How to Wash and Care for Your Synthetic Wig

How to wash a synthetic wig without ruining it

How often should you wash a synthetic wig?

Synthetic wigs don't need washing as often as your natural hair. Every 10 to 15 wears, or whenever it starts looking dull or losing its bounce, is usually enough. Washing too often is one of the most common ways people shorten the life of a wig, so resist the urge to wash it every week out of habit.

How do you wash a synthetic wig?

1. Gently comb out any tangles with a wide-tooth comb before it gets wet. Start from the ends and work up, never from the roots down.
2. Fill a sink or basin with cool to lukewarm water. Hot water is one of the fastest ways to strip the texture out of synthetic fibre, so keep it cool.
3. Add a small amount of shampoo made for synthetic hair, or a sulphate-free shampoo if that's what you have.
4. Submerge the wig and gently swish it side to side. Don't rub, scrub, or twist the fibre against itself.
5. Rinse thoroughly in cool water until it runs clear and no shampoo residue is left.

How long does a synthetic wig take to dry?

Gently pat out excess water with a towel. Don't wring or twist it, that's how fibres end up frizzy or misshapen. Let it air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head, away from direct heat or sunlight. It usually takes a few hours to dry fully, so plan ahead if you need it for something specific.

How do you brush a synthetic wig without damaging it?

Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for wigs and extensions, and always start from the ends, working your way up in small sections. Brushing from the roots down is the fastest way to create knots and pull out fibres.

How should you store a synthetic wig when you're not wearing it?

Keep your wig on a stand or mannequin head between wears rather than folded in a drawer. This helps it hold its shape and style for longer, and makes it easier to just pick up and go the next time you want to wear it.

All of our wigs are heat-resistant, but the exact maximum temperature varies by style. If you've heat styled your wig recently, avoid washing it too soon after, since the fibre needs time to fully set. Check its product page for the exact rating, or browse our Heat Resistant Wigs collection for the full range with ratings listed.