How to Clean Hair Clips and Accessories: Simple Care Tips for Long-Lasting Use

Quick Answer

To clean hair clips and accessories effectively, start by removing hair and debris, then soak them in warm soapy water, scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely. For metal clips, avoid prolonged soaking to prevent rust. Regular cleaning every few weeks keeps them hygienic and extends their lifespan.

Hair clips and accessories are everyday essentials, but they can quickly accumulate product buildup, oils, and dirt. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking great but also prevents scalp irritation and extends their usability. Whether you have basic snap clips or intricate decorative pieces, a simple cleaning routine can make a big difference.

In this guide, we'll walk you through a straightforward process to clean various types of hair accessories, from plastic clips to metal barrettes, and share tips on maintaining them. We'll also highlight some FHI Heat products that complement a well-cared-for hair accessory collection.

Why Cleaning Hair Accessories Matters

Hair products like gels, sprays, and oils can leave residue on your clips and accessories. Over time, this buildup can transfer back to your hair, making it look dull or greasy. Additionally, bacteria can thrive on dirty accessories, especially if you share them or have a sensitive scalp.

By incorporating a simple cleaning routine into your hair care regimen, you ensure that your accessories stay hygienic and function properly. Clean clips also glide into hair more smoothly, reducing the risk of snagging or breakage.

• Clean accessories every 2-4 weeks if used daily.
• Always dry accessories completely before storing to prevent mold and rust.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Start by sorting your accessories by material: plastic, metal, fabric, or embellished. This helps you choose the right cleaning method and avoid damage. For most items, a gentle soap and water solution works well.

Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap or shampoo. Submerge the accessories and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. For stubborn residue, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surfaces, paying attention to crevices where product tends to accumulate.

After scrubbing, rinse each accessory under running water to remove all soap. For metal clips, avoid soaking for too long and dry them immediately to prevent water spots. For fabric-covered or embellished items, spot clean with a damp cloth instead of submerging.

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid scratching finishes.
• For intricate designs, use a cotton swab dipped in soapy water to reach tight spots.

Drying and Storing Your Accessories

Proper drying is crucial to prevent rust and deterioration. After rinsing, lay the accessories on a clean towel and pat them dry. For items with metal parts, use a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Allow them to air dry completely on a towel or drying rack before storing.

Store your accessories in a dry, cool place, preferably in a container with compartments to prevent scratching and tangling. Keeping them organized not only extends their life but also makes it easier to find what you need.

• Never store wet accessories in a closed container.
• For delicate pieces, consider using a soft pouch or lined box.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

1. Sort and Prepare: Separate accessories by material. Remove any hair strands or debris. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Checkpoint: Ensure you have all items ready and a soft brush for scrubbing.
2. Soak and Scrub: Submerge plastic and metal accessories for 5-10 minutes. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away buildup. For fabric or embellished items, spot clean with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking metal clips too long to prevent rust.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse each accessory under running water to remove soap residue. Pay extra attention to crevices. Check for any remaining soap; residue can irritate your scalp.
4. Dry Completely: Pat dry with a towel, then let air dry fully on a towel or rack. For metal parts, use a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots. Never store wet accessories; moisture can cause mold and rust.
5. Store Properly: Once completely dry, store in a dry, cool place. Use a compartmentalized container to avoid scratching and tangling. Regular cleaning and proper storage extend the life of your accessories.

Recommended Products for Hair Care

• UNbrush Detangling Hair Brush Glitter - Ruby: UNbrush® gently yet thoroughly extracts knots and tangles from even the most unruly hair, painlessly and effortlessly. Featuring the perfect blend of 105 dual length bristles, combined with an ultralight high performance handle, UNbrush® helps reduce styling time and prevents hair from catching. Great for wet or dry hair. Using a high-quality detangling brush like the UNbrush reduces stress on your hair, which means less breakage and fewer tangles that can snag on accessories.
• Platform Signature Pro Styler - 1 3/4": The Platform Signature 1.75” Tourmaline Ceramic Professional Styling Iron is perfect for all hair types. With three layers of baked ceramic plates infused with tourmaline for even heat distribution, this tool allows you to create multiple styles from pin-straight to beachy waves. When you style with quality tools, you use less product and heat, which means your accessories stay cleaner longer and your hair remains healthier.

Cleaning your hair clips and accessories doesn't have to be a chore. With a simple routine and the right tools, you can keep them looking new and functioning well for years. Remember to clean regularly, dry thoroughly, and store them properly. For more hair care tips and quality products, explore FHI Heat's collection.