How to Care for Your Hair Accessories: A Professional’s Guide

High-quality hair accessories deserve a little TLC!

When cared for properly, the right clips, scrunchies, and brushes can last for years, performing better, staying cleaner, and remaining gentler on your hair. 

As hairdressers with decades of experience, we know that maintaining your accessories not only protects your investment but also protects the health of your hair.

Here’s how to clean and store each type of accessory to keep them in perfect condition.

Claw Clips

Claw clips made from premium materials such as cellulose acetate can last beautifully when looked after with the right routine.

How to Clean Claw Clips

• Regular cleaning:
  Wipe them with a soft, damp cloth to remove oils, hairspray, or product buildup.
• Deep cleaning:
  For a more thorough clean, soak the clip for a few minutes in lukewarm water with a drop of gentle shampoo. Use a soft toothbrush to clean between the teeth.
• Avoid heat and harsh chemicals:
  Do not soak in boiling water, use alcohol-based cleaners, or expose to direct heat. This can weaken springs or warp the acetate.

How to Store Claw Clips

• Keep them in a drawer or accessory box, separated to avoid scratches.
• Store them unclipped to reduce spring tension and maintain longevity.
• Avoid crushing them under heavy items, as this can weaken the hinges.

Scrunchies

Scrunchies are gentler on hair than traditional elastics, but they also need regular care to stay fresh, soft, and strong.

How to Clean Scrunchies

Cleaning depends on the fabric. Please always follow the care guidance as indicated when purchasing your scrunchie, or on the care label:

• Cotton, linen, jersey:
  Machine wash on a low temperature, gentle cycle in a mesh bag or hand wash with mild detergent.
• Silk or satin:
  Hand wash only in very cool water using a gentle detergent, then lay flat to dry.
  Silk is delicate - avoid wringing, twisting, or using heat.
• Velvet:
  Hand wash in very cool water and gently squeeze out excess water. Leave to air dry. 

How to Store Scrunchies

• Store in a clean, dry place, away from makeup or skincare products that can stain fabric.
• Keep silk scrunchies separate to avoid snagging on zips, jewellery, or rough-textured accessories.
• Use small fabric bags or divided drawers to keep them organised and easy to find.

Hair Pins

Hair pins are often the forgotten heroes of hairstyling, until one disappears into the void!

Caring for them properly keeps them sanitary, strong, and ready for perfect updos.

How to Clean Hair Pins

• Wipe with a damp cloth to remove product residue.
• If buildup persists, soak them in warm water with a drop of shampoo, then rinse and dry thoroughly. 

How to Store Hair Pins

• Keep them in a small box, tin, or compartmented organiser so they don’t scatter or bend.
• For professional-level order, store by size (mini, standard, long pins).
• Avoid keeping them loose at the bottom of bags as they can warp or scratch other items.

No-Crease Clips

These clips work best when kept clean enough not to transfer product back to your hair.

How to Clean No-Crease Clips

• Wipe the padded or metal surfaces with a damp cloth.
• For stubborn product residue, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush.
• Dry clips thoroughly to prevent rust or weakening of the springs. 

How to Store No-Crease Clips

• Store them flat or clipped onto a strip of fabric or a storage card.
• Keep away from heat to preserve the cushion pads.
• Avoid piling heavy items on top, as the tension mechanism can be bent out of shape.

Barrette Clips

Barrettes combine function with beauty, so keeping them pristine matters for both durability and appearance.

How to Clean Barrette Clips

• Wipe with a soft cloth to remove residue.
• For cellulose acetate barrettes, clean gently with a mild detergent solution. Avoid soaking metal mechanisms for long periods.
• Use a soft toothbrush to access intricate designs or textured areas.

How to Store Barrette Clips

• Store individually in a felt-lined drawer or pouch to prevent scratches.
• Keep metal fastenings dry to avoid tarnish.
• If the clip has decorative stones or embellishments, store away from hard items that could chip or crack them.

Boar Bristle Brushes

Boar bristle brushes are premium tools beloved by professionals. Keeping them clean ensures they distribute natural oils effectively and remain gentle on your hair.

How to Clean a Boar Bristle Brush

Quick clean (after each use):

• Remove hair from the bristles using a comb or your fingers.
• Shake out any dust or product.

Deep clean (every 1–2 weeks):

1. Fill a bowl with warm (not hot) water.
2. Add a small amount of gentle shampoo.
3. Dip only the bristles, not the wooden handle or cushion, into the water. Too much soaking can damage natural wood or loosen glue.
4. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub between the bristles.
5. Rinse carefully, keeping the handle as dry as possible.
6. Lay bristle-side down on a towel to air dry.

How to Store a Boar Bristle Brush

• Store in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
• Keep the brush bristle-side up or lying flat.
• Avoid storing it in sealed, humid environments such as bathrooms. Moisture can warp natural materials.
• Use a protective pouch when travelling to keep the bristles from being crushed.