Hailey Tran
Washing your hair while in hospital can be challenging, especially if you have restricted mobility or are bedridden. If you are able to shower, you can wash your hair there, or you can wash it in a sink or in bed. If you are washing your hair in bed, you can use a plastic or inflatable basin to collect the water. If you are washing your hair in a sink, you can buy a hair-washing tray to make the process easier. When washing your hair, use a no-tears shampoo, and start with the hairline at the forehead, moving to the sides and back.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Water pressure | Low |
| Time allowed for shower | 10 minutes |
| Alternative options | No-rinse shampoo, dry shampoo, shampoo cap, filling up water bottles, using a squeeze bottle, using a hair-washing tray, using a basin |
| Shampoo amount | Small amount |
| Shampoo type | No-tears shampoo |
| Shampoo procedure | Start with the hairline at the forehead, then move to the sides and the back |
| Towel | Drape over the shoulders to keep the person dry |
| Basin | Inflatable basin that allows water and shampoo to be used while the patient is in bed |
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What You'll Learn
No-rinse shampoo, dry shampoo, or wet cloths
If you are unable to wash your hair with water during your hospital stay, there are alternative methods and products you can use to maintain hair hygiene. These include no-rinse shampoo, dry shampoo, and wet cloths.
No-rinse shampoo, also known as waterless shampoo, is a convenient option for those who cannot wash their hair with traditional shampoo and water. It comes in the form of shampoo caps, which are commonly used in hospitals for bedridden patients. These caps are placed in the microwave for added comfort and then worn on the head, eliminating the need for rinsing. This method effectively cleans the hair and prevents mess by allowing the water to drip into a plastic bag placed under the head.
Dry shampoo is another alternative for those who cannot wash their hair with water. It is available in powder or spray form and can be used to absorb excess oil and grease from the hair, leaving it feeling refreshed. However, it is important to note that dry shampoo should not be used as a long-term replacement for regular washing, as it can cause scalp issues and pore clogging if not washed out over time. For those with darker hair, it is recommended to work the product into the hair more thoroughly to avoid any residual greyness or whiteness left by the product.
Wet cloths can also be used as an alternative to traditional hair washing in a hospital setting. Warm water from a bathroom can be poured into a plastic bowl and used with a disposable jug and washcloth to wet the patient's hair. This method may be more suitable for patients who are unable to move or leave their beds but wish to maintain their hair hygiene.
Overall, no-rinse shampoo caps, dry shampoo, and wet cloths are all viable options for maintaining hair hygiene in a hospital setting when traditional hair washing is not feasible. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, and the choice between them may depend on factors such as the patient's mobility, hair type, and length of hospital stay.
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Using a sink
If you are washing someone's hair in a sink, you can buy a hair-washing tray or use a basin. First, have the person sit in the chair and face away from the sink. Put a towel or cape over the person's shoulders and upper body to keep their clothes and skin dry. Then, put the hair-washing tray over the person's shoulders, with the U-shaped end against their neck. The other end of the tray should be in the sink.
If you are using a basin, wrap towels around the person's neck and shoulders to keep them dry. You can also place a towel against their hairline to avoid drips.
Wet the person's hair by pouring warm water from a container over their hair. Alternatively, attach a hose and nozzle to the sink faucet to spray water on the hair, or use a jug. Wash the person's hair with a no-tears shampoo, starting with the hairline at the forehead and moving to the sides and back. Gently lift the head with one hand to reach the back of the head and neck. Rinse the hair, then apply conditioner if the person uses it. Rinse again and dry the hair with a towel or hair dryer.
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Using a bed
If you are washing someone's hair while they are in bed, there are several methods you can use. Firstly, it is important to ensure the comfort and dignity of the person whose hair you are washing. Make sure they do not need the restroom, and check they are not cold. Wrap towels around their neck, shoulders, and face to keep them warm and dry. Ensure privacy in the room.
One method is to use a plastic or inflatable basin or tray. Place a waterproof sheet on the bed, and then position the basin under the person's head, with their neck resting in the U-shaped opening. You can pour warm water from a container, or attach a hose and nozzle to the faucet to spray water onto the hair. Wash the hair with shampoo, starting at the hairline and moving to the sides and back. Gently lift the head with one hand to reach the back of the neck and head. Rinse the hair, and apply conditioner if the person uses it. Dry the hair with a towel.
Another method is to use a garbage bag. Place a chuck pad or underpad under the person's head, then a towel, and then the bag, tucking it under their neck. Put a bath towel inside to catch the water and soap, and use a cup to pour water over the head and shampoo it.
You can also use a shampoo cap, which requires less cleanup. Alternatively, you can wash the hair in small sections with a spray bottle, washing and drying each section before moving on.
Finally, you can use a bedpan or bucket to catch the water, with an inflatable shampoo bowl.
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Using a shower
If you are washing someone's hair in a hospital using a shower, it is important to ensure that the person's experience is as comfortable as possible. A clean scalp and hair can help prevent diseases and chronic conditions, such as dandruff and folliculitis, and can improve emotional well-being and physical comfort.
First, gather your supplies. You will need a towel to drape over the person's shoulders to keep them dry, or a salon-type cape. You will also need shampoo and conditioner, or a product that contains both. If the person is bedridden, an inflatable wash basin can be useful. This can be placed under the person's neck as they lie down, and filled with water.
If the person can stand, help them into the shower. If the shower is small, it may be helpful to install a detachable shower head. You can also use a jug or a cup to pour warm water over the person's hair. Wash the hair with shampoo, starting at the hairline at the forehead and moving to the sides and back. Gently lift the person's head with one hand to reach the back of the head and neck. Rinse the hair, then apply conditioner if the person uses it. Rinse again, then dry the hair with a towel or hair dryer.
If the person is in a wheelchair, it may be helpful to have grab bars installed in the shower to assist them in moving. You can also use a tilting commode—a chair that can lean back, which helps those who have trouble moving around easily. Position the chair in the right spot, then help the person sit on it comfortably. Tilt the chair so it's easy to reach their head, and use a soft cloth and water to gently wash their hair.
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Shampoo caps
To use a shampoo cap, simply place it over the patient's head, ensuring it covers the entire head. The cap does not require rinsing, making it a quick and efficient solution for caregivers and individuals with limited energy or mobility.
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Frequently asked questions
If you can't get to a shower or bath, you can wash your hair in bed with no mess by using a plastic or inflatable basin to collect the water. You can also use a hair-washing tray or funnel if you're washing your hair in a sink.
If you have access to a shower, you can use regular shampoo and conditioner. If not, you can use a no-rinse shampoo, a no-rinse shampoo cap, or dry shampoo.
Drape a towel over your shoulders or use a salon-type cape to keep yourself dry. If you're washing your hair in a sink, face away from it and use a hair-washing tray to avoid getting wet.
You should try to wash your hair as often as you would like. If you usually wash your hair every day, you may want to continue doing so in the hospital.
If you don't want to wash your hair with water, you can use a dry shampoo or a wet cloth to keep your hair and scalp clean.
