Synthetic wigs are generally cheaper and easier to maintain than human hair wigs. According to Wigs.com, "the monofilament fiber hair used to make synthetic wigs has "memory," meaning it maintains its wave or curl, texture and volume, with minimal upkeep." Because of this, synthetic wigs don't last as long as human hair wigs and aren't designed to withstand color treatments and excessive styling and heating. Cleaning a synthetic wig every 12 to 25 wearings will protect its delicate synthetic fibers. Use formulated synthetic wig products to ensure that the wig will have longevity and maintain a lustrous appearance.
Fill a basin with cool tap water. Add 1 tsp. of baking soda. Pour a few capfuls of synthetic wig formulated shampoo into the basin, swishing around water, baking soda and shampoo until mixture is soft and sudsy.
Gently brush out kinks and tangles with a wire wig brush. Free all knots from the synthetic hair fibers with a hair pick before soaking the wig in shampoo. Refrain from using a non-wig brush, as its bristles can damage synthetic fibers.
Place the wig into the basin, swishing it around until saturated for one full minute. Set the wig aside on a dry towel. Dampen your fingers in the solution and rub your thumb gently over the front of the wig cap until all dirt and grime dissolves.
Insert the wig back into the basin. Allow the wig to soak for 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinse the wig under cool running tap water after soaking. Squeeze out excess water in the sink, making sure to squeeze out all areas – including the wig cap. Avoid wringing and twisting the synthetic hair strands to prevent damage.
Place the wig on a wig head stand to hold its shape, or simply lay the wig out on a dry towel.
Spray the wig with a synthetic wig-formulated conditioner, covering the entire wig from the top of the cap to the hair strand ends. Allow the wig to completely air dry for 30 to 40 minutes on a wig head stand or dry towel.