Just like natural hair, human hair wigs can accumulate oil, dust, and product residue that make them look dull or heavy over time. Regular human hair wig cleaning not only refreshes the strands but also helps extend the wig’s lifespan and maintain its natural movement. If you're not sure how to wash a human hair wig without harming its texture, this complete guide by Arabella covers everything you need — from essential do's and don'ts to an easy six-step washing routine and aftercare tips that keep your wig soft, shiny, and full of life after every wash.
Dos and Don'ts of Washing Human Hair Wigs
Before diving into the step-by-step guide on how to wash a human hair wig, it's important first to understand the basic care practices that protect your wig and keep it looking its best. Following these simple dos and don'ts can make all the difference between a wig that stays vibrant and one that quickly loses its shine.
✅ Dos for Washing Human Hair Wigs
● Do use sulfate-free human hair wig shampoo for cleaning.
● Do detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb before washing.
● Do wash with cool or lukewarm water only.
● Do apply conditioner from mid-length to ends.
● Do pat dry with a soft towel — never rub.
● Do let the wig air dry on a stand to keep its shape.
❌Don'ts for Washing Human Hair Wigs
● Don't use hot water or harsh products.
● Don't twist or wring out the wig.
● Don't brush while wet to avoid breakage.
● Don't soak the wig for too long.
● Don't apply conditioner to the roots or cap.
● Don't use direct heat when washing a human hair wig or drying it.
How to Wash a Human Hair Wig Step by Step
Now that you know the essential dos and don'ts, it's time to get hands-on. Washing a human hair wig is simpler than you might think. Follow these six easy steps, and you'll keep your wig soft, shiny, and tangle-free every time.
Step 1. Prepare Tools for Washing a Human Hair Wig
Before you begin washing a human hair wig, gathering all your supplies will make the process smoother and more efficient. Essential tools for effective wig cleaning include:
● Wig Stand: Holds the wig securely when washing and drying.
● Wig Shampoo & Conditioner: Sulfate-free and wig-specific formulas are recommended.
● Wide-Tooth Brush: Detangles without pulling or damaging strands.
● Basin or Sink: Clean and free of soap or residue.
● Micro-soft Towel: Blot excess water gently without rubbing.
● Hair Clips (Optional): Help section the wig for easier cleaning and combing.
Step 2. Gently Detangle the Human Hair Wig
Before you start to wash a human hair wig, it's crucial to remove tangles carefully. Place the wig securely on a wig stand or mannequin head to keep it stable. Using a wide-tooth comb or wig brush, start detangling from the ends, gradually working your way up to the roots. This approach reduces breakage and minimizes shedding.
For long, layered, or curly wigs, divide the hair into manageable sections using clips. Work through each section slowly and gently, paying extra attention to areas prone to knots, such as the nape and underlayers. Taking the time to detangle thoroughly ensures a smoother wash a human hair wig process and helps maintain the wig's natural shine and texture.
Step 3. Soak and Shampoo Your Wig
To begin wig cleaning, fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and gently submerge your wig, letting the strands soak in their natural direction. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen dirt, oil, and product buildup.
Next, apply a small amount of human hair wig shampoo from the mid-lengths to the ends, gently working it through with your fingers. Focus on the hair rather than the cap, and avoid scrubbing or twisting to prevent damage and shedding.
For a thorough wash human hair wig process, carefully turn the cap inside out to clean the base and inner mesh, removing any sweat or residue. This gentle method ensures effective wig cleaning while keeping your wig soft, shiny, and tangle-free.
Step 4. Rinse Your Wig Thoroughly
After applying human hair wig shampoo, it’s time to rinse your wig completely. Hold the wig under a gentle stream of lukewarm water, allowing the water to flow in the same direction as the hair strands to prevent tangling. Ensure all shampoo is fully rinsed out, including the cap if you flipped it inside out during washing.
Avoid twisting or wringing the hair, which can cause breakage or shedding. For best results, when learning how to wash a human hair wig, gently run your fingers through the strands while rinsing to remove any remaining residue. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and free of suds, leaving the wig clean, soft, and ready for conditioning.
