How to Clean Extensions Before Storage
Hair extensions are a serious investment, and keeping them in top condition requires proper care before storage. Neglecting to clean and dry them thoroughly can lead to product buildup, mildew, and permanent damage. Follow these steps to maintain their softness, shine, and durability:
- Detangle First: Always brush extensions dry before washing to avoid breakage.
- Use Sulphate-Free Products: Opt for shampoos and conditioners with nourishing ingredients like Argan Oil or Aloe Vera.
- Wash Gently: Submerge extensions in lukewarm water, work shampoo down the strands, and rinse thoroughly.
- Condition Properly: Apply conditioner to mid-lengths and ends, avoiding roots, and rinse with cool water.
- Dry Completely: Air dry flat or use low heat to prevent mildew and unpleasant smells.
- Store Safely: Use a breathable storage bag, like Hair Wonderland’s Clip In Bag (AUD $54.00), to prevent tangling and damage.
Taking these steps ensures your extensions stay in great shape, ready for your next use. Clean, dry, and store them carefully to extend their lifespan and maintain their quality.
5-Step Hair Extension Cleaning and Storage Process
How to Store Clip-In Hair Extensions | Black Hairstyles
What You'll Need to Clean Your Extensions
Before diving into cleaning your extensions, make sure you have the right products and tools on hand. Using the wrong items can strip away moisture or cause unnecessary damage. Since extensions don't benefit from your scalp's natural oils, it's important to choose gentle, nourishing products to keep them looking their best.
Cleaning Products
The first step to proper extension care is choosing a sulphate-free shampoo. Many regular shampoos contain harsh sulphates, like Ammonium Laureth Sulphate, which can dry out your extensions and leave them brittle. Instead, opt for shampoos enriched with moisturising ingredients like Aloe Vera, Keratin, Argan Oil, or Coconut Oil. These not only maintain softness and shine but also avoid weighing down the hair.
Follow up with a hydrating conditioner. Look for conditioners containing Argan Oil, Silk Protein, or Jojoba, which are perfect for adding moisture. When applying conditioner, focus on the mid-lengths and ends to prevent slippage of the extensions. Also, stick to lukewarm water (around 32–38°C) while washing, as hot water can dry out or damage the fibres.
Once you've got your cleaning products sorted, it's time to think about the tools you'll need to handle your extensions with care.
Tools for Handling Extensions
Having the right tools is just as important as using the right products. Hair Wonderland offers an excellent range of specialised tools and accessories designed specifically for extensions. For detangling, they provide two great options: the Tangle Tamer Brush ($21.95) and the Detangle Brush ($29.95). These brushes feature soft, loop-style bristles that glide effortlessly through your extensions without snagging. Always detangle your extensions while they're dry, before washing, to minimise breakage.
For drying, use a microfibre towel or even a soft t-shirt. These materials absorb water quickly while reducing friction and frizz. To store your extensions, consider the Clip In Bag ($54.00) from Hair Wonderland. This breathable storage bag keeps dust away, prevents tangling, and allows proper air circulation. Lastly, a wide-tooth comb is a handy tool for gently distributing conditioner through your extensions during washing, ensuring even coverage without pulling or damaging the hair.
How to Clean Hair Extensions
With all your supplies ready, it’s time to dive into the cleaning process. By following these steps, you can keep your extensions looking fresh while avoiding tangling, matting, or damage to the wefts.
Detangling Your Extensions
Always detangle your extensions while they’re completely dry - brushing wet extensions can lead to breakage. Begin by removing your clip-in extensions and laying each weft flat on a clean towel or table. This setup helps prevent knots from worsening during the wash.
Use a bottom-up brushing method: gently work through the ends first, then move upwards to the mid-lengths and roots. Hold the weft firmly near the clips or bonds with one hand to stabilise it as you brush. This technique minimises stress on the hair fibres and keeps them intact.
For a full head of extensions, section the hair into 2–4 parts using clips. This makes detangling more manageable and reduces the risk of pulling. Clip-in extensions generally only need washing after 10 to 15 wears. Once detangled, you’re ready to move on to washing.
Washing Your Extensions
Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water (32–38°C) and add a small amount of sulphate-free shampoo. Submerge each weft and gently work the shampoo down the strands, avoiding any scrubbing or rubbing motions that could cause tangles or matting.
To keep the strands aligned and tangle-free, you can loosely secure the extensions near the clips with a ponytail holder. Let the shampoo sit for 1–2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water. Always rinse from the top of the weft down to the ends to maintain the hair’s smoothness and prepare it for conditioning.
Conditioning and Rinsing
Apply a hydrating conditioner starting from the mid-lengths to the ends, steering clear of the roots and attachment points. This prevents product buildup, which could weaken the bonds or cause slippage. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly, ensuring every strand gets the moisture it needs.
Allow the conditioner to sit for 5–10 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping the extensions soft and preventing brittleness. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with cool or cold water to seal the cuticles and lock in moisture. Make sure the water runs completely clear to avoid leaving any residue.
Gently squeeze out excess water using a microfibre towel - never wring or twist the extensions. Now your extensions are clean and ready to dry!
sbb-itb-dcde78e
Drying Your Extensions Before Storage
Once you've rinsed your extensions and gently squeezed out the excess water, the next step is crucial: making sure they are completely dry. Proper drying is essential to prevent issues like mildew, mould, and unpleasant odours.
