For parents of kids with curly or coily hair, wash day can sometimes feel like a marathon. From detangling knots to keeping hair moisturised, it requires patience and the right routine. But the good news is—when done correctly, wash day doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few gentle techniques and the right products, you can make wash day an enjoyable bonding experience while keeping your child’s curls healthy, hydrated, and defined.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through an easy wash day routine for kids with curly and coily hair, step-by-step. We’ll also highlight a few carefully chosen products from Root2Tip, a brand loved by many parents for its natural, kid-friendly haircare range.
Why a Wash Day Routine Matters for Curly and Coily Hair
Curly and coily textures are naturally drier than straight hair because the bends and coils make it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. This dryness can lead to tangles, breakage, and frizz if the hair isn’t cared for properly.
A consistent wash day routine ensures:
- Proper cleansing of the scalp and hair
- Retention of essential moisture
- Easier detangling and styling
- Healthier, stronger curls over time
With the right steps, you’ll not only maintain your child’s curls but also help them feel confident and proud of their natural hair.
Step 1: Pre-Wash Detangling
Before wetting your child’s hair, start with a gentle detangling session. Dry detangling can cause breakage, so always use a moisturising spray to soften the hair first.
Try spritzing their strands with Honey Rain Juice Leave-in Detangler from Root2Tip. It’s lightweight, hydrating, and works brilliantly to melt away knots without tears. Once applied, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle section by section.
Tip: Always detangle from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
Step 2: Gentle Cleansing
Cleansing is an essential part of wash day, but harsh shampoos can strip natural oils, leaving curls dry and brittle. Opt for a sulphate-free shampoo that cleans without over-drying.
On wash days, gently massage shampoo into the scalp using your fingertips (never nails) to lift dirt and product build-up. Focus mainly on the scalp, as the shampoo will cleanse the hair length while rinsing.
For kids, a nourishing cleanser like Root2Tip’s Cool Mint Curl Cleanser is ideal. It balances cleansing with moisture, which is perfect for delicate curls.
Step 3: Deep Conditioning
After shampooing, it’s time to restore hydration with a conditioner. This step is non-negotiable for curly and coily textures because it softens the hair, adds slip for detangling, and strengthens strands.
Apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, working it through section by section. Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution. Leave the conditioner on for at least 5–10 minutes to allow the nutrients to penetrate.
If your child’s hair is extra dry, you can use the Root2Tip Intense Deep Conditioner for a moisture boost. It’s enriched with natural ingredients that nourish and strengthen fragile curls.
Step 4: Rinse and Protect
Once conditioning is done, rinse with cool water. Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and giving the curls a natural shine.
Pat (don’t rub) the hair with a soft cotton towel or, even better, a microfiber towel or old t-shirt to reduce frizz. Rubbing can roughen the cuticle and cause unnecessary breakage.
Step 5: Moisturise and Seal
Curly hair thrives on moisture, so after washing, you’ll want to layer hydration using the LOC or LCO method (Liquid, Oil, Cream / Liquid, Cream, Oil). For kids, a simplified version works well:
1. Leave-in Conditioner (Liquid): Apply a light leave-in to keep curls soft and manageable. The Honey Rain Juice Leave-in Detangler doubles up as a leave-in, making it an excellent choice.
2. Cream: For added definition and softness, apply a curl cream like Sunlight Curl Creme from Root2Tip. It’s lightweight yet effective for styling kids’ curls without weighing them down.
3. Oil (optional): If your child’s hair is very dry, you can lightly seal the ends with a natural oil such as argan or jojoba oil. This step helps lock in all the moisture from the leave-in and cream.
Step 6: Styling Made Easy
For kids, simple protective styles are best. They reduce tangling, retain moisture, and save you time during busy mornings. Options include:
- Two-strand twists
- Braids or cornrows
- Buns or puffs
- Pineapple (for bedtime)
Keep styles neat but not too tight—tight styling can lead to tension and breakage.
Step 7: Night-Time Care
Wash day doesn’t end when styling is done. Night-time care is just as important for maintaining your child’s curls.
Here are some simple tips:
- Use a satin pillowcase or bonnet to prevent frizz and tangling while your child sleeps.
- Lightly spritz the hair with Honey Rain Juice in the morning to refresh curls.
- Re-moisturise as needed between wash days.
How Often Should You Wash Kids’ Curly Hair?
This depends on your child’s hair type and activity level. In general:
- Curly hair: Every 7–10 days
- Coily hair: Every 10–14 days
Avoid over-washing, as it can strip natural oils and dry out the hair. Between washes, refresh curls with a spritz of leave-in or water.
Key Wash Day Tips for Parents
- Be patient: Curls need gentle care—never rush detangling.
- Use kid-friendly products: Stick to natural, sulphate-free options.
- Make it fun: Turn wash day into a bonding activity with music or storytelling.
- Stay consistent: A regular routine helps maintain healthy curls long-term.
Conclusion
Wash day for kids with curly and coily hair doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right steps—detangling, gentle cleansing, conditioning, moisturising, and protective styling—you’ll not only make the process easier but also nurture strong, healthy curls.
The key is consistency and the right products. Brands like Root2Tip offer natural, kid-friendly solutions such as the Honey Rain Juice Detangler and Sunlight Curl Creme that take the stress out of wash days.
By following this simple routine, you’ll ensure that your child’s curls stay soft, defined, and full of life—every wash day and beyond. Visit www.root2tip.com for variety of hair care products.