Step 5. Condition Your Human Hair Wig
After rinsing out the shampoo, apply a small amount of conditioner specifically formulated for human hair wigs. Focus on the mid-lengths to ends, where the hair is driest, and gently work it through with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Avoid the roots to prevent product buildup on the cap.
Let the conditioner sit for 3–5 minutes to deeply nourish and soften the strands. For thorough wig cleaning, rinse the conditioner out carefully with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. This step is key to washing a human hair wig properly, leaving it smooth, tangle-free, and ready for drying.
Step 6: Dry Your Human Hair Wig Properly
Proper drying is the final, essential step in washing a human hair wig. Begin by gently blotting the wig with a soft, absorbent towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing or wringing, as this can cause frizz and tangling.
For faster drying, you may use a hairdryer on the coolest setting. Keep the dryer moving constantly and maintain a safe distance, following the hair’s natural direction from roots to ends.
The safest and most recommended method is air-drying. Place the wig on a wig stand and let it dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct heat or sunlight. This careful approach completes your wig cleaning routine, preserving the style while keeping the hair smooth, shiny, and tangle-free.
Bonus Tips for Wig Care After Washing
Congratulations! You've completed the essential steps of how to wash a human hair wig, but proper care doesn't end there. Regular maintenance after the wig clean routine is crucial for keeping your wig looking beautiful and lasting longer. Here are key care tips to preserve its shine, softness, and style:
● Proper Storage: Always store your completely dry wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape, prevent tangling, and protect the cap.
● Minimize Heat Styling: Limit the use of hot tools like flat irons and curling wands. When styling, always use a heat protectant spray to safeguard the hair fibers.
● Avoid Sleeping in Your Wig: Remove your wig before bed to prevent friction that causes tangling and breakage.
● Schedule Deep Conditioning: Treat your wig to a deep conditioning mask every few weeks to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
● Handle with Care: Be gentle during daily styling. Start detangling from the ends and work your way up to minimize shedding and damage.
● Refresh Between Wears: Lightly mist with a wig refresher spray or water to revive style and maintain softness without a full wash.
Conclusion
By now, you've learned how to wash a human hair wig step by step — from preparing the right tools and products to gentle wig cleaning, conditioning, and proper drying. Each stage plays an important role in maintaining your wig’s softness, shine, and natural look. Consistent care not only enhances its appearance but also extends its lifespan, keeping it beautiful wear after wear.
If you're searching for high-quality wigs that are easy to maintain and style, Arabella Hair offers an excellent selection. Their wigs are made from 100% premium human hair, designed to handle regular washing, heat styling, and long-term use. With Arabella Hair, achieving salon-level beauty while practicing simple at-home care becomes effortless — giving you confidence and comfort every day.
FAQs About How to Wash a Human Hair Wig
How often to wash a human hair wig?
A human hair wig typically needs washing every 7–10 wears, or about once every two to three weeks if you wear it often. However, the ideal frequency can vary depending on how frequently you wear it, your surroundings, and the amount of styling product you apply. If your wig starts to feel greasy, heavy, or loses its natural flow, it's a clear sign it’s time for a wash.
How to wash a human hair wig with conditioner?
Wash a human hair wig using a mild shampoo and rinse thoroughly with cool water in the first place. Then, apply a small amount of conditioner evenly through the hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends rather than the roots or lace. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes to restore softness and shine, then rinse it out completely with cool water to avoid residue buildup.
How to wash a human hair wig without wig shampoo?
You can wash a wig safely with mild, sulfate-free products if you have a human hair wig shampoo. The best choices are gentle, moisturizing shampoos made for natural hair or baby shampoos, as they clean effectively without stripping away the wig's natural oils.
How do I clean the cap/base of my wig?
To clean the cap or base of your wig, focus on removing oil, sweat, and product buildup from areas that touch your scalp. Turn the wig inside out to expose the cap, then use a small amount of mild shampoo or wig cleanser diluted in cool water. Gently scrub the inside with your fingers or a soft toothbrush, paying extra attention to the front hairline and ear tabs.
Avoid soaking lace areas for too long, as this can loosen the knots. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all residue. Pat the wig dry with a towel and place it on a stand to air dry completely before wearing it again.
