A Step-By-Step Guide On How To Wash Dreadlocks

Based on my experiences with some new clients, I decided to write a

step-by-step guide on how to wash dreadlocks.  Dread/locs are not to be washed in a hurry because this is how you miss sections and get buildup!

These are some of the things that you need to have before your start washing your dreads/locs:

• Time  –   Please set aside at least 2 hours to do this properly.  
• Shampoo  –  liquid is best.  A shampoo bar works as well.  Avoid using the soap you use for bathing as it leaves a waxy feel and dull look to the hair.
• Conditioner  –  If you use a cream conditioner, you have to put a small amount, rub it out to a watery consistency before applying on the hair.  Rinse thoroughly.  Check for areas that may hold the cream and rinse again.   
• Large towel
• Hair Clips
• Clean Water

Directions:

1. Look closely at your dreads/locs, noting the areas that have buildup.  This usually occurs at the             point where they were last tightened.  There is a gap here that oils like to hold lint or dirt.  Remove       any lint or debris that may be attached to the hair.
2. Soak your dreads/locs with water making sure to rub the area where it was last tightened and any       other areas that may have buildup on the length of the hair.  Soaking is necessary to remove surface      dirt and to soften the hair for the shampoo.
3. Put a small amount of shampoo in the palm of your hand and rub them together.  Apply to the               dreads/locs.  Rub another small amount of shampoo in your hand.  Use it to rub the dirt that has           accumulated at the place it was last tightened.  
4. Use the pads of your fingers to rub the shampoo all over your scalp.   If the hair does not sud, rinse        and do this step again.

• Repeat step 4, one or two times.  If the shampoo does not sud, get a clarifying shampoo.
• Wrap the hair in a towel.  Do not rub.  Squeeze water from hair until it feels mostly dry.
• Apply your oils or leave-in conditioner.
• Twist your hair and then dry thoroughly.