Storing your wigs—What’s the best way?

I see this question a lot—what is the best way to store my wigs for a season or an extended time? I have seen a lot of answers on this topic. In the end, it’s up to an individual’s space, resources, and personal preference. But... there are some ways better than others.

A few storage tips:

1. Always make sure the wig you are storing is clean.
2. Make sure the wig is completely dry and there are no tangles.
3. Keep them away from heat and direct sunlight. They will dull your color and break down hair fibers. 
4. Keep them safe from children and pets. (A good idea in storage or not). 
5. If you want your wig to maintain its style better, invest in good-quality hairnets. 

For more short-term storage, consider these options:

1. Use the box it came in. They are stackable and labeled, making it easier for you to grab one and go. 
2. If you don’t have your wig box or need a way to travel with it that doesn’t take up so much space, fold your wig in half from ear to ear, insert it into a clean, plastic bag, and put tissue inside the wig cap to help it hold shape. You can use a Sharpie and label them to make searching for the one that you want easier.
3. Always travel with at least two wigs to ensure that you don’t get an ugly surprise if something happens to one. 
4. If you have space wig stands are great and convenient, especially if you rotate your wigs often. 
5. Invest in a shoe rack just for your wigs. The over-the-door racks are perfect for wig storage. 
6. You can also invest in airtight plastic containers for your wigs so that you can label them with the names and colors of each wig that is stored inside. It will save you time opening plastic bags when you go to search. 

What about wig stands? Wig heads? Which is best?

1. Collapsible wig stands are great if you are lacking space and just want one or two available all the time, and great for travel.
2. Wig stands are also helpful for styling because they let the wig fall as it is meant to, making it easier to style. Securing the wig stand is important to give you more flexibility.
3. Mannequin or wig “heads” can also be used for wig storage. Be careful of sizing because storing on this type of head can stretch the wig cap it’s too large. They often cost more than the others and are not travel friendly. Also, they take up space.
4. The lightweight styling foam heads are similar to the mannequin heads but less costly, and they are a bit more substantial than a wig stand. They do help keep the wig in shape and are great for those who keep a few wigs out at all times in a rotation. But are not great for travel, of course.

So, the answer is, get all three if you can. They each serve a different purpose. 

Remember, if you leave your wigs sitting out, they can collect dust just like anything else. Never fail to give your wigs a good shake before wearing, and if they are to be sitting in one place for longer periods, covering them with scarves will help protect them. 

Helpful rules that bear repeating:

 Never store a damp wig, make sure your wig is tangle-free, and never store your wigs in heat or direct sunlight. If storing on wig stands/heads, make sure they are protected from dust, pets, and children. 

Until next time, think wigs for fall, the holidays, and parties,

Vickie Lynn