Do you have fresh new braids? If you’ve ever woken up with messy, tangled hair after a night’s sleep, you know that keeping your braids protected overnight means everything.
With some simple tips and tricks for how to sleep with braids, you can keep them neat, tight, and pillow-proof from the very first night.
This comprehensive guide will teach you the best techniques to keep braids straight overnight. You’ll learn how to prep your hair before bed, choose protective sleeping accessories, discover the best sleeping positions, and wrap your braids correctly.
Whether you have cornrows, box braids, French braids, or Bohemian braids, this guide will help you care for your braids and prevent frizz and tangling while sleeping. Let’s explore the most effective practices for keeping braids beautiful overnight.
WHAT’S IN THIS GUIDE
Sleeping With a Satin or Silk Pillowcase
One of the easiest things you can start doing tonight for your braids is to swap out your regular linen pillowcase for one made of satin or silk. This inexpensive switch makes a world of difference in keeping your braids nourished, tangle-free, and frizz-free as you sleep.
Unlike rough cotton cases that can snag and cause damage, silk and satin’s gentle and slippery texture glides over your braids. This reduced friction also prevents tangles and hair breakage. As a result, your braids will be less likely to break, knot, or frizz the following day.
By choosing real silk or quality satin fabric, you can treat your braids to serious overnight TLC. Less friction means less opportunity for your braids to rub up against material that causes hairs to loosen and pull out of formation.
Moisture retention is a major benefit of swapping out cotton pillowcases for silk or satin. These materials are less absorbent than cotton, helping to maintain the hair’s natural moisture levels and preventing dryness.
Silk and satin don’t absorb oils or hydrating hair products nearly as much as cotton fabric does as you sleep. This allows all the nutrients and moisture you seal into your braids before bedtime to stay put on each strand. Your hair will be nourished, conditioned, and protected overnight. Keeping braids supple and hydrated with the help of silk or satin pillowcases will also help prevent damage and breakage in the future.
By simply replacing your regular pillowcase with one made of satin or silk, you can quickly provide better overnight protection for your braided hair.
Wrapping Braids in a Satin or Silk Scarf
Wrapping braids in a satin or silk scarf is another recommended way to protect them while sleeping. Satin and silk are ideal materials for braid care due to their smooth, low-friction surfaces that minimize snagging, friction, and resulting frizz.
Before wrapping with a scarf, it is important to ensure your braids are completely dry to avoid breakage and tangles that can occur from sleeping on wet hair.
Then, gently secure your braids into a loose ponytail or bun to keep them neat and prevent tangling overnight.
Select a high-quality, soft satin or silk scarf large enough to fully enclose your braids. Drape the scarf over your head, making sure all braids are wrapped inside its folds.
There are a few popular techniques for securing the scarf, such as the triangle method tying together corners at your forehead, or the top bun method twisting braids into a top bun before wrapping. With either style, avoid tying too tight to prevent breakage. Tuck in any loose edges to create a smooth wrap.
Sleeping with braids properly wrapped provides multiple benefits. Wrapping braids in satin or silk preserves their appearance overnight. The smooth fabric minimizes friction, allowing braids to glide freely rather than snag against a pillowcase. This preserves their sleek shape and prevents frizz.
A wrap can help keep braids neatly separated rather than allowing them to tangle together. It also retains more moisture in the hair and prevents dryness, significantly reducing breakage.
Wearing a Satin or Silk Bonnet or Hair Cap
When sleeping with braids, using a satin or silk bonnet is an excellent way to maintain the health and appearance of your hairstyle. Both satin and silk bonnets have unique properties that benefit braided hair, so choose based on your specific needs.
Satin bonnets are less absorbent, leading to less moisture loss from hair. The smooth texture also reduces friction and damage to the hair shaft, minimizing tangles and frizz. Satin is an affordable, low-maintenance option that retains moisture well. The easy care, only needing gentle machine washing every week or two, is a plus.
In contrast, silk bonnets are extremely durable and offer stronger protection against external elements. Silk is also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with allergies. It excels at controlling frizz and flyaway hairs too. Silk also provides superior heat protection.
Silk bonnets are ideal for synthetic box braids since the smooth fibers won’t snag the hair. The material also prevents that telltale frizzy halo sometimes seen after removing bonnets.
With adjustable drawstrings, high-quality silk bonnets provide a secure fit for any volume or length of hair.
If you are deciding between wearing a bonnet or a scarf, consider your hairstyle and comfort preferences. The first step in protecting cornrow styles is to cover the hair with a silk scarf. Next, a bonnet will be used to hold the scarf in place and provide additional protection.
