The 8 Best Head Wraps and Sleep Bonnets to Protect Your Hair at Night

Have you ever woken up from a good night's rest with hair that feels dry, stiff, tangled, and frizzier than it did eight hours before? The truth is, your bedding and sleep habits could be taking a toll on your precious tresses.

While your sheets and duvet might be comfortable and even cute, cotton pillowcases and fabrics are known for drying out hair overnight, especially if you're not covering or protecting your strands properly. "The overnight goal for hair wellness is to retain as much moisture in the hair as possible," says Ohio-based dermatologist Hope Mitchell, M.D., F.A.A.D. "Cotton-containing pillowcases or head wraps will absorb moisture from the hair," drying out strands and making them more prone to breakage. Not to mention, as you toss and turn at night, the friction between your pillowcase and hair weakens the hair follicles, which can also result in further breakage, knots, and extremely frizzy locks.

Dr. Mitchell points out that African American tresses tend to have an especially fragile hair shaft, and constant friction of textured hair rubbing against cotton bedding each night can break the shaft, expose the cuticle, and lead to damage. "The hair cuticle is the outer layer of the hair shaft that protects the hair," explains Dr. Mitchell. When friction and moisture loss damage the cuticle to the point it's eliminated, the hair will break because it's lost its protection, she adds. (

This is why hair wraps, head scarves, and sleep bonnets play just as much of an important role in protecting curls, braids, and twists as the products in your hair-care routine. Beyond just preserving hairstyles, head wraps and silk bonnets keep much-needed moisture in the hair, explains Dr. Mitchell. "And moisture retention is of utmost importance in preventing breakage and length retention." It's also key for keeping frizz at bay, your straight hair silky smooth, and your curls and spirals intact.

When it comes to wrapping your hair up at night, be sure to reach for head wraps and sleep bonnets made of silk and satin. Unlike cotton, these types of soft, smooth fabrics provide a barrier between your hair and bedding (and allow for your head to seamlessly slide against your pillow when tossing at night) to help limit friction and prevent breakage, dryness, and knots. Silk also doesn't absorb moisture from the hair, thereby helping you score a smooth hair shaft and, in turn, less frizz. (

And here's a pro tip: Head scarves and sleep bonnets can also act as conditioning caps at night. Next time you're trying out a new hair mask or leave-in conditioner, pin up your hair and pull on your silk head wrap to lock in that ever-important moisture and get the most out of your hair masks and treatments.

After splurging on the best products to take care of your hair and scalp, it would be remiss of you to let your hard work and money go to waste by leaving your hair unprotected at night. So, consult the guide below for the best head wraps, scarves, and sleep bonnets to protect your strands while you snooze.

Awefeel Double-Layer Satin Sleep Cap

This silk bonnet is perfect for braids, curly tresses, and long hair since it comes in two sizes or lengths: 19 inches for shoulder-length hair and 27 inches for long strands. It has an elastic edge to keep it in place, and the inside is made of a silky smooth fabric to combat frizz. And if you like to tie your hair up in a ponytail or bun while you do your nighttime skin-care regimen, this sleep bonnet also comes with a matching hair scrunchie.

One fan wrote: "I rarely give five-star reviews, but wow. I am a super rough sleeper, I toss and turn all night, and have literally never found a scarf that will stay on. I have a drawer full of scarf types I've tried over the years. I have zero idea how this one is staying on, not moving an inch, and is so comfortable... but I'm already buying a second one for the future."

Buy It: Awefeel Double-Layer Satin Sleep Cap, from $10, amazon.com

Isoken Enofe Cynthia Hair Bonnet

Inspired by the Afrocentric heritage, this sleep bonnet is crafted with luxurious Turkish silk and features colorful, bold designs on the outside and soft satin on the inside. Slip it on to protect your tresses at night or use it as a fashion accessory to mask a bad hair day while running errands or meeting a friend for lunch. (

Buy It: Isoken Enofe Marlena Head Band, $15, isokenenofe.com

Evolve Satin Wide Edge Bonnet

Designed with a wide headband to ensure edge control, this hair covering is roomy and comfortable enough to fit over the biggest curls, protective styles, and roller sets. Also worth noting: Reviewers say it won't leave annoying lines on your forehead or pinch so tightly that it gives you headaches. "Finally a bonnet that isn't too tight! I love the thick band, it's very comfortable... no more headaches," wrote a shopper. The budget-friend buy comes in classic black, but if you prefer something bolder, check out the brand's orange or patterned bonnet.

Buy It: Evolve Satin Wide Edge Bonnet $5, amazon.com

Vernon Francois Sleep-In Silk Cap

Made of 100 percent silk, this cap is sure to keep your strands moisturized — after all, "It is all about the moisture for Afro-textured hair," says Dr. Mitchell — zap frizz, and prevent friction — all of which are essential for reducing damage. Featuring an adjustable tie for loosening or tightening the cap, it's perfect for anyone who wants total control over the snugness of their sleep bonnet. (

Buy It: Vernon Francois Sleep-In Silk Cap, $25, vernonfrancois.com

Red By Kiss Satin Bonnet Super Jumbo Size

At just $5 a pop, this satin bonnet is perfect for protecting your wash-n-go, twist-outs, braids, and other curly styles thanks to its oversized fit. One five-star reviewer noted how lightweight the head covering is while still offering plenty of room to secure their locks safely inside. (

Buy It: Red By Kiss Satin Bonnet Super Jumbo Size, $5, amazon.com

Grace Eleyae The Slap

Thanks to the silk-lined interior, this sleep bonnet keeps your curls nourished and frizz-free. It also features a comfy elastic band to keep the covering in place and is stylish enough to wear outside of the house for errands and more. Just take it from a fan, who wrote, "Super cute and stylish! Great alternative to wearing a scarf throughout the day — especially in winter. Keeping my hair moisturized and friction-free :)." (

Buy It: Grace Eleyae The Slap, $24, graceeleyae.com

Yanibest Hair Cover

With a comfy beanie-like fit, this hair covering has an outer layer constructed of a cotton-spandex blend, and a silky inner lining made of 100 percent satin. Unlike other sleep bonnets, it features a low-profile buckle and adjustable elastic strap for a truly customized fit. Plus, it's garnered over 8,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers.

"As an African-American woman with a natural hairstyle, I am constantly combatting dryness, trying to retain the moisture in my hair. I purchased this hat with that intent and was amazed at the results," shared a customer. "After sleeping in it for 2 nights, my hair is as moist as it was on wash day and my twist-out curls are intact. An additional bonus is that this slouchy hat looks great and I can wear it when I go out."

Buy It: Yanibest Hair Cover, $18, amazon.com

Silke London The Poppy

It might be a splurge, but this beautiful, two-toned silk cap will have you feeling fierce and fashionable whether you're headed to bed or hitting a party — all while conditioning your curls and protecting you from nightly damage. Made of 100 percent pure mulberry silk, it also has an elastic headband to make slipping it on and off a breeze. "I love this product," shared a shopper. "This stays put and my hair needs minimal attention in the morning.

Buy It: Silke London The Poppy, $71, silkelondon.com