How do I tidy hair of doll which has been stored for ages

Tidying the hair of a doll that has been stored for a long time can be a delicate process, but it can significantly improve the doll's appearance. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you restore the doll's hair:

Materials Needed:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Fine-tooth comb or brush
• Detangling spray or fabric softener mixed with water (1:1 ratio)
• Small towel
• Bowl of warm water
• Mild shampoo and conditioner (optional)
• Hairdryer (optional, on a cool setting)
• Scissors (for trimming, if necessary)

Steps to Tidy the Doll's Hair:

1. Preparation:
   • Lay a small towel on your working surface to protect it from water and any cleaning products.
2. Detangling:
   • Spray the doll's hair with a detangling spray or the fabric softener mixture to make it easier to manage.
   • Gently comb through the hair with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. This will help to remove any tangles without pulling out the hair.
3. Washing (Optional):
   • If the hair is very dirty, you can wash it using a mild shampoo. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of shampoo.
   • Dip the doll's hair into the soapy water, gently massaging it with your fingers. Avoid getting water on the doll's body if it's not water-resistant.
   • Rinse the hair thoroughly with clean warm water.
4. Conditioning (Optional):
   • Apply a small amount of conditioner to the hair if it is very dry or frizzy.
   • Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
5. Drying:
   • Gently squeeze out excess water from the hair with a towel. Do not rub, as this can cause more tangles.
   • Allow the hair to air dry completely. If you're in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer on a cool setting, keeping it at a safe distance from the hair to avoid damage.
6. Final Combing:
   • Once the hair is dry, use a fine-tooth comb or brush to smooth it out. Be gentle to avoid pulling out any strands.
   • If there are still some stubborn tangles, apply a bit more detangling spray and work through them gently.
7. Styling and Trimming:
   • Style the hair as desired. If there are any split ends or very damaged sections, you can trim them carefully with scissors.

Tips:

• Avoid Heat: Do not use hot water, hot styling tools, or harsh chemicals on the doll's hair as they can cause damage.
• Storage: After tidying the hair, consider storing the doll in a way that will prevent future tangling, such as placing a hairnet or soft cloth around the hair.