Scarves may be the better choice for braids like French or Dutch since bonnets can create neck tension. In these cases, wrap two silk scarves around the hair instead. Aside from that, unlike bonnets, scarves also keep braids flat, making your braided styles last longer. Scarves are more easy to adjust to fit your needs.
For maximum protection, we recommend using both a bonnet and a scarf. Together, they significantly minimize friction and breakage compared to using one alone. The combo also secures flyaways and prevents kinks, even if moving around at night. The scarf will keep the hairstyle neat and flat, and the bonnet keeps everything nicely covered and in place at night.
Tie Up Braids at Night With Hair Ties
The best hair ties for protecting braids while sleeping are satin or silk ties. Made of smooth, low-friction materials, these ties prevent tangles, knots, snags, and breakage as you sleep. Scrunchies and soft elastic ties are also good options since they are comfortable and gentle. Regular elastic ties should be avoided as they grip too tightly, causing damage.
Specially designed for braided hair, these braiding ties are wider and more secure than regular ties. They are better than regular ties because the wider size and smooth materials keep braids neatly in place without friction, tangling, or breakage. Popular options include satin ties, silk ties, ties with a center loop for extra security, or textured ties that grip braids.
When tying braids at night, it is important to tie them loosely in a ponytail or bun that doesn’t tug the hair. Tight knots strain braids, leading to breakage.
While a hair tie can quickly keep braids together for sleeping, additional protection is usually needed. We recommend using both a gentle tie and a satin scarf or bonnet to prevent tangling and frizz. For even more friction protection, sleep on a satin pillowcase and you’ll wake with neat, undamaged braids.
Choosing the Right Sleeping Position for a More Comfortable Night’s Sleep
Getting braids puts tension on your scalp and may leave your head feeling sore and sensitive, making it challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position those first few nights.
Avoid tying up the braids too soon, as this continues to put strain on your scalp. Wait a few days for the sensitivity to subside.
Focus instead on supporting the weight of the braids and minimizing friction to prevent frizz and tangles. Position a pillow under your neck and sleep on your back, keeping your braids unlocked and able to fall where they may without rubbing.
If back sleeping proves difficult, try resting on your side in a way that avoids pressure points on the more sensitive areas of your head. Position the braids so they fall comfortably without pulling.
Whenever possible, wear a bonnet or scarf at night to prevent friction on the braids.
You can gently support the base of your head with your hands if needed, but be mindful of hygiene. Massaging the scalp can also provide relief and help you find a more relaxed position.
With fresh braids, the goal is to minimize stress on the scalp by supporting their weight. Finding the proper sleeping position involves experimentation. Try using different pillow setups to prop up the braids comfortably. Also, test out various scarves or bonnets for protection. But avoid tying braids too tightly at night initially – let scalp sensitivity subside before securing them for sleep.
Refreshing Your Braids with Morning and Evening Routines
Maintaining braids requires daily routines focusing on moisture and gentle handling.
Morning Routine
Give yourself a head start every day and begin your day with a routine that keeps braids looking fresh and neat.
Start by revitalizing the scalp with a light spray of water, hydrating the roots, and reducing frizz. Follow this with a nourishing oil to further moisturize the scalp and hair, preventing dandruff and dryness.
Styling the edges is also crucial for a neat, polished look.
You can refresh the edges for a defined, frizz-free look by spraying and twisting them into curls.
For an even more sleek appearance, use edge control with a pintail comb and edge brush to smooth and style stray hairs.
After that, evenly apply hair mousse through the braids to maintain smoothness and definition. Attach clips to each braid to add weight to counter shrinkage and ensure braids retain their original length.
After styling, tie a scarf around your head for about 10 minutes to set the mousse and gel. This will keep all hair with sharp edges in place.
Finish the morning routine with a shine mist to make the braids look shiny and new.
Evening Routine
Maintaining healthy braids overnight calls for an evening care routine.
Right before bed, boost hydration by massaging just a small amount of oil into the scalp. This maintains moisture and prevents dandruff. After applying oils, gently massage the scalp to evenly distribute and stimulate circulation for hair health.
Be sure to use a leave-in conditioner specially formulated for braided hair regularly. This locks in moisture and prevents breakage.
Finish by sleeping with a scarf to prevent overnight frizzing and keep braids neat and tidy.
Throughout these routines, gently handle your braids without over-manipulating to maintain both appearance and hair integrity.
Go easy on hot tools that can damage braids as well. If heat is needed, first apply a protective spray as a shield.
Lastly, book periodic touch-ups with your stylist to keep your braids looking their freshest.
With this consistent care, braids stay beautiful through the night, from day one through take-down day.
