The 4 Types of Wig Stands: Which One Is Right for You?

JL Wig Consulting

April 30, 2025

When it comes to caring for your wig, how you store it matters. Using the right wig stand helps maintain your wig’s shape, style, and longevity, especially if you’ve invested in a high-quality human hair piece.

But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Let’s break down the four types of wig stands, what they’re used for, their pros and cons, and which one might be best for you.

1. Canvas Block Head

Best for: Styling and secure work with human hair wigs

The canvas block head is a salon-grade wig stand made from durable canvas material and a solid base (usually cork inside). It mimics the size and shape of a human head and is the most secure option for professional styling, especially when used with a wig clamp and T-pins.

Pros:

• Ideal for blow drying, curling, cutting, or heat styling

• Offers a firm surface for pinning and parting

• Comes in different sizes to match head circumference

• Long-lasting and sturdy

Cons:

• Bulkier than other stands

• Usually requires a table clamp for stability

• Not ideal for everyday display—more for active use

JL Wig Tip: We recommend having your canvas head matched to your exact head size, especially if you're using it to customize a wig.

2. Mannequin Stand (Plastic or Fiberglass)

Best for: Display and occasional light styling

A mannequin head stand looks like a classic display mannequin, often made of plastic, fiberglass, or sometimes a soft rubber material. These are commonly used in retail settings or for light styling at home.

Pros:

• Great for storing or displaying your wig attractively

• Can be used to gently style wigs (as long as they aren’t heat styled aggressively)

• Some have shoulders to display full looks

Cons:

• May not be stable enough for serious styling or pinning

• Not always the best size match for your head

JL Wig Tip: Use mannequin heads for display or gentle brushing—not for intense styling or customization.

3. Styrofoam Head

Best for: Budget-friendly storage and drying

Styrofoam wig heads are lightweight, affordable, and super easy to find. While they’re not as durable or precise as other options, they’re great for air-drying your wig or casual, safe storage.

Pros:

• Inexpensive and lightweight

• Great for letting your wig air dry after washing

• Easy to place on a dresser or shelf

Cons:

• Fragile—can dent or crumble over time

• Not suitable for heat styling or heavy use

• One-size-fits-all may distort cap shape over time

JL Wig Tip: These are perfect for drying synthetic wigs or storing your backup wig, but be gentle with them, especially when using T-pins.

4. Collapsible Wig Stand

Best for: Travel and everyday use

Collapsible wig stands (often plastic or wire) fold flat and are super lightweight, making them perfect for travel or everyday air circulation at home.

Pros:

• Affordable and very lightweight

• Allows airflow to help wigs dry naturally

• Folds flat for packing in a suitcase or drawer

Cons:

• Not sturdy enough for styling

• Doesn’t offer head-like shape and you can’t pin the wig on

• Can warp wig shape if used long-term for heavy human hair wigs

  
  

JL Wig Tip: Keep one in your suitcase or drawer for travel. They're great for air-drying your wig as well.

So... Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide:

Your Need	Best Wig Stand
Daily display/storage	Mannequin or collapsible
Air drying after washing	Styrofoam or collapsible
Custom styling or cutting	Canvas block head
Display with full outfit/hairline	Mannequin head
Travel-friendly option	Collapsible stand

Final Thoughts

The right wig stand can help protect your investment, extend the life of your piece, and make styling easier. At JL Wig Consulting, we always recommend pairing the right tools with the right wig—and that includes how you store it when it’s not on your head.

Need help choosing a wig stand that works best for your lifestyle and hairpiece? Reach out during your next consultation, and we’ll walk you through your best options.

Your wig deserves proper care—and you deserve peace of mind.