How to Clean a Wig: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you wear wigs regularly, you’ve probably wondered: How do I wash my wig without damaging it? Whether you're dealing with a human hair wig or wondering how to wash a synthetic wig, the right technique makes all the difference.

Cleaning your wig properly helps maintain its style, shine, and lifespan. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean a wig at home, safely and easily.

What You’ll Need

• Wide-tooth comb or wig brush

• Wig shampoo (specially formulated for synthetic or human hair wigs)

• Wig conditioner (optional for synthetic, recommended for human hair)

• A basin or sink

• Towel

• Wig stand or mannequin head

• Optional: detangling spray

How Do I Wash My Wig?

Whether your wig is human hair or synthetic, the steps are very similar. The only major difference is the type of products you use and how you dry and style it afterward.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Detangle First

Before washing, gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb. Start at the tips and work your way up to avoid pulling and breakage.

Step 2: Prepare Cool Water

Fill a clean sink or basin with cool to lukewarm water. Never use hot water, especially on synthetic wigs—it can damage the fibers.

Step 3: Add Wig Shampoo

Pour a small amount of wig shampoo into the water and mix it. Use only products designed for wigs. Regular shampoos contain sulfates and alcohol, which can dry out or damage the wig.

Step 4: Wash Gently

Submerge the wig in the water and let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Swirl it gently—don’t rub, scrub, or twist. For synthetic wigs, avoid rough handling, as it may cause tangling or frizz.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Hold the wig under cool running water until all the shampoo is washed out. Always rinse in the direction of the hair to prevent knotting.

Step 6: Apply Conditioner (Optional)

For human hair wigs, apply a wig conditioner from mid-length to ends. For synthetic wigs, you can skip this step or use a spray-on leave-in conditioner.

Step 7: Dry It Naturally

Gently blot the wig with a towel—never wring or twist. Place it on a wig stand and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid using a hairdryer unless the wig is labeled as heat-resistant.

How to Wash a Synthetic Wig

When it comes to how to wash a synthetic wig, here are a few important things to remember:

• Always use cold water

• Only use synthetic wig shampoo and conditioner

• Never use heat to dry or style it

• Do not brush when wet—wait until fully dry

Synthetic wigs bounce back to their original style after drying, so there’s no need to restyle them unless they’re heat-friendly.

How Often Should You Wash a Wig?

• For daily wear: wash every 7–10 wears

• For occasional wear: wash after every few uses or when buildup is visible

• For curly wigs: wash less often and use detangling spray regularly

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to clean a wig, it’s easy to keep your synthetic or human hair wig looking fresh and fabulous. The key is using the right products, gentle handling, and proper drying.

Washing your wig doesn’t need to be complicated. Just follow these steps and give your wig the care it deserves.