How to Care for Your Hair Scrunchies: Tips to Keep Them Bouncy

Scrunchies are more than just a hair accessory—they’re a style statement. Whether you’re rocking a messy bun or a high ponytail, a bouncy, fluffy scrunchie can elevate your look instantly. But over time, scrunchies can lose their shape, get tangled with hair, or become limp from product buildup. Proper scrunchies care is essential to keep them looking fresh and functioning well.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps for hair scrunchie maintenance, from washing to storage. With a little attention, your favorite scrunchies—like the ones you find in the HAIR ACCESSORIES category—can stay bouncy and beautiful for months.

Why Scrunchies Lose Their Fluff

Scrunchies are typically made from fabric wrapped around an elastic band. The fluffy ones, like velvet or knit scrunchies, can flatten due to compression, moisture, or product residue. Hair oils, dry shampoo, and styling products can build up on the fabric, making it stiff and less bouncy. Additionally, frequent stretching and pulling can weaken the elastic, causing the scrunchie to lose its shape.

Understanding these factors helps you adopt a care routine that addresses each issue. By cleaning them gently and storing them properly, you can extend the life of your scrunchies significantly.

How to Wash Your Scrunchies (Without Ruining Them)

Hand washing is the safest method for most scrunchies. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a small drop of mild shampoo or gentle detergent. Submerge the scrunchies and gently squeeze them—avoid twisting or scrubbing harshly, as that can damage the fabric or elastic. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is gone.

For scrunchies with delicate embellishments like beads or sequins, extra care is needed. Avoid soaking them for too long, and never use bleach or fabric softener, which can break down elastic fibers. If you must machine wash, place them in a mesh laundry bag and use a delicate cycle with cold water.

• Always check the care label if available. Some scrunchies, like those with metallic threads, may require spot cleaning only.

Drying: The Key to Keeping Scrunchies Fluffy

After washing, gently press out excess water with a clean towel—never wring or twist the scrunchie. Lay it flat on a dry towel or a drying rack away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Heat can shrink the fabric or damage the elastic, so avoid using a hair dryer or radiator.

To restore fluffiness, once the scrunchie is almost dry, you can gently fluff it with your fingers or give it a light shake. For knit or velvet scrunchies, you can also use a soft brush to lift the fibers. Patience is key: letting them air dry completely ensures they retain their shape.

Storage Tips to Prevent Flattening

How you store your scrunchies matters. Piling them in a drawer or tossing them in a bag can cause them to lose their shape. Instead, consider hanging them on a small hook or a dedicated scrunchie organizer. You can also loop them loosely over a carabiner or a ribbon—just avoid stretching them too wide.

For velvet or satin scrunchies, store them separately from items with zippers or hooks that could snag the fabric. A small pouch or a compartment in your makeup bag works well. Keeping them in a cool, dry place also prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mildew or odor.

• If you have multiple scrunchies, rotate them regularly to avoid overusing one and wearing out its elastic.

When to Retire a Scrunchie

Even with the best care, scrunchies have a lifespan. Signs it’s time to replace them include: the elastic is stretched out and no longer holds hair securely, the fabric is frayed or torn, or the scrunchie has lost its fluff despite cleaning. Keeping a few fresh ones on hand ensures you always have a bouncy option.

Brandy Melville USA offers a variety of scrunchies and other hair accessories to refresh your collection. Pair a new scrunchie with a classic top like the Zelly Long Sleeve Top or the Robyn Top for an effortless everyday look.

Caring for your hair scrunchies doesn’t have to be complicated. With gentle washing, proper drying, and smart storage, you can keep your scrunchies fluffy and bouncy for a long time. Remember to check for wear and tear, and don’t hesitate to treat yourself to new ones when needed. A little maintenance goes a long way in hair accessory care.