
3. Submerge the Wig
Put your wig in the water you prepared and make stirring motions in one direction. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the wig. Let it soak for a couple of hours. For an excessively stiff wig, let it soak overnight.
4. Swish It Around
Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water to remove all traces of fabric softener. Squeeze excess water from the wig and wrap it in a towel. You may want to rinse the wig twice to ensure all traces of fabric softener are removed, as this can cause build-up over time if not completely rinsed away.
Excess build-up can make the wig feel heavy and oily and dull the hair’s natural luster. If you accidentally leave some fabric softener in the hair, rinse it with cool water until it is no longer present.
5. Rinse the Wig With Cold Water
Gently squeeze excess moisture from the wig and place it on a clean towel to air dry overnight, or use a blow dryer on low heat if you are in a hurry. You could also let it dry on a wig stand.
6. Allow It to Air Dry
Once dry now comes the fun part: styling! If your wig came pre-styled, you could fluff it up a bit, and voila – you’re done! If not, then have fun experimenting with different styles until you find one you like.
And there you have it! Now you know how to wash a wig using fabric softener – something that might have seemed daunting at first but is quite simple once you know how. So go forth and experiment with all your different wigs, and have fun!
You Might Also Like:
- How to Wash a Weave: 2024 Guide
- The 5 Most Common Types of Wigs in 2024
- Where to Buy Good Wigs Online in 2024
How to Wash a Wig With Fabric Softener (The Spray Method)
Here’s another easier method to clean your wig.
What You’ll Need
- 1 bottle of fabric softener
- Wig stand
- Spray bottle
- Towel
- Scissors (optional)
1. Fill the Spray Bottle
Fill the spray bottle with fabric softener. Be sure to use a mild fabric softener, so it doesn’t damage the wig.
2. Spray the Wig
Place the wig on the wig stand and spray the fabric softener evenly over the entire wig. Be sure to get all of the nooks and crannies.
3. Let Sit for 30 Minutes
Once the wig is thoroughly saturated, wrap it in a towel and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the fabric softener to penetrate the fibers.
4. Rinse With Cool Water
After 30 minutes, remove the towel and rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water. Again, avoid using hot water, as this can damage the wig’s fibers.
5. Gently Ring Out Excess Water
Gently squeeze excess water from the wig and place it back on the wig stand to air dry. You can use a hairdryer set on low heat if you’re in a hurry.
6. Comb It to Restore Its Shape
Once the wig is dry, comb it with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to restore its natural shape. You may need to trim stray hairs if they’re longer than usual.
And that’s it! Your wig will look good as new in no time. Just be sure to wash it regularly, so it doesn’t get too matted down or oily.
Tips for Washing Your Wig
Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock
Anyone who has ever worn a wig can attest that they can be a godsend when it comes to getting ready in the morning. But as convenient as they are, wigs also require extra care and attention.
In particular, you need to be careful when washing your wig so that you don’t damage it. Here are some things to remember the next time you clean your synthetic wig.
Use Liquid Fabric Softener Sparingly
If you use liquid fabric softener when you wash your wig, make sure to use it sparingly. Too much fabric softener can cause your wig to become greasy and matted. If you use fabric softener, rinse it out thoroughly before hanging your wig up to dry.
Avoid Heat Styling When Wet
Just like your hair, synthetic wigs should not be heat styled while wet. This includes blow drying, curling, or straightening. The heat from these styling tools can damage your wig’s fibers, making them frizzy and difficult to manage. If you must style your wet wig, use the lowest heat setting possible.
Brush Gently Before Washing
You should always brush your wig gently before washing it so any tangles can be worked out. Once your wig is wet, avoid brushing it at all costs, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to work through any knots or tangles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ostariyanov/Shutterstock
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to wash a wig with fabric softener.
Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash my wig?
No, you should not use regular laundry detergent because it is too harsh and can damage the fibers of your wig. A fabric softener is specifically designed for washing delicate items like wi so that it will be gentler on your hairpiece.
How often should I wash my wig?
It would help if you aimed to wash your wig every two weeks. Of course, this may vary depending on how often you wear it. If you wear your wig daily, you may need to wash it more frequently. On the other hand, if you only wear it occasionally, you may be able to stretch the interval between washes to three or four weeks.
Can I use shampoo on my wig?
Yes, you can use shampoo on your wig — be sure to rinse it thoroughly afterward so that no residue is left behind. You may also want to condition your wig after shampooing it to keep the fibers hydrated and looking their best.
Why is it important to use fabric softener?
Fabric softener helps to condition your wig and keeps it looking shiny and new. It also helps to reduce static and tangles. When washing your wig with fabric softener, be sure to use a mild formula that is designed for use on delicate fabrics. Follow the instructions on the fabric softener bottle for the best results.
What are some tips for caring for my wig?
Avoid using heat-styling tools and harsh chemicals to keep your wig looking its best. Be sure to store your wig on a mannequin head or wig stand when you’re not wearing it. This will help preserve the wig’s shape and prevent it from being damaged. Brush your wig daily with a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush to remove any tangles.
So, How Do You Wash a Wig With Fabric Softener?
With proper care, your synthetic wig will last for many uses! Just be sure to wash it regularly with cool water, mild shampoo, and conditioner made specifically for wigs. Never use hot water or brush your wig while wet, as this can damage the fibers.
Store your wig on a mannequin or foam head to dry when you’re not wearing it.
Remember to stuff the inside of the wig with tissue paper to help maintain its shape. Cedar chips or moth balls in a box or container will also keep insects away from your long-term stored wig. Happy styling!