Air Drying vs Low-Heat Blow Drying
Air drying is the gentlest option for maintaining your extensions’ moisture and strength. Lay each weft flat on a clean towel or hang them on a rod to allow air to circulate freely. While this method does take longer, it avoids exposing the hair to heat damage. As David Rogers from Soho Hair notes:
"Every now and then as well as for special occasions is fine, but on a more regular basis, it is best to let your extensions air dry to keep moisture and strength in the human hair".
If you're short on time, low-heat blow drying can be a faster option. Start by applying a heat protectant spray, then use a blow dryer on a cool or low heat setting - keeping the temperature below 180–190°C. Direct the airflow downward, from the weft to the ends, to help the hair maintain its natural alignment. Another option is to place your extensions in an airing cupboard or near a radiator (but not touching it) to speed up drying naturally without direct heat exposure. Taking the time to dry your extensions properly ensures they’re ready for hassle-free storage in your Clip In Bag.
Make Sure Extensions Are Completely Dry
Double-check that there’s no lingering moisture in the wefts or around the clips, as even a small amount of dampness can lead to mildew and unpleasant smells. The extensions should feel dry to the touch, at room temperature, with strands that separate easily. World Hair Extensions emphasises the importance of this step:
"If the hair is even a little wet, it could be a haven for mildew and a not so great smell after just a short time of storage".
Allowing enough time for thorough drying not only prevents these issues but also helps extend the lifespan of your extensions.
How to Store Your Extensions Properly
Once your extensions are completely dry, storing them the right way is crucial to keeping them in top condition. Proper storage shields your extensions from dust, tangling, and damage, helping them last anywhere from 9 to 12 months. Always make sure to secure the clips to prevent snagging.
Using a Clip In Bag for Storage
Hair Wonderland's Clip In Bag (AUD $54.00) is a great option for protecting your extensions. It keeps them safe from dust, tangles, and damage, while also allowing airflow to prevent stale or musty smells. The bag's design lets you hang it in your wardrobe, keeping your extensions organised and protected from environmental factors like UV rays.
For best results, lay your extensions flat in the bag to maintain their shape. If you have curly or wavy extensions, roll them gently to preserve their texture. Avoid hanging them solely by their clips, as this can cause unnecessary pressure and damage. As Cliphair puts it:
"Storing your hair extensions properly is part of a healthy, TLC-packed care routine that will keep your precious investment safe, improving its longevity".
Other storage methods might seem convenient but can come with additional risks.
Storage Bag vs Drawer Storage
You might be tempted to use a drawer for storing your extensions, but it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a dedicated Clip In Bag. Here's a quick comparison:
| Storage Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Clip In Bag | Shields extensions from dust, tangles, and damage; allows airflow; keeps them organised and straight; portable | Costs AUD $54.00; requires vertical hanging space |
| Drawer Storage | Utilises existing furniture; keeps extensions out of direct sunlight | Higher risk of tangling if stored loosely; extensions must be laid perfectly flat; poor airflow can lead to unpleasant smells; prone to damage from other items |
If you opt for drawer storage, use separate compartments or a dedicated storage box to minimise tangling. Loose storage in a drawer can lead to matting and make it harder to maintain your extensions. Also, avoid storing them in the bathroom, as heat and humidity can cause damage.
Conclusion
Taking care of your extensions doesn’t have to be complicated. The key lies in proper detangling, washing, drying, and storage. Start by gently detangling your extensions with a wide-tooth comb. When it’s time to wash them, opt for sulphate-free and alcohol-free products to help maintain their natural moisture. As Love the Style Hair Extensions explains:
"Unlike natural hair, extensions... do not have a direct source of moisture or nutrients. This makes washing and conditioning crucial to maintain their softness, shine and durability."
With the right care, premium Remy extensions can last six months or even longer, keeping their softness and shine intact. Washing your clip-in extensions every 10 to 15 wears and storing them in breathable materials will also go a long way in extending their lifespan.
To elevate your care routine, consider using trusted tools and products from Hair Wonderland. Their range of care essentials is designed to help you achieve that salon-quality finish at home, offering everything you need for maintaining your extensions.
FAQs
How often should I wash my hair extensions to keep them in good condition?
To keep your hair extensions looking great and lasting longer, only wash them when needed - like when there's visible product build-up or they start to feel dirty. For most extensions, this usually means cleaning them about two to three times a week or whenever necessary. Over-washing can take away their natural softness and shine, so it's best to avoid doing it too often. Stick to gentle, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain their texture and keep them in top condition.
What’s the best way to dry hair extensions without causing damage?
The best way to dry hair extensions is by letting them air-dry. This gentle, heat-free approach helps retain moisture and reduces the risk of breakage. After washing, gently pat the extensions with a clean towel to soak up excess water - avoid twisting or wringing them, as this can harm the fibres. Lay the extensions flat on a dry towel or hang them in a well-ventilated spot, keeping them away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Give them up to 24 hours to dry completely, as any lingering dampness could cause tangling or even mildew. Once fully dry, use a soft detangling brush - like the one from Hair Wonderland - to carefully smooth them out and get them ready for storage. This simple routine helps keep your extensions looking smooth, strong, and ready to wear.
Why should I use sulphate-free products on my hair extensions?
Using sulphate-free products is key to keeping your hair extensions looking and feeling their best. Sulphates can rob extensions of their moisture, making them dry, brittle, and more likely to tangle. Switching to sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners helps maintain hydration, keeps colours vibrant, and protects the bonds or wefts from unnecessary damage.
This small change can make a big difference, ensuring your extensions remain soft, full of life, and long-lasting, all while maintaining a natural appearance.
