Claw clips are officially that girl of hair accessories. They’re chic, versatile, and make every “I can’t be bothered” hair day look instantly put together. Whether you’re rocking a messy bun, a French twist, half-up style, or just hopping in the shower style, claw clips are a must-have in every bag.
But here’s the thing, your claw clip won’t last forever if it’s tossed at the bottom of your bag (don't worry we're calling ourselves out here too), covered in hairspray residue, or forced to hold a mountain of hair it wasn’t built for(thick hair girlies, we see you 👀) With just a little TLC, you can keep your clips looking brand new and avoid the heartbreak of a snapped claw.
Here’s everything you need to know about cleaning, storing, and styling your claw clips, so they stay fresh, flawless, and fabulous for years to come.
Why Claw Clip Care Matters
Think of claw clips like your favourite pair of shoes, with the right care, they last season after season. Without it, they scuff, snap, or lose their shine.
Even the most durable clips are prone to:
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Product build-up from hairspray, dry shampoo, or oils.
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Scratches and chips when thrown into a bag with keys or loose change.
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Breakage from overstretching or forcing too much hair inside.
By learning how to clean, store, and protect your clips, you’ll not only save money but also make sure they always look sleek in your hair.
How to Clean Claw Clips at Home
Cleaning your claw clips doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are two easy methods:
Quick Rinse Method
Perfect for clips that just need a refresh.
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Rinse the clip under warm running water.
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Use your fingers or a soft cloth to wipe away hairspray or dust.
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Pat dry thoroughly with a towel.
This method works great if your clip isn’t heavily used or only has light residue.
Deep Clean for Product Build-Up
For clips that have seen one too many “messy bun Mondays.”
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Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a drop of mild soap or shampoo.
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Dip a soft toothbrush into the soapy water and gently scrub the clip, especially in grooves and hinges.
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Rinse under clean water to remove any soap.
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Dry completely with a soft cloth, making sure no water lingers in the hinge or spring (to avoid rust).
💡 Pro tip: For metal claw clips, a microfiber cloth will help restore shine after cleaning.
Best Ways to Store Your Claw Clips
How (and where) you store your claw clips can make or break their lifespan.
Do:
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Keep them in a vanity tray for easy reach and display.
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Store them in a fabric pouch or small case when traveling.
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Use a drawer organizer with compartments to keep clips separated.
Don’t:
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Toss them in the bottom of your bag with heavy items.
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Store them in damp places like a bathroom sink drawer (moisture can dull or rust metal clips).
By giving them a little home of their own, you’ll avoid scratches, snapped claws, and tangled messes.
Tips to Avoid Breakage
Even the strongest claw clips have their limits. Here’s how to avoid the dreaded snap:
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Know your clip’s size. Smaller clips aren’t meant for thick, full updos, use them for half-up styles instead.
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Don’t overstretch. Pulling a clip wider than it’s designed to open weakens the spring.
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Handle with care. Always hold clips by the body, not just the claws, when opening.
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Avoid heat damage. Leaving clips in direct sunlight or near hot styling tools can warp plastic or dull metal finishes.
Styling Without Damaging Your Clips
Yes, your claw clip is functional, but it deserves a little love too. When styling:
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Let hair products dry before clipping to prevent sticky residue.
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Alternate between claw clips, scrunchies, and pins to give each accessory a break.
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Secure your clip gently, it doesn’t need to clamp your hair to death to hold, at least not with Goldn clips *hint hint*
Not only will your clips thank you, but your hair will too.
Shop Durable, Long-Lasting Clips
The easiest way to make your claw clip last forever? Start with one that’s built to. At Goldn Wares, our claw clips are made from durable materials designed to resist snapping, fading, and daily wear.
From timeless neutrals to statement-making designs, our collection is curated to give you style and strength in one accessory. Shop now and find your new forever-favorite. ✨
Final Thoughts
Caring for your claw clips doesn’t take much, just a quick clean, safe storage, and mindful styling. But those small habits add up to clips that look brand new, hold better, and last much longer.
So next time you’re tempted to toss your clip into the depths of your tote bag, remember: a little TLC goes a long way. Your future self (and your hair) will thank you. 💛
Frequently Asked Questions About Claw Clip Care
Can claw clips get wet?
Yes, most claw clips can get wet, but always dry them thoroughly afterwards. Metal clips, in particular, should be fully dried to avoid rust or tarnishing. If you're a beach girl, the please please, rinse your hair clips after swimming in the ocean, we've all been there before, and leaving salt water to dry on your clip will cause the spring to rust, and no one wants that!
How often should I clean my claw clips?
If you use styling products regularly, aim to give your clips a quick rinse once a week and a deep clean every 2–3 weeks. For light use, once a month is plenty.
Can I fix a broken claw clip?
Minor issues like a loose spring can sometimes be adjusted, but in most cases, once a clip snaps, it’s best to replace it. Choosing high-quality clips will prevent frequent breakage.
What’s the best claw clip size for thick hair?
Larger, wide-tooth clips are best for thick or long hair. If this sounds like you, our Large Longe Clip or Arch Clips will be perfect for the thick hair girls. Smaller clips are better suited for fine hair or half-up hairstyles like our Small Dash Clips.
Are claw clips bad for your hair?
Not at all, when used properly, claw clips are gentler than elastics since they don’t tug or crease hair. Just make sure not to clamp them too tightly on wet strands, as hair is more fragile when damp.
