The Ultimate Guide on How to Wash Wigs and Hair Extensions Properly

Table Of Content

How to Wash Wigs and Hair Extensions Properly? Washing wigs and hair extensions is not as simple as washing your natural hair. Whether you wear them daily or occasionally, knowing how to wash wigs and hair extensions properly will significantly extend their lifespan, maintain their softness and shine, and preserve their original style. Improper washing techniques can lead to tangling, matting, dryness, and eventually, expensive replacements.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about washing different types of wigs and hair extensions, from human hair wigs, synthetic wigs, to clip-ins, tape-ins, and curly bundles. Let’s dive in!

Why Washing Your Wig Correctly Matters?

The Ultimate Guide on How to Wash Wigs and Hair Extensions Properly

✅ Proper wig care equals longevity: Clean, well-maintained wigs last longer and look better.

❌ Washing mistakes = costly damage: Using the wrong shampoo or handling your wig roughly can result in dryness, frizz, shedding, or permanent loss of curls and shape.

✅ Each hair type needs a tailored approach: Whether it’s a synthetic wig, raw Vietnamese human hair, straight hair, or curly hair extensions, each requires specific care techniques to maintain quality.

Understanding the Different Types of Wigs & Hair Extensions

The Different Types of Wigs: Exploring Wig Diversity
The Different Types of Wigs: Exploring Wig Diversity

Before diving into the step-by-step process, it’s essential to understand the type of wig or hair extension you’re working with:

Synthetic Wigs

Made from man-made fibers, synthetic wigs hold their style better but require gentle washing and no heat styling unless labeled heat-resistant.

Human Hair Wigs

Crafted from real human hair (like Vietnamese hair wigs), these wigs behave like natural hair and require regular conditioning and gentle handling.

Hair Extensions

  • Clip-ins: Removable daily; wash separately.

  • Tape-ins & Sew-ins: Semi-permanent; wash with care while attached.

  • Keratin bonds: Permanent extensions that need delicate root care.

Straight Hair

Straight hair wigs/extensions are prone to losing form if over-washed or roughly handled.

Curly or Wavy Hair

Requires extra moisture, curl preservation techniques, and minimal brushing.

>>See more: How To Properly Care for Hair Wigs: A Complete Guide

What You’ll Need Before Wash Wigs and Hair Extensions

What Youll Need Before Washing

🧴 Essential tools for wig and hair extension care:

  • Wide-tooth comb or wig brush

  • Sulfate-free shampoo (or synthetic wig shampoo)

  • Hydrating conditioner

  • Microfiber towel

  • Wig stand or mannequin head

  • Leave-in serum or oil (optional)

⚠️ Important Notes Before Washing:

  • Always detangle before washing

  • Never use hot water – lukewarm or cool water only

  • Avoid scrubbing or twisting the hair

How to Wash Wigs and Hair Extensions – Step-by-Step Guide

7JHH WIGS Long Straight Brown Blonde Wigs with Neat Bangs High Density Synthetic Layered Hair Wigs with Dark Roots High Quality - AliExpress

1. How to Wash Human Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs are prized for their natural look and styling flexibility, but they also require proper maintenance.

Steps:

  1. Gently brush to remove tangles from tips to roots.

  2. Rinse with lukewarm water from roots to ends.

  3. Apply a sulfate-free shampoo; smooth down gently, don’t rub.

  4. Rinse thoroughly.

  5. Apply conditioner, focusing on the ends. Avoid the cap/base.

  6. Rinse again, then blot with a towel (do not wring).

  7. Place on a wig stand to air dry.

  8. Use a cool blow dryer if needed, but avoid excessive heat.

Pro Tip: Add a leave-in serum to maintain softness.

z6833775763197 ec0bad74da263197c4c9f26246a99fd0

2. How to Wash Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are low-maintenance but sensitive to heat and harsh products.

Steps:

  1. Fill a basin with cool water and a capful of synthetic wig shampoo.

  2. Gently submerge the wig and swirl lightly for 5–10 minutes.

  3. Rinse under cool water – avoid rubbing.

  4. Apply synthetic wig conditioner (if applicable), then rinse.

  5. Blot with a towel, reshape, and air dry on a wig stand.

❌ Do not use heat styling unless the wig is labeled “heat-friendly”.

z6833775725467 1a739c681bd87565034e5a2ef15dc0fc
How to Wash Synthetic Wigs

3. How to Wash Straight Hair Extensions or Wigs

Straight hair shows damage more clearly, so keep your routine gentle.

Tips:

  • Always detangle before wetting.

  • Avoid heavy conditioners near the root.

  • Let it air dry naturally while keeping it flat to retain its form.

  • Apply light serum once dry for shine and moisture.

z6833775756249 59daee9f9912c610ecb43d04ae9f9e8f

4. How to Wash Curly or Wavy Hair Extensions

Curly hair needs hydration and special attention to preserve curl patterns.

