The Complete Dreadlock Detox Guide
So you’re not quite sure how to use a detox as part of your dread care routine? Don’t worry - we’ll guide you all the way and answer the questions we’re asked most often.
This detox guide contains everything you need to know - carefully created and tested by dreadheads, to support you and your dreadlocks.
Why do dreadlocks need a detox?
Build-up from products, hard water and everyday dirt can accumulate inside your dreadlocks - even if you wash them regularly. Over time, this can make dreads feel heavy, look dull and sometimes even cause irritation. Even with the best shampoo, some residues can remain.
To truly cleanse dreadlocks from within, the outer layer of the hair needs to open gently, allowing trapped build-up to be released safely.
RAW ROOTs Deep Cleansing Bomb is created for exactly this purpose.
A regular wash cleans the surface.
A detox goes deeper - without damaging the hair.
When and how often should you detox?
New and young dreadlocks need time and stability to mature and tighten. For that reason, we recommend waiting until your dreadlocks are at least 12 months old before doing a detox.
After that, detoxing every 3-4 months is usually sufficient to keep your dreads fresh and balanced.
Is it time for a detox?
If your dreadlocks are over 12 months old, it can still be hard to know when it’s time - or to remember it. Here are two simple approaches:
1. Use your senses:
- Do your dreadlocks feel stiff or hard?
- Do they start to smell quickly after washing?
- Do they look darker than usual?
- Do you find lint or dust trapped inside them?
2. Or follow a rhythm:
You don’t have to wait for signs - you can also detox at fixed times, for example:
New Year → Easter → Summer → Halloween
Tip: Buy 4 detox bombs at a time and write the dates on them. This creates a natural detox rhythm throughout the year.
How does RAW ROOTs Deep Cleansing Bomb work?
Imagine a single hair strand as a pinecone.
To cleanse it deeply, it first needs to open - and then close again.
Our detox bomb works in two phases:
1. Opens the hair and loosens build-up
- Baking soda has a high pH value, which gently opens the outer layer of the hair
- This allows trapped dirt and residues to be released
2. Neutralises and closes the hair again
- Apple cider vinegar and citric acid have a low pH and help close the hair
- This restores balance and leaves the hair soft and naturally clean
What’s inside RAW ROOTs Deep Cleansing Bomb - and why?
Baking soda
Lifts the hair cuticle and helps loosen build-up
Apple cider vinegar & citric acid
Neutralise pH and close the hair for balance and softness
Tea tree oil
Naturally antiseptic - helps with impurities
Rosemary oil
Stimulates and contains antioxidants
All ingredients are carefully selected to cleanse gently and support balance - without leaving residue.
What do you need for a detox?
To make it simple and safe, here’s everything in one overview:
Detox Essentials:
- Deep Cleansing Bomb
- Our inflatable detox tub or a bowl
- Bamboo microfiber towel
- Midnight Magic - Deep Cleansing Shampoo Bar
Aftercare (recommended):
- Lush Repair Oil - nourishes, softens and protects
- Refreshing Mist - adds protein and strength
- Rescue Tonic - soothes dry or irritated scalp
Optional:
- Dreadlocks Drying Cap - fast and gentle drying
Tip: Our Exclusive Dreadlock Detox Kit contains everything you need to get started with both detox and aftercare.
Rescue Tonic is not included in the Large Detox Combo Kit, but can be used as a supplement if you experience dryness or irritation.
How to detox your dreadlocks - step by step
1. Preparation
Find a calm place where you can relax comfortably. Many prefer to lie down to release tension in the neck and shoulders, but you can also sit if you’re able to lean your head back.
Use our inflatable detox basin or a bowl large enough for your dreads. Fill it with warm water (not hot - around 37-40°C is ideal).
2. Dissolve the detox bomb
Place RAW ROOTs Deep Cleansing Bomb into the water.
It dissolves on its own, but you can gently stir the water once or twice.
Wait until fully dissolved and evenly mixed.
3. Soak your dreadlocks
Lower your dreadlocks into the water and get comfortable.
Let them soak for 10-30 minutes.
