Step-by-Step: How to Do an Apple Cider Vinegar Cleanse for Dreadlocks

Over time, dreadlocks can trap and gather residue buildup deep inside. Even with regular washing, these materials can linger - leading to dullness, odor, or an itchy scalp. One of the most effective and natural ways to reset your locs is with an apple cider vinegar (ACV) cleanse.

In this guide, you’ll learn what an ACV cleanse is, when you should do one, and exactly how to do it safely without damaging your dreadlocks. This guide can also be used to clean dreadlocks that have fallen off before reattaching them.

What Is an Apple Cider Vinegar Cleanse?

The two main parts of an ACV cleanse are baking soda and apple cider vinegar. Baking soda's alkali pH allows it to break down oils and dirt from your hair, leaving you with a fresh scalp and lighter, healthier dreadlocks. Apple cider vinegar then balances the pH of your scalp. ACV also contains acetic acid, which helps prevent mold, mildew, and even lice from growing inside your locs.

Benefits of an ACV Cleanse for Dreadlocks

Residue buildup that accumulates within your locs is created by ingredients in shampoos that don't wash out (even the best shampoos for dreadlocks leave some reside), and sebum, an oily secretion of the glands on your scalp that protects your hair and skin from moisture loss. Your locs can also be weighed down by environmental materials that get trapped inside, such as hard water minerals, lint, and dirt.

Doing an ACV cleanse correctly can:

• Remove stubborn product buildup

• Eliminate unpleasant odors

• Restore shine and softness

• Balance scalp pH

• Reduce itching and irritation

• Help locs feel lighter and cleaner

How Often Should You Do an ACV Cleanse?

A deep cleanse like this should only be done every 3 - 4 months. Doing it too often can dry out your hair. You can also do a cleanse after a long period of work or recreation that leaves your hair dirty. For example, I do an ACV cleanse every year after Burning Man.

You would especially benefit from an ACV cleanse if:

• Your locs feel heavy or sticky

• Your hair looks dull or grayish

• You notice white or waxy residue

• Your scalp itches even after washing

• You’ve used waxes, heavy creams, or gels

• You have hard water

  
  

Step-by-Step: How to Do an Apple Cider Vinegar Cleanse for Dreadlocks

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Large bowl, sink, or wash basin  - if you can get one, it's well worth not having to stand with your neck in an awkward position for the whole cleanse

• Several thick towels

• 1/4 a box of Baking Soda

• Approximately 1/2 cup of Apple Cider Vinegar and 1/2 water in a measuring cup or empty bottle. Place in your shower before the soak.

If you live in an area with hard water, consider investing in a plastic-free water filter for your drinking water and hair needs - you will have clean water without buying plastic bottles, which will save you money in the long run.

Step 2: Prepare the ACV Soak

• Fill your basin with comfortably hot water. Try to leave enough space so that it does not overflow when your hair is submerged.

• Add around 1/4 of a standard box of baking soda - there is no need to use extra.

If using a sink

Lay a folded towel on the edge of the sink to make it as comfortable as possible. Test out what position you will be standing in - depending on your furniture, you may need to stand in front of it with your head down, or be able to sit on a chair and lay your head back.

If using a wash basin

Place your basin on a folded towel in a spot where you will be able to lie flat. Roll up a towel to use as a neck rest, and leave the others within reach.

Step 3: Soak Your Dreadlocks for 15-20 minutes

• Submerge your dreadlocks completely in the mixture, tilting your head back to get as much of your hair into the water as possible.

• Set a timer on your phone for 15 - 20 minutes. You shouldn't guess, as baking soda is harsh and can strip your hair of its natural oils if soaked for too long.

Step 4: Squeeze Your Dreadlocks

• After the soak, wring your dreadlocks out into the wash basin.

• The water will be cloudy or even look muddy - this is all the buildup that was released from your locs!

• Wrap your hair in a towel to avoid dripping water everywhere and head to the shower.

Step 5: Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

• Rinse your dreadlocks with regular water to get more baking soda out before you use any ACV

• Pour the vinegar water over your scalp and work down your dreadlocks, squeezing it in as much as possible.

• Let is soak for 3 - 5 minutes

• Wash your hair once more to remove any remaining vinegar smell and loosened debris.

An apple cider vinegar cleanse is one of the best ways to deep-clean dreadlocks naturally and restore them to a fresh, healthy state. When done occasionally and correctly, it can dramatically improve the look, feel, and smell of your locs.

If you’ve never done one before, be prepared—you might be surprised by what comes out!