HOW TO PROTECT WIGS FROM PETS AND CHILDREN

Wigs are an investment  not just financially, but emotionally too. Whether it’s a human hair wig you love styling or a synthetic unit you wear daily, nothing is more frustrating than finding it chewed, pulled, tangled, or ruined by curious pets and playful children.

If you have kids or pets at home, you already know: anything within reach becomes a toy. Unfortunately, wigs with their soft fibers, scent, and interesting texture are extremely attractive to both.

This detailed guide will show you practical, realistic ways to protect your wigs from pets and children, keep them in perfect condition, and avoid costly damage.

Why Pets and Children Are Attracted to Wigs

Understanding why they go after wigs helps you prevent the problem.

Pets (especially dogs and cats)

The wig smells like you (very attractive to pets)

Hair texture feels like fur to chew or scratch

Movement of the hair triggers hunting/play instincts

Wigs left on beds, chairs, or low tables look like toys

Children

They see wigs as dress-up items

They love touching and pulling hair

They are curious about textures

They don’t understand the value of the wig

The Biggest Mistake Wig Owners Make

Leaving wigs within reach after removing them.

On the bed.

On a chair.

On the dresser.

On the sofa.

This is the number one reason wigs get destroyed.

The moment you remove your wig, it must go to its safe place immediately.

Rule #1: Never Leave a Wig Exposed

A wig should never be left out in the open if you have pets or children.

Even if you plan to wear it again in “five minutes.”

That five minutes is enough time for:

A dog to chew the lace

A cat to tangle the strands

A child to pull the hairline

Someone to step on it

Create a “Wig Safe Zone” (Very Important)

Designate a place in your home that is completely off-limits to pets and children.

Examples:

Top shelf of a wardrobe

Locked drawer

Storage box inside your closet

A high cabinet

This is where the wig lives whenever it is not on your head.

Use a Wig Storage Box With a Lid

A box is much safer than leaving a wig on a mannequin head in an open room.

Best options:

Wig box with cover

Plastic storage box with lid

Original wig packaging

Silk/satin wig bag placed inside a box

A closed container removes:

Smell access for pets

Visual attraction for kids

Easy physical access

Avoid Wig Stands in Open Areas

Wig stands and mannequin heads look nice, but they are dangerous in homes with pets and kids.

They:

Look like toys

Fall over easily

Expose the wig completely

If you must use a stand, keep it inside a wardrobe or on a very high shelf.

Keep Wigs Away from Beds and Sofas

Pets love beds and sofas. Children jump on them.

Never drop or place your wig there — even briefly.

Make it a habit:

Head → Storage. Immediately.

Train Pets to Stay Away

You can train pets not to touch wigs.

Use firm “No” commands when they approach

Don’t allow them play with hair extensions or old wigs

Never let them sniff or chew anything hair-related

If they learn that hair is a toy, they will always go for your wig.

Educate Your Children Early

Children are curious, not wicked.

Explain to them:

This is not a toy

It is expensive

Touching or pulling it can spoil it

You can even show them an old wig or extension and say:

“This one you can touch, this one you cannot.”

Clear boundaries work surprisingly well.

Store Wigs Without Your Scent

Pets are attracted to your scent.

Before storing:

Lightly air the wig

Avoid spraying strong perfumes on it

Store it in a satin/silk bag to reduce scent spread

Use Zipper Wig Bags

Zipper wig bags are excellent protection.

They:

Prevent tangling

Hide the wig from sight

Reduce scent exposure

Add an extra layer before the box

Double protection is best in homes with pets and kids.

Be Careful While Air-Drying Wigs

This is when most wigs get destroyed.

After washing, many people place wigs on a stand in an open room to dry.

This is very risky.

Instead:

Dry wigs in a locked room

Place them high up

Keep doors closed while drying

Don’t Let Children Watch You Style Your Wig

Once children see you combing, brushing, and handling the wig, they want to imitate you.

Style your wig in private or keep it out of their sight.

Travel and Visitors Precautions

When visitors with kids come over, or when traveling with pets:

Pack wigs inside sealed boxes

Keep luggage zipped

Never leave wigs on hotel beds or chairs

Emergency Tip: If a Pet Grabs Your Wig

Do NOT drag it from their mouth.

You can tear the lace.

Instead:

Stay calm

Offer a treat or toy

Gently retrieve the wig

Then inspect immediately for damage.

Make It a Habit, Not an Effort

Protection becomes easy when it becomes routine:

Remove wig → Bag → Box → Safe place.

Every single time.

Wigs are delicate. Pets and children are naturally curious. The solution is not to blame them, but to remove temptation completely.

Most wig damage in homes with pets and kids happens not because they are destructive — but because the wig was left accessible.

If you follow these rules consistently, your wigs can last for years without a single incident.

Out of sight. Out of reach. Out of danger.