How to Wash Scrunchies

Explore our adorable scrunchies, chic hair clips, and stylish barrettes today!

Scrunchies are more than just hair accessories - they're fashion statements that deserve proper care. We love how these fabric-covered elastics can instantly elevate a ponytail or add a pop of color to any hairstyle. But with regular wear, scrunchies can accumulate dirt, oils, and product buildup.

Keeping your scrunchies clean is essential for maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. Whether you have a collection of silk scrunchies for special occasions or cotton ones for everyday use, we've got you covered with easy washing techniques.

Let's dive into the best methods for washing scrunchies to keep them looking fresh and fabulous. From hand washing delicate fabrics to machine washing sturdier materials, we'll show you how to care for your favorite hair ties without compromising their shape or elasticity.

Key Takeaways

• Regular cleaning preserves scrunchie appearance and lifespan
• Gentle hand washing works best for delicate fabrics
• Air drying scrunchies helps maintain their shape and elasticity

Before You Begin

Properly washing scrunchies is essential for keeping them fresh and extending their lifespan. Let's dive into the prep work needed to ensure your hair accessories get a thorough clean.

Gather Your Supplies

First things first, we'll need to round up a few key items. Grab a small bowl or sink, some mild detergent or shampoo, and a clean towel. For delicate scrunchies, we recommend using a mesh laundry bag to protect them during washing. Don't forget a drying rack or a flat surface where your scrunchies can air dry.

Make sure you have warm water available – not too hot, as this can damage certain materials. If you're dealing with stubborn stains, a soft-bristled brush might come in handy. We also like to keep a gentle fabric softener on hand for extra-special care.

Identify Scrunchie Material

Before we start scrubbing, it's crucial to know what our scrunchies are made of. Fabric scrunchies, like cotton or velvet, can usually handle gentle hand-washing. Silk or satin scrunchies need extra TLC – we'll want to use cold water and a super mild detergent for these delicate darlings.

For scrunchies with embellishments, like sequins or beads, we'll need to be extra careful. These might require spot cleaning to avoid damaging the decorations. Elastic-based scrunchies can typically withstand regular washing, but we'll want to avoid wringing them out to maintain their stretch.

If you're unsure about the material, check the care label if there is one. When in doubt, always opt for the gentlest washing method to keep your scrunchies looking fab!

Hand Washing Technique

Properly washing scrunchies by hand ensures they stay clean and maintain their shape. Let's go through the steps to keep your favorite hair accessories fresh and fabulous.

Mix the Cleaning Solution

We love using a gentle soap for our scrunchies. Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent or shampoo with cool water in a clean sink or bowl. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage delicate fabrics. For silk or satin scrunchies, we opt for specialized silk detergents. Remember, a little soap goes a long way - we don't want our scrunchies swimming in suds!

Pro tip: Add a splash of white vinegar to the solution for extra freshness and to help remove any lingering odors.

Gentle Scrubbing Steps

Now comes the fun part! Dip each scrunchie into the soapy water and gently squeeze to let the solution penetrate the fabric. Use your fingers to softly massage any visible stains or dirt spots. For tougher marks, we like to use an old, soft-bristled toothbrush to work out the grime.

Be extra careful with embellished scrunchies - we don't want to snag any sequins or beads. Scrub in circular motions, paying attention to the elastic part where sweat and oils tend to accumulate. Don't twist or wring the scrunchies, as this can stretch out the elastic.

Rinsing and Removing Excess Water

Time to rinse away the suds! Hold each scrunchie under cool running water, gently squeezing to remove all soap residue. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear - we don't want any leftover detergent irritating our skin or leaving residue in our hair.

To remove excess water, we avoid wringing or twisting. Instead, press the scrunchie between clean towels or paper towels. This method helps maintain the scrunchie's shape and prevents damage to the elastic. For quicker drying, we sometimes roll the scrunchie in a clean, dry towel and gently press to absorb more moisture.

