If you’re dealing with smelly crochet braid or find yourself needing to wash it while wearing the hairstyle alongside your natural hair, you may be wondering if it’s possible to wash crochet braids.
If the answer is yes, then you might be eager to know how to properly wash crochet hair. With numerous crochet braid hairstyles available, it’s important to understand the importance of washing them when necessary.
So let’s check both situations: washing crochet braid hairstyles before and after installing it.
Can You Wash Crochet Hair?
Yes, you can wash crochet hair. In fact, washing crochet hair is an important part of maintaining its cleanliness and longevity.
Regular washing helps remove dirt, product buildup, and oils that can accumulate over time.
By maintaining cleanliness, you can ensure that your crochet hair looks fresh and retains its quality for an extended period.
But there are some general guidelines for washing crochet braids. In order to do that right and not make a mess of your new hair, you need to follow the steps described in the how-to section of this article.
If you need to wash them again after being installed, just take them off. Kidding! You don’t need to do that. So, what should you do?
Can You Wash Crochet Hair After Being Installed?
Yes, you can also wash crochet hair after it has been installed. However, having all your natural hair underneath a new one, which is knotted on it, it might be a pain in the neck to wash crochet hair after installing it.
So, it is recommended to uninstall it and wash it with your hands. If you still want to wash it without uninstalling it, it’s important to be gentle to avoid loosening or disturbing the crochet braids or twists.
- Get into the shower (or deep inside the water-filled bathtub) and wet your hair with warm water (not hot, because hot water can straighten the curls).
- Dilute a mild shampoo with water in a spray bottle. This will allow you to apply the shampoo directly to the scalp and avoid excessive wetting of the crochet hair.
- Spray the diluted shampoo onto the scalp, focusing on the roots. Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp using your fingertips to cleanse it. Be careful not to tug or pull on the crochet hair.
- Rinse the scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring that all the shampoo is rinsed out. Avoid applying direct water pressure to the crochet hair to prevent unraveling or loosening of the style.
- Apply a small amount of conditioner to the ends of the crochet hair, avoiding the scalp and roots. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse well.
- Gently squeeze out excess water from the hair and pat it dry with a towel. Allow the crochet hair to air dry completely before styling or applying any heat.
If you need to repeat any of the steps, do it. I’d suggest doing steps 2,3, and 4 twice.
Can You Wash Crochet Hair In Washing Machine?
No, you should not wash crochet hair in the washing machine. Crochet hair is a type of hair extension made from synthetic fibers, and subjecting it to the washing machine can result in tangling and damage to the fibers.
Instead, it is recommended to hand wash crochet hair using mild shampoo and conditioner.
How To Wash Crochet Hair Before Installing It?
As much as you can wash your crochet braids, you can also make a mess out of your hair by doing it wrong, as this hair can get tangled or pulled away, so just be patient.
To wash crochet hair that is not yet installed, you can follow these steps:
- Prepare a Basin or Sink: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Make sure the water level is enough to submerge the crochet hair completely.
- Dilute Shampoo: Add a small amount of shampoo suitable for synthetic hair or the specific type of hair used in your crochet hair. Mix the shampoo with the water until it is evenly distributed.
- Immerse the Crochet Hair: Place the crochet hair in the water and gently swish it around. Use your fingers to work the shampoo through the hair, ensuring that it reaches all the strands.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and rinse the crochet hair with clean, lukewarm water. Continue rinsing until all the shampoo is removed, and the water runs clear.
- Apply Conditioner (Optional): If desired, you can apply a small amount of conditioner designed for synthetic hair or your specific type of crochet hair. Gently distribute the conditioner throughout the hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Leave it on for a few minutes.
- Rinse Again: Rinse the hair thoroughly with clean water to remove the conditioner entirely.
- Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water: Once the hair is rinsed, carefully squeeze out the excess water from the crochet hair. Avoid twisting or wringing the hair, as it may cause damage or tangling.
- Air Dry: Allow the crochet hair to air dry completely. Lay it flat on a towel or hang it up, ensuring good air circulation. Avoid using heat styling tools or blow dryers, as high heat can damage synthetic fibers.
By following these steps, you can effectively wash your crochet hair before installing it. Do not wash your crochet braids too often.
Washing them too often can dry out the hair and cause it to break. You should wash your crochet braids every 2-3 weeks, or as needed.
FAQs
How often should I wash my crochet hair?
You should wash your crochet hair anytime you need to. If you use products that leave build-ups, or your hair is oily, you sweat a lot, etc. you may need to wash it more often.
How long do crochet box braids last?
Crochet box braids usually last between 4 and 6 weeks, more or less depending on the way that they were installed, maintenance, hair type, hair quality, etc.
Hope you managed to wash your crochet hair, so you can totally enjoy your clean hairdo. Don’t forget to put some true love into your hair!
