Let’s talk about wig maintenance, specifically how to wash your wig. I totally understand the hesitation with washing your wig for the first time, but trust me it’s a breeze (just be gentle). 

For this post I will be talking about washing human hair wigs. Washing a synthetic is a little different and I’ll cover that in another post/video. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a local wig shop, you can drop your wig off for a wash and style just like you would do your dry cleaning. Keep in mind that you’ll have to give up your wig for a day or two, but being able to just pick up a freshly washed and styled wig is the ultimate convenience. 

But if you’re like me and you don’t like having to part with your wig for any length of time, then knowing how to properly wash your wig is a must. Now there are many schools of thought when it comes to “correctly” washing your wig. I’m going to be sharing how I’ve been washing my wigs from the start (and my wigs still look brand new!), but feel free to make this process your own. 

Before we get to the actual washing, let’s talk about how often a wig should be washed. My general rule is at least 4 weeks between washes at the bare minimum. I usually aim for 6 weeks and if I can go longer, even better. Of course there are various factors that will influence how often you’re washing:

• How often are you wearing your wig? 
• Are you rotating wigs?
• What activities are you doing while wearing your wig?

Depending on those answers you might be closer to that 4 week mark or maybe you can stretch it to 8 weeks. Again, there are many differing opinions as to how often to wash your wig, but I have found that the less you do to your wig (washing, heat styling, etc.) the better. 

Next let’s chat about products. I swear we’re gonna get to the actual washing really soon. There isn’t one specific brand of shampoo that you have to use, but there are a few things you want to look for when choosing your products:

• Choose a high quality shampoo/conditioner (you don’t need to go and buy the most expensive products out there, but something that is good quality)
• Choose products that are hydrating (wigs tend toward dryness, so using something that is moisturizing/hydrating will help fight against that)
• Choose products that are color safe. Most wigs are made with color processed hair, but even if you have a virgin hair wig, color safe products tend to be gentler.
• And of course choose products that are free of harsh chemicals

Whichever shampoo and conditioner you choose, if you buy a regular sized bottle it’ll last you a year since you’re only washing once a month at the most. Lately I’ve been using Pureology Hydrate or Davroe products. 

Okay, now that we’ve covered all that, let’s get to washing! I feel like it’s something that makes more sense when you see it rather than reading the steps. So here’s a little video of how I wash my wig. But just one more thing, well two more things that I want to stress:

-Be gentle! Especially if you have a lace top or lace front. Go easy on the lace and never scrub! 

-Also, you’re awesome! (Just in case you needed a reminder)

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