Master the Art of Washing a Sew In Weave With Leave Out: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of constantly having to redo your sew in weave due to improper washing techniques? Look no further, because we have the ultimate guide on how to wash a sew in weave with leave out. From preserving the longevity of your extensions to keeping your natural hair healthy, we’ll provide you with all the necessary steps for a flawless and efficient wash day. Say goodbye to frizzy and tangled hair, and hello to a fresh and clean sew in every time. Let’s dive into the world of proper sew in weave care.

Understanding Sew In Weaves with Leave Out

Sew in weaves with leave out are a popular choice for women who want to add length and fullness to their hair without undergoing chemical treatments or waiting for their natural hair to grow out. This type of weave involves braiding a section of your natural hair and using needle and thread to sew wefts of extensions onto the braided base. The leave out refers to the section of your natural hair that is left out at the top, front, or sides to create a more natural-looking part. Sew in weaves with leave out can be styled in various ways, including curls, straightened, or updos. However, maintaining this hairstyle requires proper care and washing techniques.

Pre-Washing Preparations

Before washing your sew in weave with leave out, there are a few important preparations you should make. First, gather all necessary supplies such as shampoo, conditioner, wide-tooth comb, and a regular towel or microfiber towel. It’s also recommended to have a blow dryer and hooded dryer if available.

Next, begin by detangling your weave with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. This is crucial to prevent matting or tangling while washing. You can also use the comb to gently loosen any product buildup or debris from the weave.

If your sew in weave was installed by a stylist using thread or glue, it’s essential to avoid getting these areas wet during washing as it can cause slipping or damage. To prevent this from happening, you can wrap these portions in plastic wrap before washing.

The Washing Process

Now that you have prepared for washing your sew in weave with leave out let’s move on to the actual process itself.

Step 1: Wet Your Hair

Start by getting your weave wet using lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can cause damage to both your natural hair and extensions. This is because human hair and synthetic hair extensions are not heat resistant and can melt or lose their shape when exposed to high temperatures.

Step 2: Shampoo

Apply a small amount of shampoo on your hand and distribute it evenly throughout your hair and scalp. It’s important to only apply shampoo on the braided base and weave, avoiding getting it on your leave out. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips, ensuring not to tug on your braids or extensions. Rinse off the shampoo with lukewarm water.

Step 3: Condition

After shampooing, apply a generous amount of conditioner, starting at the mid-lengths to ends of your hair. It’s imperative to avoid applying conditioner onto the braided base or close to the roots as this can loosen the braids and cause slippage. Leave the conditioner on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly.

Step 4: Drying

Gently squeeze out excess water from your weave using a regular towel or microfiber towel. Never rub or wring out your weave as this can cause frizz and damage. If you have a hooded dryer available, you can use it on low heat to dry your hair partially. Otherwise, air-dry is also perfectly fine.

Step 5: Comb Out

Once your hair is completely dry, detangle it again using a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends towards the roots. This will help prevent any matting or tangles while styling.

Tips for Maintaining Your Sew In Weave with Leave Out

To ensure that your sew in weave with leave out stays looking fresh and beautiful for as long as possible, here are some helpful tips:

– Avoid getting moisturizing products such as oils and serums too close to the root area where your leave out is. This can cause the extensions to slide down or slip out of your braids.
– Use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase when sleeping to prevent friction and maintain moisture in your hair.
– Avoid using heavy oils, products that contain alcohol, and harsh chemicals on your weave, as it can deteriorate the quality and cause tangling.
– If you feel any tightness or discomfort from the braids, consult with your stylist and consider taking them out. Leaving braids in for an extended period can cause hair breakage and damage.

With proper care and washing techniques, sew in weaves with leave out can be a great way to achieve a natural-looking hairstyle that is long-lasting. It’s essential to be gentle when handling your weave, whether during washing or styling, to prevent any damage. Remember to also follow the tips mentioned above for maintaining your sew in weave with leave out. With these tips in mind, you can confidently rock this stylish hairstyle without worrying about damaging your natural hair or extensions.

Things to Consider Before Washing a Sew In Weave with Leave Out

Before jumping into the process of washing your sew in weave with leave out, it is important to consider a few factors to ensure that the process goes smoothly and your hair remains healthy. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Check Your Hair Type: Your hair type plays a crucial role in determining how often you should wash your sew in weave with leave out. For example, if you have oily hair, you may need to wash it more frequently compared to someone with dry hair.

2. The Condition of Your Scalp: If you have any scalp conditions such as dandruff or eczema, it is important to consult with a dermatologist before washing your sew in weave. They can recommend the right products and methods that won’t irritate your scalp.

3. The Products You Use: It is crucial to use quality products that are specifically designed for extensions and weaves. Make sure to avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals, sulfates, or alcohol as they can cause damage or dry out your scalp and leave out.

4. Consider the Weather: If it’s summer and you’re sweating a lot, you may need to wash your weave more frequently compared to winter when your scalp is dryer.

5. The Type of Hair Used: Different types of hair extensions require different levels of care. For example, synthetic weaves should be handled differently compared to human hair weaves when it comes to washing and maintaining them.