How to Sleep With Box Braids
When you have box braids, protecting your hair while you sleep is key to maintaining their neat look. The friction from tossing and turning can cause frizz and loosen your braids. A bonnet or scarf specifically made for sleeping can make all the difference for your box braids.
Silk or satin bonnets are ideal as they do not catch and pull on braids like rougher fabrics can. Since box braids add volume, look for extra roomy or jumbo-sized bonnets to ensure all your braids fit inside comfortably without squeezing them too tight. Some bonnets come with adjustable features like ties or bands which allow you to wrap the bonnet snugly but not too tight. Other options like double-layered, reversible, or sleep cap-style bonnets also provide great hair protection.
Silk or satin scarves are great choices for scarves as they retain moisture in your hair while reducing friction. Satin is a more affordable alternative with similar smooth properties. Large square scarves can be folded and wrapped in different styles to accommodate your braids. Long rectangular scarves wrap around the head multiple times for a more secure hold throughout the night. Jersey materials are stretchy and soft for a comfortable feel. Microfiber scarves absorb excess moisture without drying out the hair.
When putting on a bonnet or scarf, gently gather the braids without pulling them tightly. Make sure the fit is snug but not tugging at the edges.
Alternatively, you can gently gather your box braids into a loose ponytail or bun at the top of your head. This can prevent them from getting tangled while you sleep.
Pair this with a silk or satin pillowcase for added benefits. In the morning, lightly reshape any braids that need it using your fingers, then style as desired. Being consistent with these overnight practices will lead to neat, long-lasting box braids.
How to Sleep With Cornrows and Knotless Braids
Sleeping comfortably with cornrows can be a challenge, but doing it right is essential for maintaining the hairstyle’s neatness and longevity.Â
First and foremost, it’s crucial to maintain the health of your scalp and the cornrows. Regularly use products like dry shampoo and hair oil to keep the scalp clean, free from itching and prevent the braids from becoming frizzy.
To apply the dry shampoo, dab it onto the scalp with a cotton ball and then gently clean it off with lukewarm water using another cotton ball. For the scalp oil, use a cotton ball as well, making sure not to drench the braids.
As a rule, dry shampoo should be used every two to three days, while the scalp oil is best applied every two days or whenever the scalp starts feeling itchy. If your braids feel dry or need moisture, don’t hesitate to use a LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) product.
When it’s time to sleep, protecting your cornrows is crucial. Avoid using a bonnet as it can cause strain on the neck and potentially irritate the skin, especially when the braids are tight. Bonnets can also lead to the braids becoming crinkly due to compression.
Instead, opt for a silk wrap or scarf or a similar head covering (like a durag), which can be found at almost any hair supply store.
Place the wrap on your head, allowing the braids to flow naturally down the back. This positioning is crucial to avoid putting pressure on the braids and scalp. Secure the ends of the wrap by tying them snugly under the neck, holding the braids in place without applying excessive pressure.
With the leftover fabric from the wrap or with another soft scarf, wrap the scarf around the braids and secure it with a hair tie to ensure all the braids are neatly contained and protected.
This method of wrapping and sleeping with your cornrows has several advantages. It maintains the integrity of the braids, keeping them straight and preventing them from becoming frizzy or crinkly.
It’s also more comfortable compared to sleeping with braids stuffed under a bonnet, an essential factor for a good night’s sleep and reducing potential scalp tension.
Additionally, doing it this way will make sure the knotless braids still look fresh in the morning without any dents or distortions.
It’s also important to remember to moisturize the hair beneath the braids to keep it healthy.
This method of caring for and sleeping with your cornrows is versatile and also suitable for various styles, like box braids.
How to Sleep With Bohemian and Goddess Braids
The best way to wrap Bohemian or Goddess braids at night would be loosely twisting and then forming the hair into buns since this is effective in preventing tangling and matting while sleeping. This approach also helps maintain the curl pattern, ensuring the braids look untouched when unraveled in the morning.
An essential part of this nighttime routine is using satin scarves or bonnets. The significance of satin lies in its ability to reduce friction against the hair. Satin also helps retain the hair’s natural oils, keeping the braids smooth and well-moisturized. This is particularly important for Bohemian and Goddess braids, as they often include synthetic hair that can easily become frizzy or dry.
To start, you’ll need two hair ties or scrunchies and a satin scarf or bonnet. Optionally, keep a leave-in conditioner spray or mousse handy for added care.
Begin by dividing your hair into two main sections. This is a crucial step to manage the volume of the braids effectively. Then, take each section and split it further into two parts. Now, gently twist these subsections. Keeping the twists loose is important; tight twists can strain your braids and affect the curls.
