How to Wear a Bonnet: Go-To Guide for Perfect Fit and Comfort

I still remember the first night I decided to wear a bonnet. My curls had been looking great that day, and I was determined to wake up without the usual frizz and tangles. But when I tried it on for the first time, I felt like I was wrestling with an elastic jellyfish. The struggle was real—until I learned the right way to do it.

If you’ve ever wondered how to wear a bonnet without it sliding off or leaving weird lines on your forehead, this guide is for you. I’ll walk you through my exact steps, share tips I’ve picked up over time, and even link a short YouTube video that helped me get it right the first time.

Why Should You Wear a Bonnet at Night?

Before we talk about how, let’s quickly touch on why. A good bonnet, especially silk or satin, is your hair’s nighttime shield. It reduces friction, locks in moisture, and keeps your style intact for longer.

For me, wearing one meant fewer split ends, softer curls, and way less breakage. If you’ve invested time in braids, twists, or a blowout, it’s basically a no-brainer.

How to Wear a Bonnet Step-by-Step

I’ve tried a lot of methods, but this is the one that works for me every time.

1. Start with clean, dry hair
   Your bonnet will work best if your hair isn’t weighed down by product buildup. I usually wash or co-wash, then let my hair dry completely.
2. Gather your hair neatly
   If you have long or thick hair, a loose braid or twist keeps it from bunching up. When my hair is shorter, I just smooth it back with my fingers.
3. Position the bonnet at your hairline
   Hold it open with both hands, stretch gently, and place it so the front sits right where your forehead starts.
4. Pull it over your head
   In one smooth motion, bring the bonnet back over your hair, making sure all strands are tucked inside.
5. Adjust for comfort
   It should feel snug but never tight. If your bonnet has ties or an elastic band, adjust them so they hold without pressing into your skin.
6. Secure it
   Tie the straps or check the elastic so it stays in place. Trust me—waking up bonnet-free after a perfect twist-out is soul-crushing.

Need a quick visual?

I found this YouTube video by Gena Marie super helpful when I was figuring out how to wear a bonnet without it slipping off. She breaks it down in under 40 seconds.

How Do You Keep a Bonnet from Slipping Off?

I’ll be honest—this was my biggest frustration at first. The key is fit and material.

A bonnet that’s too loose will slide right off, especially if you toss and turn. On the other hand, one that’s too tight will leave marks and feel uncomfortable. I recommend trying adjustable bonnets with a drawstring or band.

Also, satin tends to grip better than slippery silk if you have fine hair.

Does the Material of the Bonnet Matter?

Yes—big time. I always recommend silk or satin. Cotton bonnets can soak up your hair’s moisture, leaving it dry. Satin and silk reduce friction and help maintain hydration.

Here’s a quick comparison:

How to Choose the Right Bonnet Size

A bonnet that’s too small will compress your hairstyle, while one that’s too big will slip off. I learned this the hard way when my extra-large bonnet kept falling over my eyes.

Measure your hair volume and choose accordingly:

• Small/Medium: Short to shoulder-length hair
• Large: Braids, locs, or thick curls
• Extra Large: Jumbo braids or very long hair

How Often Should You Wash a Bonnet?

I wash mine once a week. Think of it like your pillowcase—it collects oil, product, and sweat. A dirty bonnet can transfer all of that back into your hair. I hand wash with a gentle detergent, then air dry.

Common Mistakes People Make When Wearing a Bonnet

• Putting it on with damp hair – Traps moisture, leading to frizz or mildew smell.
• Choosing the wrong size – Either too tight or too loose, both cause problems.
• Not securing long hair – Creates bulk and tangles inside the bonnet.

FAQ About How to Wear a Bonnet

1. Can I wear a bonnet during the day?

Absolutely. I sometimes wear mine while doing chores or lounging if I want to keep my curls protected.

2. Will wearing a bonnet every night damage my hairline?

 Only if it’s too tight. Choose a bonnet with a soft, wide band to avoid tension.

3. Is it okay to wear a bonnet over wet hair?

I wouldn’t recommend it. Wet hair is more fragile, and the bonnet will trap moisture, which can lead to frizz or even mildew.

4. What’s better—silk or satin?

It depends on your budget and hair type. Silk feels amazing but satin is a great, affordable option that still protects hair.

Wrapping It Up with Style

Once you figure out how to wear a bonnet properly, it becomes second nature. The right fit, material, and technique will keep your hair healthier, shinier, and frizz-free.

For me, it’s the easiest beauty habit I’ve kept—and waking up with hair that still looks good feels like a little win every morning. So find your perfect bonnet, make it part of your routine, and let your hair thank you for it.