As someone who owns a collection of wigs—from synthetic rainbow-colored styles to delicate human hair pieces—I’ve learned the hard way that improper storage can turn a stunning investment into a tangled mess. Whether you’re a wig-wearing veteran or a newbie, understanding how to store wigs properly is the key to preserving their beauty and extending their lifespan. Let’s dive into practical strategies for keeping your wigs in pristine condition, whether they’re resting at home or accompanying you on adventures.
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Before stashing your wig away, preparation is crucial. Start by gently brushing it with a wide-tooth comb or wig-specific brush to remove knots and tangles. For synthetic wigs, avoid heat styling tools unless they’re labeled as heat-resistant. Human hair wigs, however, can benefit from a light spritz of leave-in conditioner to maintain softness.
I once made the mistake of storing a wig without cleaning it first—a leftover trace of hairspray caused the fibers to stiffen over time. Now, I always wash my wigs according to their material (using cold water and mild shampoo for synthetics, and sulfate-free products for human hair wigs) and let them air-dry completely. Dampness invites mold and odors, so patience here pays off.
There are three common ways to store wigs. You can choose according to the tools you currently have.
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Wig stands or mannequin heads are my go-to for daily storage. They help maintain the wig’s shape and prevent crushing. I put two wig stands on the shelf next to my dressing table to store the wigs I wear frequently, and it also makes it convenient for me to style the wigs!
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Unlike cotton, silk or satin bags, reduce friction and static, which can fray wig fibers. I store my favorite lace-front wig in a satin pouch, and it’s stayed tangle-free for months.
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Original wig boxes with ventilation holes are ideal for protection against dust and sunlight. If you don’t have the original packaging, a breathable cardboard box lined with acid-free tissue paper works. Secure the wig with a hair net to keep it from shifting.
In addition to storing wigs at home, storing wigs when traveling or on business trips is also a headache for many people. Don't stress, here are two simple emergency solutions.
Invest in a sturdy, compact wig case with compartments. My travel case has a hard shell for crush resistance and mesh panels for airflow, perfect for road trips or flights.
For synthetic wigs, gently fold them with the hair facing inward to minimize creases. I usually place mine in a silk scarf before tucking it into a suitcase pocket. Human hair wigs are less forgiving, so I pack them flat at the top of my luggage.
✅ Keep wigs away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity.
✅ Label storage containers to avoid rummaging through multiple boxes.
❎ Hang wigs on hooks for extended periods—this stretches the cap.
❎ Store wigs near perfumes or chemicals, which can degrade fibers.
Over the years, adopting these proper wig storage habits has saved me hundreds of dollars and countless styling headaches. We hope you find these tips on how to best store your wig useful! For more advice on wigs, check out more blog posts.