Having a collection of wigs at home can be fun and expressive, but proper storage is key to keeping your wigs looking and feeling their best. This guide will walk you through the basics of how to store your wigs at home.
Should I store my wigs on a wig stand or lay them flat?
Most wig experts recommend storing your wigs on a wig stand rather than laying them flat. Hanging the wigs on stands helps maintain their shape and style. It prevents flattening of the fibers that can occur when the wig lays flat for prolonged periods.
Wig stands come in a few styles – full head stands that have a foam head shape, half-head stands, or basic wig blocks. Choose one that fits your wig type best.
If you don’t have wig stands, you can improvise by carefully draping the wigs over the neck of a sturdy hanger. Just be sure not to stretch out the cap size.
Only store a wig laying flat if it’s in a box during transport or if the fibers are already completely flattened and stretched out. At that point, gravity won’t change the shape much.
Should I keep my wig on its original styrofoam head?
The styrofoam wig heads that come inside the wig’s packaging are handy for initial at-home storage. However, they aren’t ideal for long-term everyday storage.
Here’s why:
- The styrofoam material can gradually flatten and frizz the wig fibers over time. Prolonged contact causes friction and tension.
- The styrofoam head is often a smaller size, which can stretch out the wig cap.
- Styrofoam heads don’t allow airflow to circulate fully within the fibers.
If storing your wig for more than a couple weeks, transfer it onto a fabric wig stand or block. The gentler, breathable materials will extend your wig’s lifespan.
How can I store wig caps to prevent stretching?
To prevent the wig cap from losing its shape and stretching over time, avoid pulling tightly on the cap material. Here are some tips:
- If possible, store the wig on a head or block that matches its cap size – don’t size up or down.
- Position the cap straight onto the stand without angling or tugging.
- Smooth out any wrinkles gently rather than pulling hard.
- Every so often, reshape by gently steam blocking the cap material.
You can also alternate between two same-sized heads or stands if you own multiples of one wig style. Switching places stresses the material less over time.
Should I keep wig fibers brushed out or tucked in?
Most wig experts recommend fully brushing out the fibers before storage. Don’t tuck them into the cap.
Here’s why brushing is beneficial:
- It prevents tangled knots that can damage and tear the material.
- Air circulates better throughout the brushed fibers, preventing moisture buildup.
- The shape holds better when brushed out than when tucked in.
Use a wide-tooth wig brush or comb specifically made for wigs. Brush through from the ends up to the roots until smooth. For curly wigs, use a pick or fingers to gently separate the curls instead.
Should I store my wig in its original box?
The original wig box is handy for transporting your wig safely. But for everyday storage at home, it’s better to keep the wig out of the box.
Storing in the box long-term can compress the fibers unevenly and prevent airflow. The cardboard also accumulates dust and debris over time, which can transfer to the wig.
However, do continue using the original packaging if you need to transport the wig or keep it very protected. Just take the wig out for daily home storage.
Should I use wig clips while storing?
Wig clips can help secure the wig firmly in place on the stand during storage. However, they aren’t strictly necessary in most cases.
Here are some instances where wig clips are useful:
- If the wig feels loose on the stand.
- If it’s a style with bangs or a part that needs to stay put.
- When storing in a moving vehicle or for transport.
- If you live in an earthquake-prone area.
Avoid relying on clips permanently since they create tension. But during transport or for extra security, they help keep the wig stable.
How can I best store wig adhesives and tapes?
Wig adhesives like wig glues, tapes, and pins usually come with their own storage cases. Follow the product’s instructions for optimal storage.
Some tips for best practice:
- Store upright in an airtight hard case away from direct sunlight and heat.
- If the glue comes with special trays or sleeves, keep those intact.
- Only keep the glue you are actively using in open air. Seal remaining tubes in the case.
- Don’t store glue tubes tip down or sideways long-term to prevent leaks.
Keeping wig adhesives in controlled conditions preserves their stickiness and prevents drying out.
What is the best way to store human hair wigs?
Human hair wigs require a bit more care than synthetic wig materials when it comes to storage. Here are some tips:
- Fully detangle and brush the human hair out before storing.
- Use a smoothing or leave-in conditioner to control frizz.
- Keep the human hair wig on the larger side of its adjustable bands to prevent tension.
- Maintain the cuticle direction of the human hair strands when placing on the stand.
- Consider using a fabric softener dryer sheet inside the cap to control static.
- Store human hair wigs away from direct heat or light sources.
The overall goals are protecting the cuticle, minimizing friction, and preventing dryness. With some extra care, human hair wigs can last for years.
How should I store wigs for long periods of non-use?
If storing a wig for an extended time when you won’t be wearing it, a few extra steps help it last.
