Hair ties can get pretty gross over time. Since most are made of fabric, they tend to collect dirt, oil, and product buildup. All of that can transfer to your hair every time you use them, which can lead to a host of issues like dandruff, greasy hair, and more. And, let’s not talk about the musty smell they tend to give out. So, here’s a simple guide to wash them.

Credit: Envato Elements/ alexlucru1234

Materials You’ll Need

• A small bowl

• Mild detergent or baby shampoo

• Warm water

• A soft toothbrush (optional)

• A clean towel

• A clean towel for drying

How to Clean Hair Ties

Step 1: Sort Your Hair Ties

Separate your hair ties based on material. Fabric or elastic hair ties need a gentler cleaning method compared to plastic or silicone ones. 

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill a small bowl with warm water. Add a few drops of mild detergent or baby shampoo. Mix until the water is slightly soapy. Don’t use harsh cleaners as they’ll just weaken the material of your hair ties.

Step 3: Soak the Hair Ties

Place the hair ties in the bowl and let them soak for 10–15 minutes. If your hair ties are heavily soiled, after 10–15 minutes of them soaking, scrub them with a soft toothbrush. Focus more on the inner parts of the hair ties since this is where the maximum amount of dirt, oil, and product buildup will be.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

After soaking, drain the soapy water and rinse each hair tie under running water. Make sure to get all the soap out to avoid any residue sticking to your hair later.

Step 5: Dry Properly

Gently squeeze out excess water from the hair ties. Lay them flat on a clean towel and let them air dry. Putting them in a dryer might seem like a good idea but it the heat will just damage the elastic. Once completely dry, store your hair ties in a clean container or drawer. This prevents them from picking up dust or dirt again.

Note:

If you use scrunchies or hair ties with fabric coverings, check the care label. Some fabric types can be safely washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle. Air-dry them to avoid damage.

How often should you wash your hair ties?

At least every two to three weeks, especially if you use them frequently. This might seem like overkill but like we mentioned, hair ties can get super nasty and if you want to keep your hair healthy, you need to clean them regularly.

When should you replace your hair ties?

Hair ties won’t last forever. If your hair ties lose elasticity, start to fray, or develop a persistent odor despite cleaning, it’s time to replace them.

Can I put hair ties in the washing machine?

Yes, but only if they’re made of fabric and don’t have delicate embellishments or glued parts. Use a mesh laundry bag and wash on a gentle cycle. Always air-dry them to avoid damaging the elastic.

Can I clean hair ties with vinegar?

Yes, you can soak them in a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar for about 15 minutes to disinfect and remove odors. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly afterward.

Summary

There you go. Now you can keep your hair ties clean and fresh, which will help protect your hair and scalp from irritation or buildup. Make it a habit to clean them every few weeks—it’s quick, easy, and totally worth it!

If you're looking for durable, long-lasting hair ties, check out Burlybands. They’re designed to handle daily use while staying comfortable and secure. Try them today for a hassle-free hair experience!