How to Store Human and Synthetic Wigs

How to Store Human & Synthetic Hair Wigs

Written by

Adam Bennett

SHARE ON
inspect

Table of Contents

inbox

Contact our specialists now for Hair Replacement!

Wigs are fantastic – because they can instantly change your look, but what do you do when it’s time to put them away? Just put them anywhere, right? Wrong!

Wigs need proper care if you want them to stay looking great. Whether you’ve got a human hair wig or a synthetic hair wig, it deserves a bit of love and care.

You might think, “Why should I care about how to store a wig?” Well, imagine your own hair under a pillow every night and expecting it to look great the next day. Can that be possible? The answer is no, so the same happens to the wigs if you do not properly store and take care of them.

Anyway, who likes a flat wig? (At least, we don’t!)

Wigs need care to stay in shape, especially if you want to maintain the right wig density and life.

After all, life is too short for boring hair- or boring wigs!

Why is It Important to Store Your Wigs Properly?

Storing your wig properly is an absolute necessity for maintaining its longevity.

Questions such as how to store synthetic wigs or how to store human hair wigs largely depend on how much care, time, and attention you give to them.

Imagine this: You’ve planned a big night out, and you reach for your favourite wig with all the excitement. But you saw a tangled wig. Heartbreaking, isn’t it? 

This is where the importance of wig storage steps in! Proper storage is not just about keeping your wigs neat but also about preserving the love and investment you’ve put into them.

There is no rocket science when it comes to storing wigs; all you have to do is learn and follow some simple wig storage tips and understand what to avoid and why in our following sections, and be sure to get a “fresh-new wig” all the time. 

Remember, storing your wig is a super easy and necessary step for keeping your wig soft, hydrated, and tangle-free.

In addition, we are shedding some light on one of our blogs, Truth Behind Steve Harvey’s Wig“, to make you understand the role of wigs in public figure’s lives and how proper storage guarantees that wigs are ready for their moment under the spotlight.

How to Prepare Your Wig Before Storing?

Follow this proven method that can do wonders for your wig before storing it, 

W.A.S.P. (Wash, Air dry, Smooth, Preserve)

Cleansing your wig regularly is a smart move towards keeping it looking as fresh as possible. 

So try to wash your wig every week or two- and especially before storing it- use either a clarifying shampoo (for human hair) or a gentle, wig-safe shampoo (for synthetic hair) to remove glue from the lace front wig or any other buildup (oil).

TIP – Do not forget to use the conditioner.

Make sure your wig is completely dry before storing it

Your wig needs to be 100 percent dry before you even think about storing it.  Storing a wig that’s wet- or even slightly damp-can lead to mold and mildew. 

Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to smooth out tangles from the wig, removing any knots or tangles can help you maintain its shape.

Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to smooth out tangles from the wig, removing any knots or tangles can help you maintain its shape.

6 Ways to Store Your Wigs Without Head

To effectively store your wigs without a wig head, follow these quick five practical wig storage ideas; 

1) Store It in a Silk or Satin Bag -

Silk or satin wig storage bags are great for keeping the fibres of your wig intact, which means they are safe from the elements in your home that may cause it to frizz or even tangle. 

Plus, when stored in a bag, your wig, or alternatively, toupee hair piece, will not retain any moisture and stay soft and silky.

Just to let you know, the short wigs should be folded inside out and in half for storage. And, long wigs should also be folded inside and in half, but the longer fibres should wrap around your cap.

2) Store It in a Storage Box or Original Packaging Box -

Until now, there is no such reason why you can’t store your wigs long-term in the box they came in. 

However, any clear box or round flat box for storing your wig would be the best wig storage solution. 

Just make sure you lay your men’s wig or women’s wig flat in the box to retain its style, see that there is no creasing, and place that box in a cool, dry place.

3) Hang It on Wig Hangers

When storing wigs without heads, hangers are a great storage option for anyone with less space and multiple wigs. 

Wig hangers can be hung on hooks mounted to a wall or special hangers made exclusively for wigs.

4) Store It in a Wig Travel Box

Wig storage for travel can look daunting, but it is not!

A wig travel box is a great travel-friendly wig storage option. 