The Steps for Washing a Sew In Weave with Leave Out

Now that you’ve considered these factors let’s dive into the steps for properly washing your sew in weave with leave out:

Step 1: Detangle Your Hair
Before getting into the shower, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to gently remove any knots or tangles. This step is crucial as it helps prevent any further tangling or matting of your hair.

Step 2: Pre-Shampoo Treatment
Pre-shampoo treatments help to protect your scalp and leave out from harsh shampoo chemicals. Before getting into the shower, apply a small amount of oil, such as coconut or olive oil, to your scalp and leave out. This will create a protective barrier and prevent stripping your hair’s natural oils.

Step 3: Wet Your Extensions
Get into the shower and wet your sew in weave with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage your extensions.

Step 4: Shampoo Your Hair
Using a sulfate-free shampoo, gently massage your hair from root to tip. Be careful not to rub or tangle your extensions in the process.

Step 5: Rinse and Condition
Rinse the shampoo out of your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Then, apply conditioner from middle to end and leave it on for a few minutes. Rinse out with cool water, which helps close the cuticles of both your natural hair and extensions, leaving them shiny and smooth.

Step 6: Post-Wash Care
After washing, detangle again using a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush. Towel dry gently by blotting – do not rub – to avoid matting or frizziness.

Step 7: Air Dry
Avoid using direct heat on wet hair as it can cause damage to both your natural hair and extensions. Instead, allow your sew in weave with leave out to air dry naturally or use a cool setting on a blow dryer if you are in a hurry.

Tips for Maintaining Your Sew In Weave with Leave Out Between Washes

Now that you know how to properly wash your sew in weave with leave out let’s go over some tips for maintaining its cleanliness between washes:

1. Keep Your Scalp Clean: Your scalp produces natural oils, sweat, and debris that can build up under your weave. Use a dry shampoo or scalp cleansing solution to keep your scalp clean and refreshed in between washes.

2. Tie Your Hair Up at Night: Before going to bed, make sure to loosely tie your hair up in a satin or silk scarf or bonnet. This will prevent your extensions from tangling and protect them while you sleep.

3. Avoid Excessive Heat: Just like with washing, try to limit the use of heat on your sew in weave with leave out as it can cause damage and reduce its lifespan.

4. Brush Daily: Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush daily to keep your hair tangle-free and looking neat.

Products Recommended for Washing a Sew In Weave with Leave Out

Using the right products is essential for maintaining a healthy sew in weave with leave out. Here are some recommended products:

1. Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner: As mentioned earlier, sulfate-free products are less harsh on both your natural hair and extensions and won’t strip away their natural oils.

2. Dry Shampoo/Scalp Cleanser: These products are great for freshening

1. How do I wash a sew in weave with leave out?
To wash a sew in weave with leave out, first detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb. Wet the hair thoroughly, apply a sulfate-free shampoo, and massage it into the scalp and weave. Rinse the shampoo out completely before applying a conditioner to the ends of the hair. Rinse again and gently squeeze out excess water before air drying or using a low heat setting on a blow dryer.

2. Can I use regular shampoo to wash my sew in weave with leave out?
It is not recommended to use regular shampoo on your sew in weave as it can cause build-up and damage the extensions. It is best to use sulfate-free shampoos specifically designed for weaves or natural hair.

3. How often should I wash my sew in weave with leave out?
The frequency of washing your sew in weave will depend on your specific hair type and lifestyle. On average, it is recommended to wash your weave every 1-2 weeks to prevent product build-up and maintain healthy hair.

4. Can I use hot water to wash my sew in weave?
Using hot water can damage both your natural hair and the extensions of your sew in weave. It is best to stick with lukewarm or cool water when washing your hair.

5. Do I need to take out my leave out piece when washing my sew in weave?
No, you do not need to remove your leave out piece when washing your sewn-in extensions. However, be sure to thoroughly rinse any products used on both the leave-out and the extensions.

6. What products should I avoid when washing my sew in weave with leave out?
Avoid using products that contain heavy oils, silicones, sulfates, or alcohol as they can cause build-up and damage to the hair and extensions. It is best to use lightweight and natural products.

In conclusion, washing a sew in weave with leave out can be a simple and effective process if proper care and technique are applied. It is important to follow the steps of detangling, shampooing, conditioning, and drying in order to maintain the quality and longevity of the weave. Additionally, incorporating regular maintenance and using appropriate products will also contribute to successful results.

The type of hair used for the weave should also be considered when determining how often to wash it. Synthetic hair may require less frequent washings compared to human hair. It is crucial to use mild, sulfate-free products and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the hair and scalp.

Remember to always be gentle and patient with your sew in weave during the washing process. This will prevent any unnecessary tangling, shedding or damage. With proper care and maintenance, your sew in weave with leave out can last for several weeks or even months.

Furthermore, it is recommended to consult with a professional stylist if any issues arise or if you are unsure about how to properly care for your sew in weave. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific hair type and needs.

Overall, taking proper care of your sew in weave with leave out will not only ensure its longevity but also promote healthy hair growth. By following these guidelines and techniques

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.