- Thoroughly brush and detangle the fibers first.
- Spray wig fibers with a storage spray or conditioning spray.
- Secure on a wig stand using wig clip tabs.
- Place the wig stand inside a clear plastic storage bin with a lid.
- Seal the tub and store it on a shelf away from direct sun and heat.
- Consider placing silica moisture absorbing packs inside the tub.
- Periodically air out the wig every few months.
This helps create the ideal controlled environment for long-term wig storage. With proper storage, most good quality wigs can be viable for 3-5 years.
Where is the best location in my house to store wigs?
The ideal spot to store your wig collection is somewhere away from direct light, heat, and humidity.
Recommended locations include:
- A closet shelf or armoire
- Under the bed (if totally enclosed)
- A dresser drawer
- A storage bin or trunk
Avoid storing wigs:
- By a window with direct sun exposure
- In an attic or basement with moisture issues
- Directly next to a heat vent or appliance
- In a garage or shed with temperature extremes
Controlled conditions are the key to ideal wig storage spaces. Choose an indoor location that remains relatively cool, dry and dark.
What temperature should I keep the wig storage space?
Aim to keep wigs stored in temperatures between 50-70°F (10-20°C). This comfortable indoor temperature range helps prevent issues.
If it’s colder, the fibers can become brittle and dry. Warmer than 70°F increases risk of excess moisture and fiber damage.
Ideally use a thermometer to monitor. Keeping room temperature in check year-round is also beneficial for general wig longevity.
What humidity level is best for stored wigs?
The ideal relative humidity range for stored wigs is 40-60%. This moderate level prevents both dryness and dampness.
Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity. If the storage area leaning dry, you can use a humidifier. Too damp, add moisture-absorbing products.
Synthetic wigs need balanced humidity. For human hair wigs, err on the drier side at 40-50% humidity if possible.
Should I use any added products while storing my wig?
Some additional products can keep stored wigs in optimal condition:
- Wig stands – Using stands makes a huge difference rather than flat storage.
- Wig brushes – Detangling before storage prevents damage.
- Conditioning sprays – Formulas help smooth fibers and prevent dryness.
- Silica gel packs – Absorb excess moisture in the storage container.
- Cedar blocks – Place in storage boxes to repel insects.
- Dryer sheets – Prevent static and help fibers stay smooth.
Browse wig care aisles or online shops for recommended storage products. A few strategic extras can really boost longevity.
How often should I reshuffle or air out my stored wigs?
It’s smart to periodically reshuffle and refreshen your stored wig collection. Every 1-2 months is ideal.
Gently brush and air out each wig before returning to storage, even if you haven’t worn it. This helps:
- Prevent compression or distortion of the fibers over time.
- Allow fresh airflow to circulate through the strands.
- Restore bounce and volume throughout the wig.
- Extend the wearable life of the wig.
Also swap wig locations and stands during reshuffling. Avoid keeping one wig compressed in the same spot endlessly.
How can I store wigs for travel?
Traveling with wigs requires some adjustments to prevent damage en route:
- Place each wig inside its original box or a new ventilated wig box.
- Wrap the wig box in a plastic bag or dry cleaner bag.
- Pack wigs flat within your suitcase and cushion with clothes.
- Avoid packing wigs inside soft sided bags that can compress.
- Use wig clips on the stands or strips of tape across the parting to hold shape.
- Consider braiding long human hair wigs before packing.
The goal is minimizing motion, friction, and compression during transit. With protective steps, wigs can handle travel just fine.
Should I store my wig in a closet or drawer?
It’s best to store wigs on shelves inside closets rather than tucked inside drawers.
Closet benefits:
- More airflow and less stagnant conditions.
- More room for wig stands.
- Prevents crushing and flattening of fibers.
- Easy access for periodic reshuffling.
If you do store wigs folded in a drawer, lay flat in a box and cushion well with fabric. But shelves are ideal for wig longevity and ease.
How can I disinfect my wig storage areas?
Periodically disinfecting your wig storage areas helps keep them clean and dust-free:
- Gently wipe wig stands and heads with isopropyl alcohol.
- Clean storage bins and boxes with an antibacterial soap and water.
- Use disinfectant wipes on shelves, rods, hooks.
- Avoid harsh chemicals which may damage wig fibers.
- Let all parts completely dry before replacing wigs.
Disinfect storage areas every 1-2 months. This helps minimize odor and debris accumulation over time.
Conclusion
Proper at-home wig storage is crucial for keeping your wig investments looking fabulous. Focus on supporting wig shape using stands, preventing fiber damage from friction and heat, and keeping conditions clean and controlled. With some simple planning and accessories, your wig collection will stay gorgeous and ready to wear for seasons to come!
