Overtime, your wigs might start to smell or get tangled due to heavy use. Just like you clean and maintain a costume, it’s important to implement proper cosplay wig care. There’s different cleaners, conditioners and best practices to keep in mind when it comes to washing your wigs.
How to Wash a Cosplay Wig
Washing a cosplay wig is easy and can help remove sweat, debris or hair care products from a wig:
- Step 1. Prepare a bath – Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild shampoo, baby shampoo or dish soap.
- Step 2 – Soak & wash – Submerge the wig and let it soak for 10-30 seconds. Gently agitate the water as well.
- Step 3. Clean the cap – Turn the wig inside out and focus on the cap netting to clean that area.
- Step 4. Rinse & dry – Thoroughly rinse the wig and cap with cold water. Then gently squeeze out excess water and let it air dry.
- Note. Don’t wring or twist the wig.
Can You Wash Synthetic Wigs
Synthetic wigs can be washed to help extend their lifespan and keep them clean. This can be done every 8-14 wears and can be done just like you would any other wig. However, you can let it soak for 5-10 minutes instead and also are able to use a mild laundry detergent if you don’t have shampoos or dish soap available.
Washing Synthetic Wigs with Laundry Detergent
- Step 1. Prepare a bath – Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent.
- Step 2 – Soak & wash – Submerge the wig and let it soak for 15-30 minutes.
- Step 3. Rinse & dry – Thoroughly rinse the wig and cap with cold water. Then gently squeeze out excess water and let it air dry.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Wig Shampoo
There is a few alternatives you can use if you don’t have wig shampoo:
- Baby shampoo
- Baking soda
- Mild laundry detergent
- Fabric softener
- Mild dish soap
How to Disinfect a Wig Without Washing it
There’s a couple of methods you can use to disinfect a wig without washing it that ensures you kill germs and eliminate odors:
- Alcohol spray – This method is best for sanitizing and killing germs. Flip the wig inside out and lightly spray the cap with 70-99% isopropyl alcohol to disinfect.
- Baking soda – This option is best for eliminating odors. Mix baking soda with water to spray on the hair or cap to neutralize smells without having to soak your wig.
How to Care for Wigs
There’s a few things you need to do in order to properly care for a wig:
- Washing – Clean your wig every 8-14 wears or if you need to remove old product. Disinfecting to remove germs and/or odors can be done in between washes.
- Conditioning – Conditioning can be done with new wigs before styling or after washing older wigs.
- Proper storage – Always keep wigs stored on a stand/head or in a box to help maintain shape. Be sure they are stored in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Detangling – Brushing and detanglers can be used to remove excessive tangles.
- Lace care – Clean lace with a soft toothbrush or soap. Be careful not to damage the knots.
How to Care for Curly Wigs
To keep the curls locked in, there’s additional maintenance you may need to do:
- Use the right products – The right styling products is always a must for wigs. .
- Avoid heat – Only air dry curly wigs to avoid heat damage.
- Detangling – Always be gentle when detangling curly wigs and use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Hydration – Use a spray bottle with water and a leave-in conditioner to rehydrate and revive curls after wearing the wig.
Can You Use Conditioner on Wigs
You can use conditioners on a wig, however you need to make sure you use the right one. Use specialized wig conditioners for synthetic wigs to avoid buildup, whereas human hair wigs can handle mild conditioners.
How to Condition Wigs
To condition a wig, apply the conditioner to the hair, avoiding the cap and knots. Then either leave it in or rinse it out depending on the specific conditioner you use.
How to Restore Synthetic Wigs
Over time, your wig might lose it’s sleek look and styling. So you’ll want to restore it. Synthetic wigs though require specific wig supplies to ensure you don’t damage it or make it worse. For more in depth troubleshooting, check out our guide.
- Wash your wig after every 8-14 wears
- Spot clean dried, visible styling product
- Restyle as needed
- Detangle knotty wigs
- Defrizz if a wig becomes overly frizzy
- Deep condition after washing your wig
- Store wigs properly to avoid tangling, loss of style or damage
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