4. Release build-up
After soaking, gently press your dreadlocks between your hands to release excess water.
The water may look cloudy - this means the detox is working.
Avoid twisting or wringing the hair.
5. Rinse and wash
Empty the basin and rinse your dreadlocks thoroughly with clean, warm water.
Wash using RAW ROOTs Deep Cleansing Shampoo Bar to remove remaining residues and restore balance.
6. Aftercare
Finish your detox with Lush Repair Oil, which nourishes and protects your dreadlocks so they regain softness and balance. After detox, hair can feel more open and dry - Lush Repair Oil provides the deep care needed to help it settle again.
If your dreadlocks feel stiff, dry or start forming loops, it may be a sign of protein deficiency.
Here we especially recommend Refreshing Mist, which adds strengthening protein and can be used between washes.
If you experience dry or irritated scalp, Rescue Tonic is a helpful supplement. It can be used after detox and in everyday care, directly on the scalp, in both wet and dry hair. Stored in the fridge, it provides an extra cooling effect.
7. Drying
Gently press out excess water using a bamboo microfiber towel. It’s highly absorbent and dries dreadlocks quickly without friction.
Let your hair air-dry completely. Avoid tying it up or sleeping with wet dreadlocks, as trapped moisture can cause odour or, in rare cases, mould.
If you need faster drying, use our Dreadlocks Drying Cap, which fits most hair dryers. If using warm air, protect your dreadlocks from heat - for example with Rescue Tonic.
Questions? You may find the answer here
Can I detox new dreadlocks?
We recommend waiting until your dreadlocks are at least 12 months old. New dreadlocks need time to settle, tighten and mature before being exposed to a detox treatment.
What if I have dyed hair?
The Detox Bomb is gentle, but if you have chemically dyed or plant-dyed hair, we recommend testing the detox on a small section first.
What if the water doesn’t turn dirty?
That’s completely normal. Not all build-up is visible.
The detox still works and cleanses deeply, even if the water looks clear.
How often should I detox?
As a general guideline, every 3-4 months is sufficient.
If you use residue-free products, you may need to detox less often.
Can I save and reuse the detox water?
No. The water contains the build-up that has been released from the dreadlocks and should be discarded after use.
What about decorations in my dreadlocks?
Strings and textile decorations can usually stay in during a detox.
- Strings and textile decorations can usually stay in during a detox.
- When it comes to beads, it depends on the material:
- If you’re unsure what your beads are made of, we recommend removing them before detox.
- Beads made of real brass can stay in and may even be gently cleaned during the detox.
- Wooden beads should be removed.
- After detox and during drying, it can be helpful to gently move the beads so the hair can dry completely where the bead usually sits.
What if I have partial dreadlocks?
Loose hair does not need a detox. We recommend gathering it into a bun or securing it with a hair clip during the process.
Should I wash my dreadlocks after a detox?
Yes - we strongly recommend it.
Washing with a low-pH shampoo helps rinse away remaining detox water and loosened residues, and restores the hair’s natural balance.
What if I don’t have the energy to wash after detox?
If you don’t have the time or energy for a full wash, you can use Refreshing Mist or Rescue Tonic instead.
They help gently restore balance until you’re ready for your next proper wash.
What if my dreadlocks are shorter than shoulder length?
You can simply break the detox bomb in half and use only one part.
What if I have synthetic dreadlocks?
Synthetic dreadlocks are made from artificial fibers and do not build up residue in the same way as natural hair. For that reason, a detox is neither necessary nor recommended if you only have synthetic dreadlocks.
If you have a combination of natural and synthetic dreadlocks, you can still detox - we simply recommend focusing the treatment on your natural dreadlocks.
We’ve walked this path before - now we walk it with you
We’ve guided you through every step - and we’re always here if you need support.
This guide is built on years of real experience.
RAW ROOTs was founded by Lisa - a trained hairdresser and dreadhead with deep knowledge of how natural ingredients work. Every product is carefully developed, tested and trusted by our dreadlock community.
Whether this is your very first detox or part of your yearly routine:
Now you know exactly what to do.
Take it slow.
Trust the process.
Your dreadlocks will thank you.