Tips:

  • Do not brush when wet.

  • Use fingers or a wide-tooth comb when dry.

  • Use more conditioner and scrunch gently.

  • Let curls dry naturally in their natural shape.

🌀 Scrunch curls with your hands after rinsing to encourage bounce.

5. How to Wash Hair Extensions (Clip-In, Tape-In, Sew-In, Keratin)

z6833775726732 670a3ed02044fc31c2ebc14706f30cb0 e1753330866194

Clip-In Extensions:

  • Remove before washing.

  • Follow steps similar to human hair wigs.

  • Detangle, wash gently, condition, air dry flat.   

Tape-In/Sew-In/Keratin Extensions:

  • Wash while installed.

  • Be extra gentle near the roots and bonds.

  • Wash in downward motions only.

  • Never tug, twist, or scrub.

  • Avoid conditioners near tape/keratin bonds to prevent slippage.

💧 Moisturize the ends regularly with serum or oil to prevent dryness.

How to Wash Your Hair | Moehair – Moehair USA Inc.
How to Wash Hair Extensions

Do’s and Don’ts When Washing Wigs and Extensions

✅ Do:

  • Use products tailored to your hair type

  • Always detangle before washing

  • Wash regularly: every 1–2 weeks

  • Let hair air dry naturally whenever possible

DO DONT When Washing Wigs and Extensions 1

❌ Don’t:

  • Use hot water

  • Twist, wring or scrub the hair

  • Use shampoos with sulfates or parabens

  • Brush wet curly hair

🧠 Remember: Clean hair = happy hair. A gentle, thoughtful washing routine preserves your investment.

After-Wash Hair Storage & Maintenance

DO DONT When Washing Wigs and Extensions 2

After your wig or extensions are washed and dried:

  • Store on a wig stand to maintain shape

  • Never store when damp – mold and odor can form

  • Add light serum for shine and softness

  • Place in a silk/satin bag or ventilated box for long-term storage

How Often Should You Wash Wigs and Extensions?

How Often Should Human Hair Wigs be Cleaned – OQHAIR

Your wear frequency determines your wash schedule:

Hair TypeRecommended Washing Frequency
Daily Wear WigsOnce a week
Occasional UseEvery 2–3 weeks
Clip-In ExtensionsAfter 5–8 wears
Tape-In/Sew-In ExtensionsEvery 1–2 weeks (based on styling/product use)

Final Thoughts

factory human hair wigs

Washing your wigs and hair extensions the right way is essential for preserving quality, shine, and style. Whether it’s a luxurious raw Vietnamese human hair wig or an affordable synthetic unit, proper washing ensures your hair remains fresh, soft, and fabulous.

Cutting corners can lead to frizz, matting, shedding, or worse — needing to buy a replacement. That’s why premium brands like GUGU HAIR always recommend professional care routines for all clients.

✨ At GUGU HAIR, we provide not just top-quality human hair wigs and extensions, but also personalized advice to help you care, store, and style your hair investment like a pro

Looking for hair that stays stunning even after multiple washes?

Explore 100% raw, unprocessed Vietnamese hair at GUGU HAIR – Where beauty meets durability.

Contact us:

+ Whatsapp: +(84)385637191

+ Alibaba: GUGUHAIR

+ Email:  guguhair99@gmail.com

+ Factory Address: Phu Luu, Trung Nghia, Yen Phong, Bac Ninh

+ Office Address: #10, 2nd floor, street 5, galaxy van Phuc, To Huu, Ha Dong, Hanoi

For synthetic wigs: every 8–10 wears. For human hair wigs: every 6–8 wears, or when product buildup appears.

It’s not recommended. Use sulfate-free or wig-specific shampoo to maintain hair quality.

Yes for permanent types (e.g., tape-in, I-tip). Use gentle downward motions, and avoid rubbing or twisting.

No. Use lukewarm or cool water. Hot water can damage fibers or loosen lace knots.

Avoid sulfates, parabens, alcohol-based sprays, and heavy oils – they can dry or weigh down the hair.

Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo. Wash in cool water to preserve the color. Limit washing frequency.

WhatApp

Videos & Images Feedback Our Collection
gugu hair

TOP 1 GUGU HAIR
FACTORY VIETNAM

Website chính thức Xôi Lạc TV

Kênh trực tiếp bóng đá Xoilac TV HD

Quan tâm :

Link Vebo TV trực tiếp bóng đá

Xem RakhoiTV tiếng Việt

Xem trực tiếp bóng đá Mi Tom TV

Link Uniscore tỷ số bóngá UniScore.com

Bóngá Socolive 1 tv trực tiếp tiếng Việt

Kênh Xoilac TV chính thức

link vào 8xbet