Some designs come with a lightweight, collapsible styrofoam head, keeping your wig in shape and style while in a box. It is portable and will not take up a lot of space in your travel box. This way, you can store the wigs even when travelling. 

Just bring it out of the box when you reach your destination and style it as you please.

5) Store It in a Shoe Box

A shoe box can serve as an excellent alternative for wig storage because it comes with enough space to keep the wig intact and easily stackable in your closet. 

6) Store It on Wig Stands

The best way to keep wigs in proper condition is to store them on wig stands or mannequin heads.

Depending on your space, you can have two or three wig stands or wig heads on top of your dressing table.

How to Store Your Wigs on a Wig Stand

Follow simple steps to ensure your wig remains in perfect condition on the wig stand too –

Step 1 - Select a wig stand that suits your needs.

Options available are,

Step 2 - Detangle your wig.

Brush your wig gently to remove any knots, and then style it as desired, ensuring it looks its best when placed on the wig stand.

Step 3 - Carefully position the wig on the stand.

If you use a mannequin head, ensure it fits properly to avoid slipping. 

Adjust the clips or supports for portable or hanging stands to secure the wig without pressing it.

Step 4 - Cover the wig for protection.

Use a hair net or a soft cloth to cover the wig while on the stand.

Step 5 - Store it in a proper location.

Place your wig stand in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or moisture.

4 Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Wigs

Simply avoid these four mistakes when storing wigs,

1) Not Adjusting Wig Caps Before Storage

This is important to address. Caps left unadjusted can stretch out, compromising fit and comfort when you wear the wig again!

2) Consistently Using Plastic Bags for Storage

Storing wigs in plastic bags for longer can trap moisture, leading to mildew, odour, and potential fibre damage.

3) Exposing It to Sunlight

Heat and sunlight can cause discolouration and weaken wig fibres, especially for synthetic wigs, which are more sensitive to high temperatures. So, avoid this mistake completely.

4) Not Using Proper Wig Stand Size

Using a stand that’s too large or too small can stretch the wig cap or fail to support its shape properly, and thus it will shorten the life of the wig and can damage it as well.

Consideration of Environmental Factors

When storing wigs, considering environmental factors is essential for maintaining their quality and longevity.

1) Keep in mind the temperature control

Wigs should be stored in a cool, dry place.

2) Manage humidity level

Aim for a balanced humidity level of around 50% to 70%.

3) Consider air circulation

Proper air circulation prevents moisture buildup, leading to unpleasant odours and damage.

FAQ’s

Edit Content
Yes, you can store a wig in a plastic bag, but not for a longer time.
Edit Content
Yes, you can store a wig in a ziplock bag.
Edit Content
Use a wig cap, wig tape, or a wig grip to keep your wig on head.
Edit Content

Yes, smoking and drinking both can impact hair health.

Edit Content

Because the hair system offers greater coverage for larger bald areas and provides a natural appearance.

Edit Content

Hair loss can occur at any stage, but it is often normal when people get older. 

Edit Content

It is advisable to consult a professional at the early signs of hair loss, like a receding hairline or excessive shedding.

Edit Content

Yes, lack of sleep causes hair loss.

Edit Content

Yes, too much heat can cause hair loss.

Edit Content

No, wearing hats or helmets cannot cause hair loss. But wearing it for a longer time can cause hair loss because of the heat generated from within.

Edit Content

Yes, stress can cause hair loss; to manage it, one can practice mindfulness and exercise and should take proper nutrition.

Conclusion

Proper wig storage is a must to do when it comes to taking care of both human hair and synthetic wigs. 

At IHS London, our expertise in hair replacement allows us to offer you the best tips for maintaining your wigs. 

Contact us today so we can introduce you to the best wig (hair system) care products designed to keep your wig looking fresh and new.

Author Profile

Adam Bennett

Adam Bennett is a Certified Trichologist at IHS Hair replacement with over 21 years of Unbeatable experience. Throughout his remarkable career, he has successfully completed an impressive 8000 hair replacement systems. Adam is dedicated to transforming lives and boosting self-confidence so that one can live with all the pride and confidence. Adam Bennett has served over 800 satisfied clients and still-counting, while helping them get their natural appearance and emotions back with all the pride and confidence.

More from the blog

Let's Talk.

Discover how we can transform your look and boost your confidence.

United Kingdom