Machine Washing

Machine washing scrunchies is a convenient way to keep them fresh and clean. Let's explore how to protect your hair accessories and choose the right settings for optimal results.

Protecting Scrunchies in a Mesh Bag

We always recommend using a mesh laundry bag when tossing scrunchies in the washing machine. It's a game-changer! These little bags act like a protective shield, preventing our scrunchies from getting tangled or lost among other clothes.

Pop your scrunchies into the bag and zip it up tight. This simple step helps maintain their shape and elasticity. Plus, it keeps them from snagging on zippers or buttons from other items in the wash.

For extra protection, we like to separate scrunchies by color or material. This prevents any potential color bleeding or fabric damage.

Choosing the Right Washer Settings

When it comes to washer settings, gentle is the way to go for our beloved scrunchies. We always opt for a cold water cycle – it's kinder to the fabrics and helps preserve vibrant colors.

Select the delicate or hand wash cycle on your machine. These settings use slower spin speeds and less agitation, which is perfect for our delicate hair accessories.

Avoid using harsh detergents. A mild, liquid detergent works wonders. We use just a small amount to prevent residue buildup on our scrunchies.

Skip the fabric softener! It can leave a coating on scrunchies, making them less effective at holding our hair in place.

After washing, air-drying is best. Lay scrunchies flat or hang them to dry naturally. They'll be fresh, clean, and ready for our next hairstyle in no time!

Drying Scrunchies Properly

After washing our favorite hair accessories, it's crucial to dry them correctly to maintain their shape and extend their lifespan. Let's explore the best practices for drying scrunchies and what to steer clear of in the process.

Air-Drying Tips

We love letting our scrunchies air dry naturally - it's gentle and effective! Lay them flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. For faster drying, we can gently reshape them and flip them over halfway through.

Sunlight can be a scrunchie's bestie, but let's not overdo it. A bit of sunshine can freshen them up, but too much might fade those vibrant colors we adore. For delicate fabrics like silk or satin, it's best to dry them indoors away from direct sunlight.

Got a bunch of wet scrunchies? We can hang them on a clothesline with plastic hangers. Just be sure to space them out so air can circulate freely.

What to Avoid When Drying

Girls, let's chat about what not to do when drying our scrunchies. First up, the dryer is a big no-no! High heat can damage the elastic and fabric, leaving us with sad, misshapen hair ties.

Wringing or twisting our scrunchies is tempting but can stretch them out, so we need to avoid it. Instead, we gently press out excess water with a towel. We should also avoid using heat tools like hair dryers or straighteners, as they're way too harsh for our delicate accessories.

Lastly, don't stack wet scrunchies on top of each other. This can lead to a musty smell and even mold (ew!). Give each one its own space to dry thoroughly, and we'll keep our hair game strong and fresh!

Maintaining Scrunchie Elasticity

Keeping our scrunchies stretchy and bouncy is crucial for that perfect ponytail or messy bun. Let's explore some easy ways to maintain their elasticity and make them last longer.

Stretching Techniques

We love giving our scrunchies a little TLC to keep them in top shape. One simple trick is to gently stretch them when they're not in use. We can wrap them around a water bottle or hairspray can overnight. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the elastic from getting too tight.

Another fun tip is the "scrunchie workout." We grab our scrunchies and give them a few gentle stretches before putting them on. It's like a mini yoga session for our hair accessories! This quick routine keeps the elastic fibers flexible and prevents them from losing their spring.

Storing Scrunchies Correctly

Storage is key to keeping our scrunchies bouncy and ready for action. We avoid tossing them in a drawer where they might get tangled or crushed. Instead, we hang them on a cute hook or organize them in a pretty basket.

A cool hack we love is using shower curtain rings to hang our scrunchies. It keeps them separated and lets air circulate, which is great for maintaining their shape. For travel, we pop them into a small mesh bag. This prevents them from getting squished in our luggage and keeps them easy to find.

Remember, heat and moisture are not our scrunchies' friends. We store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps prevent the elastic from breaking down too quickly.

