Hair accessories contain different materials, adhesives and moving parts, so one cleaning method does not suit everything. Water that is harmless to a plain fabric scrunchie may damage a metal spring, leather surface or glued rhinestone setting. Start with the product’s care instructions, then use the least aggressive method needed.
Quick care guide by material
| Material | Basic care | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Metal | Wipe with a soft dry cloth | Prolonged moisture and abrasive cleaners |
| Velvet | Protect the pile and remove lint gently | Crushing, rubbing and soaking |
| Satin | Spot clean only when appropriate for the fiber | Snags, high heat and harsh chemicals |
| Leather | Keep dry and wipe gently | Soaking, heat and untested cleaners |
| Cellulose acetate | Use a soft cloth and moderate storage temperature | High heat, drops and strong solvents |
| Pearls and rhinestones | Handle by the base and store separately | Pulling embellishments and chemical sprays |
General rules before cleaning
- Check the listed material and any care instructions.
- Identify metal hinges, elastic, glue, leather and embellishments before adding water.
- Test any cleaning method on a small hidden area.
- Use a soft cloth and light pressure first.
- Allow the accessory to dry fully before storage.
- Do not use bleach, acetone, perfume or strong household cleaners.
Metal barrettes and headbands
Metal can collect hair product, skin oils and moisture. Wipe the surface and clasp with a soft dry cloth after wear. If a slightly damp cloth is permitted, dry the accessory immediately and keep moisture away from hinges and springs.
Open and close barrettes using the clasp mechanism rather than pulling the decorative top. Store metal pieces so they do not scratch pearl, acetate or fabric accessories.
Hair claw clips
Hair claws depend on the spring and hinge. Remove trapped hair gently rather than pulling it through the mechanism. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth and keep the spring dry.
Do not force a small claw around too much hair. Repeatedly leaving the clip partly open places pressure on the hinge. Store claws where their teeth cannot be crushed by heavier objects.
Velvet accessories
Velvet has a raised pile that can flatten when crushed or rubbed. Use a soft lint roller or very gentle brush suitable for the fabric. Follow the product instructions before using moisture because the frame, glue or padding may not be washable.
Store velvet headbands and bows with room around them. Avoid stacking items on padded bands or folding bow tails sharply.
Browse velvet hair accessories
Satin bows and headbands
Satin is a weave and can be made from different fibers, so care depends on the actual fabric. Keep the smooth surface away from sharp jewelry, rough bag interiors and hook-and-loop fasteners.
For bows, handle the clip or elastic rather than pulling the loops and tails. Store the bow flat or hanging to protect its shape. Avoid high heat unless the care instructions specifically allow it.
Leather barrettes and headbands
Leather should be kept away from prolonged moisture and direct heat. Wipe the surface gently with a dry cloth after wear. Do not apply a conditioner or cleaner unless it is suitable for the specific leather and finish.
Store leather pieces flat or in their natural shape. Avoid placing them against damp fabric or in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Cellulose acetate clips and forks
Cellulose acetate provides color and depth but should be protected from drops and high temperatures. Wipe it with a soft cloth and store it away from heaters, hot cars and direct heat.
Separate acetate from harder metal accessories to reduce scratching. Do not use solvents unless the manufacturer specifically confirms they are safe.
Pearls, rhinestones and glued embellishments
Decorative settings require careful handling. Open a headband, barrette or claw using its frame or mechanism rather than pressing on the stones. Apply hairspray, perfume and styling products before placing the accessory whenever possible.
Store embellished pieces in separate compartments or soft pouches. If a stone becomes loose, stop wearing the piece until it can be repaired; continued movement can enlarge the damaged setting.
Explore pearl and rhinestone accessories
Scrunchies and fabric hair ties
Some plain fabric scrunchies may be washable, while embellished designs, velvet fabrics and pieces with unknown elastic construction may require spot cleaning. Follow the individual product instructions.
Do not overstretch the elastic during washing or wear. Allow the scrunchie to dry fully before storing it in a closed container.
Browse scrunchies and hair ties
Storage that prevents damage
- Use a divided drawer or shallow organizer.
- Store claws with space around the teeth.
- Keep bows and padded headbands from being crushed.
- Separate metal from pearls, rhinestones and acetate.
- Keep leather and fabric pieces dry.
- Do not leave accessories loose at the bottom of a handbag.
Travel storage
Use a structured pouch or small divided case rather than a soft bag where claws and bows can be compressed. Close barrettes, protect pointed hair forks and keep embellished pieces wrapped separately.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash every fabric headband?
No. The fabric may surround a metal frame, padding or adhesive that should not be soaked. Follow the product-specific instructions.
How do I remove hairspray from a clip?
Start with a soft dry cloth. If additional cleaning is needed, confirm which method is safe for the material and keep moisture away from moving parts.
Why do hair claws break?
Drops, crushed teeth, overstretched springs and using a clip that is too small for the hair are common causes.
How should pearl accessories be stored?
Keep them dry and separated in a soft pouch or divided compartment so they do not rub against metal or sharp objects.