Keeping your wigs in top shape is super important. Whether you have human hair wigs or synthetic wigs, proper storage will keep them looking fresh and last longer. In this guide, we’ll show you the best ways to store your wigs so they stay beautiful.
Why Proper Wig Storage Matters
Storing your wigs correctly helps them stay in good condition. It stops them from getting tangled, dirty, or damaged. Plus, when your wigs are stored properly, they are easier to style and wear.
Getting Your Wig Ready for Storage
Before putting your wig away, you need to prepare it. Here’s how:
1. Clean Your Wig
- Wash and Condition: Make sure your wig is clean. Use shampoo and conditioner made for wigs. For human hair wigs, you can use the same products you use on your natural hair. For synthetic wigs, use wig-specific products to avoid damage.
Read More: How to Wash a Human Hair Wig
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the wig well to remove any shampoo or conditioner. Leftover products can build up and harm the wig.
- Dry Completely: Let your wig air dry completely before storing it. Don’t use high heat because it can damage both synthetic and human hair wigs. Use a wig stand to help keep its shape while drying.
2. Detangle Your Wig
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Gently comb your wig with a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid breaking the hair fibers.
- Apply Leave-In Conditioner: For human hair wigs, you can use a leave-in conditioner to keep the hair soft and manageable. Don’t use heavy products that can weigh the hair down.
3. Style Your Wig
- Keep the Shape: If your wig has a certain style, make sure it keeps its shape before storing. Use rollers or pins for curls or waves. For straight wigs, make sure they are smooth and tangle-free.
Best Ways to Store Your Wigs
Here are some good ways to store your wigs depending on what you need:
1. Wig Stands and Mannequin Heads
- Wig Stands: These are great for keeping the shape of your wigs. They let air flow through, which stops moisture and mold. Pick stands that match the length and style of your wigs.
- Mannequin Heads: These are best for styled wigs. They keep the wig in its original shape. Cover the wig with a hairnet or silk scarf to protect it from dust.
2. Satin or Silk Bags
- Satin Bags: Satin Bags are gentle on wig fibers and stop tangling. They’re good for storing wigs in a drawer or suitcase. Make sure the wig is dry and detangled before putting it in the bag.
- Silk Scarves: You can wrap your wig in a silk scarf before putting it in a bag. This helps keep the wig’s moisture and stops static.
3. Original Packaging
- Wig Boxes: If you have the original box, use it. These boxes are made to keep the wig’s shape and protect it from dust.
- Plastic Containers: Use containers with ventilation holes if you don’t have the original box. Make sure they’re big enough to not squish the wig.
4. Hanging Storage
- Hanging Hooks: For long wigs, hanging them can stop tangling and keep their length. Use hooks or hangers made for wigs. Make sure the area is dry and out of direct sunlight .
Tips for Storing Wigs Long-Term
If you need to store your wig for a long time, follow these extra tips:
1. Avoid Sunlight and Heat
- Cool, Dry Place: Keep your wigs in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Sunlight can fade the color and damage the hair.
Relevant Content: How to Carry Hair Wigs in Hot Weather: A Beginner’s Guide
- Heat Sources: Keep wigs away from radiators, heaters, and stoves. Too much heat can melt synthetic fibers and damage human hair wigs.
2. Control Humidity
- Dehumidifiers: Use a dehumidifier in the storage area to control moisture. High humidity can cause mold and mildew on your wigs.
- Silica Gel Packs: Put silica gel packs in the storage containers or bags to absorb extra moisture. This keeps the wigs dry and mold-free.
3. Regular Checks
- Inspect Regularly: Even if you don’t wear your wigs often, check them for damage or mold. Fix any issues right away.
- Recondition: For human hair wigs, use reconditioning treatments every few months to keep the hair soft and healthy.
4. Rotate Wigs
- Don’t Overuse One Wig: If you have several wigs, rotate them. This stops one wig from wearing out too fast.
- Freshen Up: Before wearing a stored wig, shake it gently and style it to make it look fresh.
Different Storage Tips for Different Wig Types
1. Human Hair Wigs
- Keep Moisture: Human hair wigs need moisture to stay soft. Store them with a leave-in conditioner or a few drops of oil on the ends.
- Keep Shape: Use wig stands or mannequin heads to keep the style. Recondition the wig every few months for long-term storage.
2. Synthetic Wigs
- Avoid Heat: Synthetic wigs can get damaged by heat. Keep them away from heat sources and sunlight.
- Stop Static: Use anti-static sprays before storing. Use satin bags or wrap them in silk scarves to stop friction.
3. Lace Front Wigs
- Handle Carefully: Lace front wigs are delicate. Store them on mannequin heads to keep the lace front in good shape.
- Protective Covers: Use hair nets or silk scarves to cover the wig and protect the lace from dust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes people make when storing wigs:
1. Storing Wigs Wet
- Dry Completely: Never store a wet wig. Moisture can cause mold and damage the hair.
2. Using Tight Containers
- Give Space: Make sure storage containers are big enough to not squish and deform the wig.
3. Ignoring Maintenance
- Regular Checks: Regularly check your stored wigs to avoid unexpected problems. Neglecting them can cause permanent damage.
Conclusion
Proper wig storage is essential for keeping your wigs looking good and lasting longer. By following these tips, you can make sure your wigs stay fresh, tangle-free, and ready to wear anytime. Remember to clean and prepare your wig before storing, choose the right storage method, and avoid common mistakes. With these tips, your wigs will stay in excellent condition, giving you beautiful and versatile hairstyles for years.
Taking care of your wigs will pay off, making sure they look as good as new. Happy wig wearing and storing!
If you have any questions or need advice on wig storage, feel free to reach out. Keeping your wigs fresh and beautiful is easy with these simple steps.