A T-Shirt Turban: Wrapping Your Hair The Right Way

There are many reasons to wrap your hair in a t-shirt, from protecting your hair after a wash to drying your curls. The technique is called plopping and is used to reduce frizz and enhance curls or waves. It is a simple process that involves laying a t-shirt flat, flipping your hair onto it, and then folding the t-shirt over your hair and tying the sleeves into a knot at the back of your head. This method works for all hair types, but is especially beneficial for those with curly or wavy hair.

How to tie the t-shirt

Firstly, lay your T-shirt out on a flat surface with the sleeves closest to you. Then, flip your hair over so that it points towards the centre of the shirt. Your curls should be gathered at the crown of your head to help provide lift at the roots.

Next, flip the shirt onto your head with the bottom of the fabric sitting at the nape of your neck. Now, grab the sleeves and twist them. Then, tie the longer sleeves in a knot at the back of your head.

If you are using a short-sleeved T-shirt, you can simply tuck in the ends of the T-shirt or use large hair clips to secure the ends of the T-shirt to your wrapped hair.

If you are sleeping with your hair plopped, simply shake it out in the morning since your hair will dry completely overnight.

How to prepare hair before wrapping

To prepare your hair for wrapping, you'll first want to wash and condition it as you normally would in the shower. You can use your favourite shampoo and conditioner, or products designed for your specific hair type. After washing, gently squeeze out any excess water with your hands or a microfiber towel.

Next, apply your chosen hair products to your hair while it's still wet. This could include leave-in conditioners, oils, creams, mousse, gel, or curl-enhancing products. Work the product into your hair using a scrunching motion, starting from the ends and working your way up.

If you use a mist or spray product, apply it evenly to your wet hair. You can also spritz your hair with sea salt spray after it has dried to enhance beachy waves.

Now your hair is ready for wrapping!

How to Wrap Your Hair:

Lay a T-shirt flat on a bed, counter, or other surface with the sleeves closest to you. Bend forward and flip your hair over so that it hangs down towards the centre of the T-shirt. Your hair should be gathered at the crown of your head to help provide lift at the roots.

Grab the bottom of the T-shirt and pull it up and over your hair, so that it covers your head and touches the nape of your neck. Take the sleeves and twist them together to tighten the "bag" around your head, then wrap the twisted sleeves around your head and tie them in a knot to secure the T-shirt.

You can keep your hair wrapped until it is mostly or completely dry. This will help to reduce frizz and enhance your hair's natural structure, whether it's curly, wavy, or straight.

How to wrap hair with a short-sleeved t-shirt

Plopping is a method of drying wet hair by piling it on top of your head and wrapping it in a t-shirt. This technique is particularly useful for people with curly or wavy hair, as it helps to enhance volume and definition while reducing frizz. It also works for straight hair, although it will not make it curly, it can create a slight wave.

Step 1:

Lay your t-shirt on a flat surface with the sleeves closest to you. Bend over the t-shirt, placing your hair in the middle of it. Make sure your hair is still wet and that you haven't brushed or combed it, as you want to maintain your hair's natural structure.

Step 2:

Bring the side of the t-shirt that is closest to you towards your forehead and then bring the ends together at the nape of your neck.

Step 3:

Take the side of the t-shirt that is away from you and bring it to the nape of your neck. Press it in place to secure the ends.

Step 4:

Rise while holding the sleeves in your hands and gently tug them.

Step 5:

Tighten the wrap until it feels secure. Tie the sleeves at the front of your head. If the sleeves are long, you may need to bring them to the back and tie them again or tuck the ends at the sides. Make sure the knot is tight enough so that the t-shirt won't come loose.

How long to keep your hair wrapped:

This depends on your hair type. If you have short or fine hair, start checking your hair after 10-20 minutes. For longer or tightly coiled hair, you can leave it wrapped for longer. You can also sleep with your hair wrapped and remove the t-shirt in the morning.

How long to leave hair wrapped

Once you've wrapped your hair in a t-shirt, the hard work is done. Now, you just need to leave your hair to dry. But how long should you leave it? Well, that depends on your hair type. If you have short or fine hair, start checking your hair after 10–20 minutes, as it dries faster than long or tightly coiled hair. If you've got the time, those with long or tightly coiled hair can leave their hair wrapped for up to 45 minutes. This will give you more defined curls. However, if you want loose waves, rather than defined curls, you may not want to leave your hair wrapped for as long. If you leave your hair to dry completely while it's wrapped, you may need to run your fingers through it to loosen the curls.

If you're planning on sleeping with your hair wrapped, make sure to use a long-sleeved t-shirt, as this will be more comfortable. You can also use hair clips to secure the t-shirt, rather than tying it, which may be more comfortable for sleeping.

How to remove the t-shirt

Once your hair is dry, you can remove the t-shirt. The time it takes for your hair to dry will depend on its thickness. You will be able to feel when your hair is getting drier, and once it is around 70% dry, you can untie the sleeves of the t-shirt. Gently shake out your curls and allow your hair to air-dry completely.

One of the most common mistakes when plopping hair is to leave the t-shirt on overnight. This is not recommended because it can cause curls to dry out and the friction of the t-shirt can cause frizz while you sleep.

If you have left your hair to air-dry, simply shake your head gently to loosen your hair. Work your fingers along your part and you're done! If you want to blow-dry your hair, attach a diffuser to the end of your hairdryer and dry your hair until it is mostly dry.

If you have slept with your hair plopped, simply shake it out in the morning since your hair will be completely dry.

Frequently asked questions