Spot Cleaning for Quick Fixes

We love our scrunchies, but sometimes they need a little TLC between full washes. Let's explore some quick fixes for those minor mishaps that don't require a complete cleaning session.

Addressing Small Stains

Got a tiny spot on your favorite scrunchie? No worries! We've got you covered. Grab a clean, damp cloth and gently dab the stained area. For tougher marks, mix a drop of mild soap with water and apply it to the spot. Carefully work the solution into the fabric using small, circular motions.

Be sure to avoid rubbing too hard, as this might damage delicate materials. For oil-based stains, a pinch of baking soda can work wonders. Just sprinkle it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then brush it off gently.

Drying After Spot Cleaning

After spot cleaning, we need to make sure our scrunchies dry properly. Start by gently squeezing out excess water with a clean, dry towel. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can misshape your scrunchie.

For quick drying, lay the scrunchie flat on a fresh towel in a well-ventilated area. Flip it over occasionally to ensure even drying. If you're in a hurry, use a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting, keeping it about 6 inches away from the fabric. Remember, heat can damage elastic, so air drying is always best when time allows.

Once dry, give your scrunchie a little fluff and it's ready to rock!

Reviving Old Scrunchies

Let's breathe new life into those beloved scrunchies that have seen better days. We've got some nifty tricks up our sleeves to refresh faded colors and perk up stretched-out elastics.

Refreshing Faded Colors

Got scrunchies looking a bit dull? No worries! We can easily revive those faded hues. First, mix a small amount of fabric dye with warm water in a bowl. Submerge your scrunchie and let it soak for about 30 minutes.

Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. For a quick fix, try a fabric marker in a matching shade. Gently color over the faded areas for an instant pop.

Don't forget to protect your hands with gloves during the dyeing process. Hang your freshly colored scrunchies to air dry, and voila! They'll be ready to rock in no time.

Rejuvenating Stretched Out Scrunchies

Is your favorite scrunchie feeling a bit loose? We've got you covered! Start by giving it a good wash to remove any product buildup. Then, soak it in hot water for 5-10 minutes to help the fabric and elastic fibers relax.

Gently squeeze out excess water and wrap the scrunchie around a small object, like a bottle or can. Leave it there overnight to regain its shape. For extra oomph, try sewing in a new elastic band.

Cut a small opening in the scrunchie, remove the old elastic, and replace it with a fresh one. Stitch it back up, and you're good to go! Your scrunchie will be back to its bouncy self in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

We've got the answers to your burning scrunchie care questions. From washing methods to drying techniques, we'll cover all the essentials to keep your favorite hair accessories looking fresh and fabulous.

What's the best way to wash scrunchies without ruining them?

The gentlest method is hand-washing. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild detergent. Swish your scrunchies around for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. This approach helps preserve the elastic and fabric.

Is it safe to throw my scrunchies in with my regular laundry?

It's not ideal, but it can work in a pinch. Pop them in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from snagging. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and skip the dryer. Air-drying is always best for scrunchies.

Tips for hand-washing scrunchies, anyone?

We love using a gentle shampoo or baby soap for hand-washing. It's perfect for removing hair product buildup and odors. Soak your scrunchies for about 15 minutes, then gently squeeze to remove excess water.

Help! How do I dry scrunchies and keep their shape?

Lay your scrunchies flat on a clean towel. Gently reshape them and let them air dry completely. Avoid hanging them, as this can stretch out the elastic. For faster drying, roll them in a clean towel to absorb excess moisture first.

Can silk and velvet scrunchies survive the wash cycle?

These delicate fabrics need extra TLC. We recommend only hand-washing silk and velvet scrunchies. Use a specialized silk detergent for silk scrunchies. For velvet, a gentle soap and cool water work best. Never wring or twist these fabrics.

Got a smelly scrunchie situation - how do I freshen it up?

A quick soak in a mixture of cool water and white vinegar can work wonders. Use a 1:4 ratio of vinegar to water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and air dry. This natural method eliminates odors without harsh chemicals.