A clean wig in good shape can be donated, sold, or handed to someone who needs one, while a tangled or worn wig is better repurposed or recycled. Give it a wash and a gentle detangle first, since a fresh wig is far more useful to the next person.
Wigs can be costly, so yours likely has more life and value left than you think. Here is how to decide what to do with it.
Clean It First
Whatever you choose, start with a clean wig. Soak it in cool water with a little wig or gentle shampoo, swish gently, rinse, and let it air dry on a stand or towel. Do not wring it. A clean, detangled wig is the difference between a welcome donation and one that gets tossed.
Donate It
Donation is a great option, but check the rules first, since many programs have specific needs.
- Wig banks and cancer support groups. Some accept gently used wigs to give to patients who cannot afford one. Call ahead, because many prefer wigs in very good condition.
- Theaters and schools. Drama departments love wigs for costumes and are not picky about wear.
- Thrift stores and Buy Nothing groups. Both rehome wearable wigs quickly.
Note that many cancer charities actually need donated hair to make new wigs, rather than used wigs. If you want to help that way, look into hair donation instead.
Sell It
Human hair and high-quality wigs hold real value. List a clean one on eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace, and note whether it is human hair or synthetic, plus the brand, color, and length.
Repurpose a Worn Wig
- Use it for Halloween costumes, cosplay, or dress-up
- Let a hairstyling student practice cuts and styles on it
- Style it on a mannequin head for display or crafts
- Use bits of synthetic hair for doll repair or art projects
How to Recycle a Wig
Human hair wigs can be composted or added to a garden, since hair breaks down and adds nutrients. Synthetic wigs are plastic fibers and are harder to recycle, so check for a textile or specialty program before tossing one. While you are sorting the vanity, our bathroom decluttering guide can help, and old scarves covers another accessory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I donate used wigs?
Wig banks, cancer support groups, theaters, schools, and thrift stores. Call first, since many medical programs want wigs in very good condition.
Can you recycle a wig?
Human hair wigs can be composted. Synthetic wigs are plastic fiber, so look for a textile or specialty recycler rather than the trash.
How do you clean a wig to donate it?
Soak it in cool water with gentle shampoo, swish, rinse, and air dry on a stand. Do not wring it. Detangle gently before and after.
Are old wigs worth money?
Human hair and quality brand wigs can sell well on eBay or Poshmark. Note the hair type, brand, color, and length in your listing.