Once you have your twists, it’s time to create soft buns. Wrap these twisted sections around your head, akin to Princess Leia’s iconic hairstyle, and secure them with the hair ties. This method keeps your braids organized and helps maintain the curl pattern.
Next, cover your hair with a satin scarf or bonnet. A satin scarf is preferred. If you don’t have a satin scarf, any soft, breathable fabric will do, but satin is ideal for hair care.
In the morning, gently unravel the buns and twists. If you find any tangles, use your fingers to detangle them gently. This is where a leave-in conditioner spray or mousse can be beneficial. It helps in smoothing out the braids and refreshing the curls. Apply the product sparingly to avoid build-up.
Remember, the key to maintaining Bohemian or Goddess braids is gentle handling and protection from friction and tangling while you sleep. With this nightly routine, your braids should stay neat, tangle-free, and looking fresh for longer.
How to Sleep With French Braids
If you’re wondering whether you can sleep with French braids without getting messy, the answer is yes, but it depends on a few factors.Â
First, never go to bed with wet braids. Doing so can damage hair and cause frizz. Instead, gently pat braids dry after washing, using a microfiber towel. This is less harsh than rubbing with a regular towel.
It also helps to condition the hair regularly. Replenishing moisture keeps braids looking their best overnight.
When getting braids, find a middle ground between too tight and too loose. Braids that are too snug can strain hair and scalp. On the flip side, braids too loose may unravel.
Securing the braid ends is also crucial. Tie them off with a thin elastic or scrunchie to prevent flyaways. Just don’t use a big, textured hair tie since that can cause frizz.
For extra protection, wrap the tip of the braid onto itself and clip it in place before bedtime. This smooths flyaways and prevents the braids from unraveling during sleep.
Next, wrap your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet. The smooth fabric keeps braids neatly in place as you sleep. If you don’t have silk items, tie a large, soft square scarf securely on top of your head to keep the edges of your braids smooth.
When choosing a sleep position, opt for your back or side. This puts less tension on braids than sleeping face down. A satin pillowcase also reduces friction, minimizing hair breakage if you toss and turn.
When you follow the right approach, you will be able to have flawless French braids and sleep comfortably. The bonus of keeping your hair braided overnight is that it prevents your natural hair from tangling and breaking. In fact, some people purposefully sleep with French braids to get a wavy style when they wake up.
How to Wrap Braids at Night
If you want to wake up with beautiful, frizz-free braids every morning, properly wrapping them before bed is a must.
Learning how to wrap braids at night with scarves and bonnets is the number one trick for maintaining any style like box, knotless, twists, or Goddess braids while you sleep. Not only does wrapping braids protect the style itself, it prevents painful tugs, allows you to comfortably change positions, and leads to better sleep quality overall.
This section will walk you through various techniques for braid protection at night based on your hair’s length and thickness.
For short to medium braids, simply tie a scarf loosely around the roots, leaving the ends freely hanging. This protects roots while allowing a comfortable sleep since ends are loose. Use a soft, regular head scarf.
If the braids are extra long, cover both the roots and ends by layering two scarves. First, tie one at the roots as previously described. Then use a smooth, tight-weave locs scarf to tuck ends inside, wrapping it up and over the ends before tying. The specialty fabric prevents slipping.
You can also fully wrap braids by sectioning the hair in two, twisting each side lightly, crossing at the back, then wrapping them circularly around your head and securing them with a roomy bonnet. This keeps all braids up and off the neck.
Another wrapping option is to loosely pull braids atop your head into a top bun, taking care not to wrap them too tight. Fully cover the bun with a satin scarf, tucking in the ends. This protects the hair while preventing tension on the edges and strands from tying too snug.
If you want to add a slight curl and volume to your braids overnight, roll the ends of your braids with foam or satin rollers. First divide the braids into two halves. Secure each side loosely with a hair tie and start rolling on one side. It’s recommended not to roll the hair all the way up to the hair tie. After rolling one side, repeat the process on the other side. Tie a satin scarf, making sure to tuck in any visible rollers. Sleep on a satin pillowcase to prevent any rollers from popping out of the scarf. The curls will look beautiful!
For stretched, straight braids, crisscross halves after separating and tying each one. Bring both to the front and secure together. Wrap a large satin scarf back to front, tucking well. The smooth wrap keeps braids neat and straight.
You can also contain braids in a pocket tie bonnet or scarf bag for comfortable, loose-hanging hair. Or elegantly wrap braids up in a high bun with an extra long scarf like Erykah Badu.
These methods are quick and easy, and also work for sleeping comfortably with long braids or twists.
