Can You Wash Synthetic Wigs In Washing Machine?

It is not recommended to wash synthetic wigs in the washing machine. Instead, use wig shampoo and conditioner made specifically for synthetic wigs to clean the fibers without damaging them.

Key Takeaways

Avoid washing your wigs in a washing machine. Instead, hand-wash them using shampoos and conditioners formulated to wash synthetic wigs.
Machine washing synthetic wigs with standard detergents will damage them.
Even if you wash your wig with a regular shampoo, you risk reducing its shine and making it look dull in the long run.
Read the washing instructions on the care label.

Let’s take a quick look at the list of topics covered in this article.

Table of Content

What is a Wig?
What is the ideal way to wash a wig?
How to wash a wig by hand?
How to wash a wig in a washing machine?
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wig?

Wigs are often seen as a fashion statement in this modern era and they are now popularly used to thicken the appearance of hair no matter if it’s for the head or the beard.

The actual motive behind the wigs was for people who suffer from hair loss or other medical conditions.

Wigs are simply a replacement for naturally grown human hair, especially to cover baldness and enhance one’s physical appearance.

They are made using human hair as well as synthetic fibers in most cases, and they need regular treatments similar to real ones.

What is the ideal way to wash a wig?

Most wig manufacturers recommend hand washing them by all means. This is the ideal way to wash them with care, and it gives you complete control.

Depending on the wig material, you can choose a shampoo formulated for human hair.

It is always advised to use a suitable shampoo or conditioner formulated for synthetic wigs.

How to wash a wig by hand?

Washing a wig using your hands can be done easily, and you will need a basin, a suitable shampoo, and cold water.

Use a soft brush to carefully comb through your wig to untangle and smooth out the strands.

Once you are done combing, it’s time to move on to the next step, i.e., to wash your wig.

Instructions to wash your wig

Step 1: Soak the Wig

Use clean water to thoroughly wet the wig before applying shampoo.

Alternatively, you can soak it in water for about five minutes.

Step 2: Shampoo application

You can shampoo the wig while holding it in your hand, or you can soak it in a sink of water and shampoo.

Applying shampoo by hand

Now gently apply a sufficient amount of shampoo formulated for your wig.

Apply it the same way you do it to your hair and pour a few drops of water while you apply it over them.

Applying shampoo by soaking it in a sink or basin

Fill the basin or sink with cold water and add suitable shampoo. Place your wig in the solution and swirl it gently around the basin.

Now gently roll your fingers over the wig and leave it to settle for around 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: Rinse your wig

Get rid of the dirty water and replace it with fresh water in the sink.

Next, place your wig in clean water and rinse it thoroughly to remove shampoo suds.

You may also rinse it under the running tap.

Step 4: Conditioner Application

Shake excess water off the wig.

Now add a suitable hair conditioner to the basin filled with clean water.

Next, place the wig in the bay and swirl it for a couple of minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes in the solution.

Using your fingers, you may also apply hair conditioner to the wig’s surface.

Alternatively, you can use a mannequin as a stand to place the wig on and apply the conditioner thoroughly.

Step 5: Rinse the Wig Thoroughly

Rinse the wig with clean water by either placing it in the sink filled with clean water or under a running tap.

Step 6: Release excess water

Shake the wig well and make use of a soft towel to wrap it around the hair.

Step 7: Air dry

It is always advised to leave the wig to air dry naturally and not comb it right after washing.

It may take about an hour or two to completely air dry.

Your wig has been successfully washed and is ready for styling.

How to wash a wig in a washing machine?

Although it is not recommended to wash a wig in a washing machine, if you still want to give it a try, then here’s how to do it safely.

Important Points To Remember

You should make sure that you are washing a synthetic wig, not one made from human hair.
Do not use an agitator-based washer installed in the washtub.
It’s best to go for a front load or HE washer to wash them gently.
Always use a laundry mesh bag and do not throw them directly in the washing machine.
Do not use excess shampoo as it may cause overflowing due to excess suds.
Use a shampoo with a low sudsing formula or simply reduce the quantity.
For synthetic wigs, you can use a shampoo formulated for synthetic wigs.

Alright!

Now that you know the key points to consider before washing wigs in the washer, it’s time to wash them.

Instructions to Wash Wig In Washing Machine

Step 1: Presoak the Wig

You can start by presoaking the wig in cold water and then applying some wig-specific shampoo.

Step 2: Place your wig in the laundry bag

Place the wig in the laundry bag while the shampoo is still on the wig.

Step 3: Use cold water and gentle cycle settings

Make sure to always use cold water settings to wash your wig, as hot water can damage it.

And always set the washer to a gentle wash cycle with the lowest wash duration and, if possible, discard the spin cycle, or set it to the lowest spin setting.

Step 4: Air Dry the Wigs

Once the wig is washed, remove it from the laundry bag and gently press it with a towel to get rid of excess water.

Next, let the wig air dry naturally, and do not use a clothes dryer.

Final Thoughts

Machine washing a wig without proper care can damage it in no time. Therefore, you have to be very careful and always use a laundry mesh bag to be on the safe side.

When it comes to washing a wig, the first approach should always be hand washing.

You should always wash your wig in cold water and use a shampoo suitable for the type of fiber you are washing (such as human hair or synthetic fibers).

Lastly, do not use any harsh chemicals during the wash, and always consult with the manufacturer for care instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a mild detergent to wash a synthetic wig?

Do not use any laundry detergent, irrespective of the materials used to manufacture the wig. Always use a hair shampoo suitable for your wig type or simply refer to its washing instructions on the pack.

Can I use shampoo in the washing machine?

Using shampoo in a washing machine is not recommended as it can cause a lot of suds and may lead to an overflowing or leaking washer. If you have decided to use shampoo in the washer, make sure to use it in a minimal amount or use a shampoo that produces less lather.

How Often Should I Wash Wigs?

In general, it is recommended to wash your wig every two to three weeks. However, you may need to increase the washing frequency if you wear them too frequently. So, how often you wash your wig also depends on your lifestyle. As a general rule of thumb, keep the washing frequency to once every 5 times you wear.

You May Also Like