How To Properly Store Your Wigs To Extend The Lifespan?

We all know that human hair wigs come with a hefty price tag. But nearly as important is knowing how to store your grand collection of glamour at home. Especially if you own your custom tuft due to medical hair loss or want a new everyday look— staying informed on proper storage and care is key. After all, when our locks are out of sight, it doesn't mean they don't need some TLC still! 

So here's the scoop on keeping our wig-wearing adventures afloat —whether little dress-up trips are on the horizon right now or not yet in sight— by learning the basics of wig maintenance. In this blog post, we aim to share with you exactly that: how best to let your locks primp in peace until their time in the spotlight comes around again. Seize the day despite staying socially distanced and ensuring hair piece stays unharmed. So without further ado, let's get into it.

Why Should We Store Wigs?

1. Save money. As we all know, human hair wigs are very expensive, prices ranging from $150 to $500, and some virgin hair prices even over $1000, not everyone can afford this price, with a proper method to store your wig can prolong the wig's lifespan. 

2. Save time. Try to guess, when you are hurrying to go to a wedding or a party, a perfect wig can save you much time, you don’t have to spend time washing it, blowing dry, or maintaining it, just take it out and put it on can be ok, a neat and soft wig can give you a good mood.

3. Avoid wigs from dust and sunshine. When a wig suffers a long time heat of from the sun, it will become drier and drier, and if it is just thrown into the corner, I swear you will not want to install it again. So terrible!

Preparing Your Wig Before Storage

Before we dive into the technical details, please allow us to bear one important reminder: Preparing the wig is an essential step before storing it. It wouldn't do us any good if we accidentally forgot this all-important task. We know that preparing your favorite wigs can feel like a chore, but don't worry – we're here to guide you through! Here are some surefire hacks for prepping your wig so it'll look just as lusciously and fresh from usage to storage:

1. Washing

Just like you would with your hair, the best way to preserve the worth of your wig is by taking proper care of it. We can all relate to how neglected hair becomes unhygienic and starts giving off an unpleasant smell when we go days or weeks without washing it; this same concept applies to wigs too. 

Avoid skipping wash days as often as possible because that could compromise their health over time and affect its value significantly. Before storing, make sure to give your wig a proper wash to clean out any dirt, bacteria, or product build-up. Be gentle all the time. Washing a wig is a skillful art, this will determine how long your wig will last with the original quality and luster. 

2. Apply Conditioner

After washing the wig with your favorite shampoo, it's time for conditioner! Don't forget that this step is just as important for wigs as it is for your scalp. Use a good quality conditioner to give the wig some nourishment and moisture. 

It's the key to keeping your human hair wigs soft and smooth. Once you're done conditioning, add in some styling creams or oils to maintain its shape and volume for a longer time without losing its appeal or texture.

3. Drying Out

No one likes running around with damp hair, and wigs are no exception. Make sure to completely air dry your wig before storing it away or it'd be susceptible to mildew growth or mold formation (which is not what we want). 

To ensure your wig isn't damp anymore, you can use a blow dryer in a cool setting or simply let it sit in an area filled with good air circulation. Your wig will be ready to store once the hair strands are dry completely.

4. Detangle and Styling

This step is necessary for wigs with curls or waves, as it will help maintain their texture and shape. Take a wide-tooth comb and brush out the tangles gently so to prevent snagging or matting over time. 

If you own a straight wig, make sure to use a paddle brush to keep the strands tangle-free and smooth. And don't forget to use a bit of heat protectant spray or styling cream before using any heating tools.

Now that you've prepped your wig, it's time to store it away! As long as you follow these simple steps, your wig will stay healthy and beautiful for a long time to come.

Best Ways To Storing Your Wig

It's quite easy to give your wig the royal treatment when it comes to storing, so let's get into our best ways for keeping your hairpiece safe and sound until its next glamorous moment in the spotlight. Here's how to store your wig properly:

1. Store Wigs on Wig Stands or Heads

Every wig should have a place of its own in every savvy fashionista's closet – and the easiest solution is to get a wig stand or a mannequin head! Most women would love to choose this method, the reason is that these wig heads are just like human heads and can help maintain the style and shape of your wig well, whether it is a human hair wig or a synthetic wig.

