Clip-in hair extensions can transform your look instantly, but proper care is key to keeping them soft, silky and long-lasting. Unlike natural hair, clip-ins don’t receive natural oils from your scalp, so washing them correctly is essential to maintain their quality and preserve dryness or tangling.
At MHE, we always recommend washing clip-in extensions in a sink, never while attached to your head or in the shower. This prevents unnecessary tangling, damage and exposure to water pressure that can weaken the wefts.
Follow this guide to clean your clip-in extensions the right way and extend their lifespan.
How often should you wash clip-in extensions?
Unlike natural hair, clip-in extensions don’t need frequent washing. Washing too often can dry them out and shorten their lifespace. Here’s a general guideline we recommend:
- Wash after every 4-6 wears or when you notice product buildup.
- If you use a lot of styling products, you may need to wash them a little sooner.
- If your clip-ins start to feel dry, but aren’t dirty, a light leave-in conditioner can refresh them without the need for a full wash.
What you need before washing clip-in extensions
To get the best results, gather the following before starting your wash:
- Sulfate free shampoo which prevents stripping moisture from the hair.
- Silicone-free conditioner which hydrates and softens extensions.
- Wide-tooth comb or extension brush to help gently detangle.
- Lukewarm water. Avoid overly hot water as this can weaken the hair fibres.
- Microfibre towel or clean cloth to help absorb moisture without causing frizzy extensions.
- A sink: always wash your extensions in a sink rather than on your head in the shower.
MHE Tip: Avoid shampoos with sulfates or alcohol as these can strip away moisture and leave extensions dry and brittle.
Step-by-step guide to washing your clip in hair extensions
Step 1: Brush your extensions before washing
Gently detangle your extensions using a wide-tooth comb or soft brush, starting from the ends and work your way up to prevent breakage. Never brush extensions when wet as they are more fragile and prone to snapping.
Step 2: Fill a sink with lukewarm water
Use lukewarm water as hot water can damage the hair fibers. Submerge the clip in extensions gently into the water without twisting or rubbing them.
Step 3: Apply shampoo & gently cleanse
Pour a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo into your hands and gently lather it into the extensions. Work from the top of the weft downward, avoiding scrubbing or circular motions that might cause tangling. Make sure you never apply shampoo directly to the clips as this can weaken the attachment over time.
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly
After a good wash, hold the extensions under running water and allow the shampoo to rinse out completely. Avoid squeezing or wringing out the extensions and instead gently press out excess water.
Step 5: Apply condition & let it sit
Apply a hydrating, silicon-free conditioner, focusing on the mid length and ends of the extensions. Avoid the clip area again as too much moisture can loosen the attachment. We recommend letting the conditioner sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
MHE Tip: If your extensions feel extra dry, use a deep conditioning treatment once a month to restore moisture.
Tip for drying clip-in hair extensions
Here are some MHE tips for drying your clip-in extensions.
- Pat dry gently with a microfibre towel and avoid rubbing, which can cause frizz.
- Lay them flat on a clean towel as this prevents stretching and maintains the hairs natural shape.
- Air-dry whenever possible. Using a blog dryer can cause frizzy hair and potential heat damage.
- If using heat, apply a heat protectant and keep the setting low.
MHE Tip: Handing clip-ins on an extension hanger while drying helps maintain their shape and prevents creasing.
Do’s and Don’ts of Washing Clip-In Extensions
Washing your clip-in extensions correctly ensures they stay soft, smooth and long-lasting. By following this guide, you can keep your MHE extensions clean, healthy and free from tangles.
