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How to Put on a Bonnet: DIY Bonnets on Curly & Straight Hair

By Author Kenneth Byrd

Posted on Last updated:

A young black woman with naturally curly hair gathered her loose hairs to keep her hair protected in a sleep bonnet.

Protecting your curls is crucial if you want to reach your hair health and length goals, and silk or satin bonnets are fantastic hair protectors.

But if you put on your bonnet incorrectly, you won’t reap the full benefits of wearing one. For anyone who’s at a loss as to how to put on a bonnet, this article will be a lifesaver.

We are going to take all of the guesswork out of bonnet-wearing; we’ll walk you through the best way to put on a bonnet, how to keep it secure, and how to choose the right bonnet for you.

This Is How to Put on a Bonnet

Most of us are familiar with the numerous benefits of wearing a bonnet. But if you want to get the most out of yours, you’ll need to put your bonnet on the right way. Here are the steps to follow to put your bonnet on like a pro:

HOW TO SLEEP WITH CURLY HAIR + 5 reasons to sleep with a bonnet

How to Wear a Bonnet

  1. Bend over and tip your hair forward until all of your curls are hanging down.
  2. Hold your bonnet open and place one side at the nape of your neck.  
  3. Pull the bonnet open and stretch it over your curls, using the back of your head as an anchor.
  4. If any of your ends are hanging down, push them up toward your scalp with your hands. Fold your hair onto itself like an accordion to make sure it all fits.
  5. Once all your hair is piled on top of your head, stand up and pull the bonnet on the rest of the way.
  6. Make sure all of your curls are tucked in, and adjust the band as needed. It should sit just in front of your hairline. 
Young African American female with flat hair strands preparing to wear a silk bonnet before she goes to sleep at night.

Note: For a more secure fit, you can place a few bobby pins around the edge of the cap and secure them against your scalp. You shouldn’t need to do this if your bonnet is the right size, but it can work until you’re able to purchase one that fits properly. 

Key Takeaways

  • Silk vs. Satin Bonnets. Silk and satin bonnets are good for hair care. They reduce friction and offer protection against hair damage. Silk is eco-friendly and breathable but more expensive. Satin is also a great option. It’s more affordable and has smoother fibers.
  • Correct Bonnet Application. For curly or wavy hair, gather your hair at the crown. Fold your hair like an accordion for straight or flat hair. Ensure a snug fit to prevent slippage and protect hair follicles from breakage.
  • Benefits for Various Hair Types. Bonnets benefit all hair types by maintaining natural oils, reducing frizz, and supporting hair growth. They are especially crucial for black women with naturally curly hair (often type 4 curls). Although, we recommend bonnets for all hair types.
  • Preventing Nighttime Hair Loss. Secure the bonnet with bobby pins for a perfect fit, especially for long or thick hair. This nighttime routine prevents hair loss and damage from cotton pillowcases.
  • Choosing the Right Bonnet. Consider the length and thickness of your hair when selecting a bonnet. Larger-sized bonnets accommodate long or thick hair. Also, a silk or satin pillowcase can offer extra protection for various styles.

Keep reading to learn more about how to use a bonnet with your hair care routine.

How to Put a Bonnet on Straight Hair

Although similar, the process for putting a bonnet onto straight hair differs slightly. Want to know how to do it? Here are some step-by-step instructions for how to put a bonnet on straight hair. 

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How to Put Straight Hair in a Bonnet

  1. Hold your bonnet open in front of you. 
  2. Bend forward and pool your hair into the bonnet. 
  3. Pull the bonnet up while folding the length of your hair onto itself like an accordion.
  4. Once your hair is in place, pull the cap onto your head. 
  5. Check the perimeter of your bonnet and tuck any stray hairs that you find into the cap. 
Cute black woman with frizzy hair capturing her curls in a pineapple hairstyle to preserve curls while sleeping.

Should a Hair Bonnet Go Over Your Ears?

When it comes to wearing a bonnet over or behind your ears, you can do whatever makes you feel comfortable.

Some people prefer to pull their bonnet down over their ears so it doesn’t rub against their delicate hairline. It can also help relieve pressure and keep your bonnet from feeling too tight.

Despite this, most people prefer to wear their bonnet behind their ears. Doing so can help prevent the elastic from stretching out and result in a more secure fit. 

Since individual preferences vary, try both methods to see which best fits your needs. 

Young African American girl after drying her wet hair putting her curls in a pineapple updo as she prepares for bed.

How to Keep a Bonnet From Coming off at Night

All the perks of wearing a bonnet go right out the window if it falls off your head at night. Luckily, you can take steps to make sure that doesn’t happen. That’s what we’ll cover in the list below:

HOW TO KEEP BONNETS ON AT NIGHT | Natural Hair Care Kids #naturalhair #kidshair
  • Make sure you get the right size for your head and hair. Every manufacturer’s bonnet sizing may differ, so finding the right size may take a bit of trial and error. 
  • If your bonnet ties in the front, try to tie it a bit tighter.  
  • Secure the bonnet by sticking bobby pins or hair clips around the perimeter.
  • Invest in a higher-quality bonnet. 
  • Tie a scarf over your bonnet to keep it in place.