Ways to Store Wigs on Wig Stands or Heads:

• Place the wig on the mannequin head and adjust it so that it fits perfectly.

• Use bobby pins to secure the wig in place.

• Wrap a scarf or towel around the mannequin head to keep dust and dirt away from your wig.

2. Store Wigs on Hanging Wig Stands

One excellent substitute for a mannequin head is a wig hanger, especially if space is limited! To assemble it, just slide one piece into the other, and place the ring on top. Done in just a few moments' work – easy peasy! Not to mention, wig hangers can carry virtually any manner of hairpiece. May they be long or short, real or faux -- this hanger will handle 'em all. 

Plus, don't forget that naughty wigs should be kept in dry areas away from wild gusts and duster temperatures afterward. No matter what styling tricks you've done. Letting it rest on the hair hanger makes this chore a bit easier and helps your mane keep its bouncy shape once it's time to take center stage once again.

3. Store Wigs in Silk Satin Wig Bags 

In the hair community, silk has trumped cotton in one very big way—its moisture-retaining capabilities! That makes satin bags perfect for your post-styling wig storage endeavors. Fret not—the drawstring design of the silk satin wig bag will make it both convenient to carry and easy to open. 

With a spacious interior, even multiple hair bundles can find their home if needed. Some lucky souls out there may even have a chic silk satin bag included with their purchased wigs... you'll want to hold on to those sweet deals! Not only do they add luxurious feels and further greater convenience, they even protect our luscious locks from dreaded dingy static and wig friction—all of which threaten our precious locks!

Ways to Store Wigs in Silk Satin Wig Bags:

• Place the wig in the bag and use the drawstrings to close it.

• Hang the bag on a hook or loop it around your wrist for easy transportation.

• Store the wig away from heat and humidity when not in use.

4. Store Wigs in A Carton Box

Nothing says organization like a box! And with the wide range of sizes and shapes currently offered, it's easier than ever to find one that suits your space. This is especially advantageous for those who have multiple hairpieces or bundles on hand.

Just make sure that the box is light-proof and airtight. This will help keep dust and other foreign particles out while still allowing your wig to "breathe" without becoming too dry, brittle, or fuzzy.

Ways to Store Wigs in A Carton Box:

• After washing, drying, and detangling the wig, fold it and place it in a carton box.

• Line the bottom of the box with tissue paper or bubble wrap before placing the wig inside.

• Stack boxes to create more space in your closet.

• Label each box for easy organization.

How To Store Wigs In Traveling?

It can happen frequently for people who love travel - Travel with wigs. Alright, how can we store your wig in traveling? The answer is to pack your wig in a silk bag or a wig packing bag to prevent it from getting tangled or damaged by something else in your luggage. A strong plastic container is the best choice which can protect your wig and keep its shape and style.

In addition, it is necessary to bring some styling tools and hair-care products on travel, like wide tooth comb, holding spray, brush, etc.

Do and Don't Do When Storing Your Wig

Do:

Do wash and detangle your wig before storing it. A good condition can make your wig last longer.

Do store your wig in a cool and dry place.

Do place your wig away from kids and pets. If you don’t want your cute wig to be scratched, torn, and pulled, store your wig in a place that kids and pets can’t touch.

Don't:

Don't store your wig while damp. Store a damp wig can cause big damage to your hair strands and bring mold, mildew, and an unpleasant smell.

Don't store your wig in a humid place. Storing your wig in a humid place can cause the same bad result as a damp wig. Your wig can become weak and easy to break and bring bad smells.

Don't store your wig in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can ruin your hair strands in the long run by weakening them and dulling their color. Remember, never store your wigs near a heat source.

Don't crumple your wig before storing it.

Final Thoughts

That's it! Now you're equipped with all of the knowledge you need to properly store your wigs for years of good looks! Following just a few simple steps can help extend the lifespan of your hairpiece and keep it looking great for any occasion. Happy styling!