How to Wash a Synthetic Wig Step-by-Step

Washing a wig for the first time can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be! The good news is that high-quality synthetic wigs are actually much easier to care for than human hair wigs. With the right products and a simple routine, you’ll keep your wig looking fresh, silky, and beautiful for years. At Godiva’s Secret Wigs, we’ve been teaching women how to wash and care for their wigs since 1997, and we’re breaking it all down for you here.

Why Wig Washing Matters

Synthetic wigs don’t get oily the way natural hair does, but they can pick up product buildup, sweat, odor and everyday dust. Washing your wig correctly will:

Keep fibers soft and tangle-free
Maintain the style and shape
Extend the lifespan of your wig
Keep it looking fresh and natural

The key is using products made specifically for high-quality synthetic wigs and following the right steps. Regular hair products are too harsh and can damage the fibers, so always stick with wig-safe options like our Wig Shampoo and Conditioner. We offer both scented and non-scented versions.

■ Want to see it in action? Watch Ro demonstrate here: How to Wash a Wig.

How Often Should You Wash a Synthetic Wig?

Unlike human hair, synthetic wigs don’t need frequent washing. In fact, washing too often can shorten their lifespan. We recommend washing once for every 10–15 wears. If you wear your wig every day, that usually means once every 2 weeks.

[Dani & Ro Tip] If your wig starts to look a little flat, smells less than fresh, or feels sticky from products, it’s time for a wash—even if it hasn’t been 10–15 wears yet. Also, if you smoke or wear heavy perfume, you may want to wash more often.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these wig care essentials:

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Synthetic Wig

Step 1: Detangle Gently

Before washing, gently brush through your wig with a wig brush to remove any knots or tangles. Start at the ends and work your way up to the top.

Step 2: Prepare the Water

Fill a sink or basin with cool water (never hot, as heat damages synthetic fibers). Add about a tablespoon of wig shampoo. Swish the water to mix.

Step 3: Washing the Wig

Use your fingers to gently knead the wig and work the shampoo through the hairs and wig cap. Spend about 1 minute or less. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, which can tangle the fibers.

Step 4: Rinse

Gently lift the wig out of the water and rinse under cool running water until the shampoo is completely out. Rinse, rinse, rinse!

Step 5: Condition

Add less than an inch of water to the sink. While your wig is soaking wet, put the conditioner in your hands and rub it all throughout the wig. Use the water in the sink to dilute the conditioner and spread it around. Rinse with cool water.

Step 6: Shake, Shake, Shake

Hold your wig by the tag in the back and give it a few good shakes in the shower or outside. Do not blot, wring, twist, or rub.

Step 7: Dry on a Wig Hanger

Clip the back of your wig to a Wig Hanger, hang upside down and let it drip dry completely in the shower or outside. Never use a hair dryer or apply heat unless your wig is specifically labeled as heat-friendly. High-quality synthetic wigs will dry back into their original style—no styling required!

[Dani & Ro Takeaway] The beauty of our high-quality synthetic wigs is that once they’re dry, they go right back into their original style. No blow drying, no curling irons, no stress!

Extra Wig Washing Tips

Wash wigs one at a time—never in a pile.
Use only cool water.
Keep styling products light between washes to avoid buildup.
Rotate between 2–20 wigs so each one lasts longer.

■ See how quick and easy it really is: Wig Care Tips with Dani & Ro.

FAQs About Washing Wigs

Can I use regular shampoo on a synthetic wig?
No—regular shampoo is too harsh and can strip the fibers. Always use products made for high-quality synthetic wigs.

Can I wash my wig in the washing machine?
Definitely not. Washing machines tangle and damage synthetic fibers. Always wash by hand.

How long does it take a wig to dry?
Usually overnight. Always plan ahead so your wig has plenty of time to air dry before you need it.

Do I need to style my wig after washing?
Nope! High-quality synthetic wigs are designed to bounce back to their original style once dry.

Why Trust Godiva’s Secret Wigs

At Godiva’s Secret Wigs, we’re a mother-daughter team (Dani & Ro) who not only sell wigs, but wear them ourselves. Since 1997, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of women feel confident with our exclusive line of lightweight, natural-looking synthetic wigs and toppers. With over 50 years of combined wig-wearing experience, plus our thriving YouTube channel and private Facebook group—Godiva’s Secret Wig Community — you’ll never be on this journey alone. Our community is filled with supportive women who share their stories, photos, and tips, making it the most encouraging place online for wig wearers. You can trust that every product we recommend has been tried, tested, and loved.

Before you buy, click here to virtually try-on our beautiful wig styles and colors:
Dani & Ro's Virtual Wig Try-On Room.

■ Ready to care for your wig the right way? Explore our full line of wig care products today.