Are Protective Bonnets for All Hair Types?

Although they’re closely associated with kinky and curly textures, soft and protective bonnets are for all hair types. They protect the hair from frizz, breakage, tangles, and moisture-sucking pillowcases whether your hair is type 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Bonnets can also wick away excess oil, keeping it off your skin and pillowcase. 

A young black lady wearing a yellow sleep shirt with curly natural hair goes through proper nighttime preparation.

How to Find the Right Bonnet

Although bonnets are protective, not all of them are created equally. Some types may do more harm than good, so pick your bonnet carefully. This section will highlight the factors you should consider when selecting a bonnet. 

The Quality of the Material 

Both silk and satin bonnets should be smooth and slippery to the touch. Avoid ones that have snags or rough patches, as they can rub against your hair and cause breakage.

In addition to the cap, pay attention to the material used around the edge of the bonnet. Cotton or any exposed elastic will rub at your strands and could even pull some out. 

A very attractive young black female with a naturally curly hair type has tangled hair from not wearing a bonnet.

The Size of the Bonnet

While making sure all of your hair fits into the body of your bonnet is essential, you should also pay attention to the tightness of the elastic band. If the band is too loose, the bonnet may come off at night.

A band that is too tight will rub against your edges (i.e., baby hairs) or give you a headache. Ideally, your bonnet should fit snugly without causing you any discomfort.

Select the Right Style

Bonnets come in several styles. You can choose between bonnets with or without an adjustable strap or elastic band. There are also extra-large bonnets explicitly made for longer tresses or giant afros. Try several to figure out which works best for you. 

Young black girl that keeps her hair healthy at night by wearing bonnets and protective natural hairstyles.

Should You Choose a Silk or Satin Bonnet?

When you purchase a bonnet, the two primary options you’ll find are ones made from silk and satin.

Although both silk and satin bonnets help your hair maintain moisture and prevent damage, each material has a unique set of strengths and weaknesses, which we will look at below:  

Benefits of Silk 

  • Silk is considered more environmentally friendly than satin. 
  • Silk is breathable and helps your body regulate its temperature. 

Drawbacks of Silk

  • Silk is very expensive compared to satin. 
  • Many manufacturers try to pass off cheaper fabrics as silk. 

Benefits of Satin

  • Satin bonnets are less expensive than ones made from silk.
  • Satin is synthetic, so the fibers tend to be smoother and more forgiving than silk. 

Drawbacks of Satin

  • Satin bonnets may only be smooth on one side, prompting wearers to put them on inside out to minimize friction during wear.  

On the whole, you really can’t go wrong with either silk or satin when it comes to hair health. 

Young mixed race female with a great smile wearing a thick headband design to protect her curls at night.

Scarf vs. Bonnet: Which Is Best?

As a general rule, use a scarf if your hairstyle is flat and you want to keep it that way. A tightly tied scarf will help preserve your style and is the best choice for keeping straightened hair sleek.

For a more textured hairdo, like curls or an afro, consider wearing a bonnet. The roomy cap gives your natural curls plenty of space so you don’t wake up with a squashed hairdo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about how to use a bonnet? Our FAQ section has the information you need. It gives straightforward answers for all hair types.

Do You Wear a Bonnet With Wet Hair?

You can wear a bonnet with wet hair, especially a satin or silk bonnet. These materials create less friction and help reduce frizz. It’s a gentle way to protect your hair type, particularly for those with curly or frizzy hair. Bonnets ensure the hair dries smoothly and retains natural oils for the following day.

Should Your Hair Be Loose in a Bonnet?

Your hair can be worn loose in a bonnet. For long hair and certain styles, like braids, it’s best to loosely gather your hair to prevent tangles and breakage. The size of the bonnet should accommodate your hair type and length. Ensure the bonnet allows for a comfortable fit without too much pressure on your strands.

Are You Supposed to Wear a Bonnet Every Night?

Wearing a bonnet every night, especially a silk or satin hair bonnet, is beneficial. These bonnets protect against hair damage and help maintain hairstyles. Regular bonnet wearing is an easy way to preserve your hair’s health. They minimize friction from cotton pillowcases and aid in moisture retention.

Can I Wear a Bonnet With Straight Hair?

Wearing a bonnet with straight hair is beneficial. A silk or satin bonnet reduces friction and helps maintain the sleekness of straight hair. This prevents tangles and minimizes hair breakage. It’s an effective way to protect your hair and preserve your style until the following day.

What Does a Bonnet Do for Curly Hair?

A bonnet is excellent for curly hair as it helps maintain natural curls, reduce frizz, and protect hair from breakage. The reduced friction from a silk or satin bonnet helps preserve the natural oils and curl pattern. Bonnet, making it an essential part of a curly hair care routine.

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Now you have all the information you need to choose and put on a bonnet, regardless of whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight. We hope the tips and tricks we’ve gone over in this article were precisely what you were looking for to make putting on your bonnet a breeze.