How to Get Smell Out of a Wig?

Have you ever bought a wig and it smells? Or do you want to keep your wig smelling fresh even after wearing it for a while?

We've got some tricks that can help get rid of the smell.

Smell can sometimes be caused by the chemicals used in the hair factory or packaging.  While a foul smell doesn't mean the hair is bad, getting rid of it helps you enjoy your wig to the fullest.

After all, no one wants to constantly deal with the smell of chemicals mixed with hairspray. (At Hermosa Hair, we focus on delivering the very best hair to our customers, just saying ☺️).

In some other cases, odors can be from long wear, lack of care, the environment, or even because of your negligence (oops 😁). Not to worry, though, we've found different ways to get rid of the smell of a wig, whether it's caused by the factory or other factors.

So, come along as we check them out in this post and keep your wig smelling fresh.

9 Ways to Get the Smell Out of a Wig

1. Air the Wig Out

You'll be surprised at what air-drying your wig can do. At times, what your hair unit needs is to be placed in a ventilated area (not under the sun) to get air.

We wouldn't advise washing it first. Simply bring out the wig from the package and place it on a hanger or clean surface, and leave it there for some hours. Make sure the space is well ventilated and isn't clustered together. 

Air-drying your hair is very important for removing odor. It is also important after washing. If your wig is still wet when you pack it, odors can start to form. So, whenever you wash your wig, make sure the wig dries properly in a cool place before packing it.

2. Use Apple Cider Vinegar

A natural neutralizer that works in getting bad smells out of wigs is apple cider vinegar.

This is not only perfect for removing the chemical smell after purchasing a wig (whether it's a human hair wig or a synthetic wig), but it is also good for removing the musty smell from a wig if you haven't worn it for a long time. It is effective in dissolving the dirt and sebum from your wig. And it won't cause harm to it (though it might lighten it a little).

• All you have to do is add some teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a bowl of water, then swish.
• Next, place your wig into the mixture for an hour to get rid of the smell.
• You can remove it and rinse with cool water once an hour is up.
• Then, use a conditioner to wash off the smell of the apple cider vinegar, and air-dry.

3. Baking Soda (Synthetic Wig Options)

Ever thought baking soda was only good for baking and cooking? Well, you're absolutely wrong. Sodium bicarbonate is actually a good cleaning agent. That's because it can absorb all kinds of odors from your wig and make it fresh again.

• Simply add two to three spoonfuls of baking soda into a bowl and dilute it with water.
• Next, apply it all over your wig (only your synthetic wigs) and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Wash it off afterwards, but be sure to remove every baking soda residue.
• Another way that works is to dip your wig in water that contains baking soda and let it sit for 20 minutes.

4. Wash Your Wig

Sometimes, what's necessary is deep cleaning your wig. This is because wigs need regular cleaning, just like our natural hair, to smell good and look good.

Without regular washing, odors can build up over time. We will advise that you wash your wig regularly if you wear it often to keep it fresh.

• To wash, get a sulfate-free shampoo and add an adequate amount to a bowl with lukewarm water.
• Now, place the wig inside the mixture and gently move the wig around. Avoid scrubbing and wringing the wig. Just swirl, then remove it after a while to rinse it.
• After washing with shampoo, you can soak it in a water and conditioner mixture, too, just like you did with your shampoo.
• Now, leave it for a few hours before removing it and rinsing it with water.

5. Make Use of Dry Shampoos In-Between Washes

Another product we'll recommend is a dry shampoo. Dry shampoos can actually cleanse your hair between washes. It can absorb the excess oil in your wig and remove odors.

All you have to do is divide your wig into sections, then shake the product and spray it on the roots.

But do not replace using the product with washing your wig. Plus, frequent use can lead to a buildup.

Now, when you want to use it, check for areas that are oily and apply the product to those areas. Let it sit for 30 seconds or more before gently massaging the product into the hair with your fingers.

6. Dry Sheet

This method is for our girls with synthetic wigs who need a quick fix. If you are in a hurry, you can use an absorbent dryer sheet to remove the smell and freshen up your wig.

Simply turn your wig inside out to reveal the cap, then gently pat it down with the dryer sheet to remove the foul odors.

Next, turn it again to show the strands, then lightly pat the hair with the dryer sheet. Make sure you do not resort to using just this method. It's very important that you wash your wig after wearing it several times.

7. Store Your Wig Properly

Do you know that how you store your wig properly is as important as the washing and drying aspect? Of course, it is. This is because if you store it incorrectly, it might end up having an unpleasant smell. So, make sure that after you've worn it or washed it, let it air out, then store it properly.

You can get a storage box or simply place it on a mannequin head. Also, do not leave it in a heated environment.

8. Deodorizing Sprays? No, Wig Refreshers Instead

We've seen some people recommend that you use deodorizing Sprays to get foul smells out of wigs. However, we wouldn't recommend that. Instead, use a wig refresher.

These aren't fabric refreshers or sprays used for materials; they are designed for wigs. And are safe for both human hair and synthetic wigs. Just divide your hair into sections, then apply it to the root of your wig. But make sure to shake the product well before applying. Ta-da! Your wig will be instantly refreshed.

9. Softener

This is the most popular and effective method many people prefer, it can not only remove the bad smell of a wig but also make your wig super silky.

Just add a half cup of softener into the hot water and mix it. Then soak your wig in the mixture. Let it sit for several hours before rinsing out.

What Can You Do to Make Your Wig  Smell Good

Here are a few effective ways to make your wig smell good after removing foul smells.

- Use Scented Hair Products

Want to leave a good smell? Use products that smell divine. Scented shampoos, conditioners, and styling products leave traces behind on your wig. If you go for these products, they will  not only nourish your wig but also make it smell wonderful.

- Do Not Store Your Wig When Wet

Besides the awful smell, do you know that your wig will have mold if you store it before drying it properly? To avoid that from happening, dry it in a cool place, then store it properly. It will also help your wig last longer.

- Clean Your Natural Hair

Throughout this post, we've mentioned that cleaning your wig is important. However, it is also important that you clean your natural hair before putting on your hair unit. This is not just to keep your hair fresh, but also to avoid transferring an unpleasant smell to your wig. So, as much as you care for your hair unit, be sure to care for your hair. Plus, your natural hair should also be a priority.

- Clean Your Bedsheets and Pillow Cases

If you sleep with your wig on, ensure your pillow cases and bedsheets are clean. This is simply to avoid transferring an unpleasant smell to your wig. However, if your wig is not installed with wig glue, we'll advise that you remove it and store it in a cool place, then protect your natural hair by wearing a silk or satin bonnet to bed. It’s a safe way to protect your wig and your natural hair. That’s a win-win situation if you ask us.

- Always Have a Clean Hair Brush

Take out time to clean your brush after several uses. You can soak it in lukewarm water and shampoo for a few minutes before rinsing. And make sure you do not leave hair strands on it.

- Use Scented Hair Products, Not Perfumes

Has it ever crossed your mind to spray your body perfume directly on your wig? Kindly resist the urge because it is not safe for your hair. What you can use instead is a hair mist or a wig refresher. But if you must, though, make sure to apply it to the wig cap from a safe distance.

Conclusion

Now you can keep your wig fresh and free of odors with the tips we've listed above. Luckily, these are easy steps you can incorporate into your routine or even accomplish within a few hours. So, go ahead and use any of the methods in this post and enjoy a clean, nice-smelling wig.