If you’ve ever tried to brush through your child’s hair after a busy day, you know the struggle: super knots (a.k.a. “rats’ nests”) that seem impossible to get through without tears. After lots of trial and error, I’ve found a method that makes detangling much easier and more comfortable—for both kids and parents. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Start With Hair Oil
Hair oil is your best friend. You don’t need much—a little goes a long way since oil spreads easily. My go-to is the Hair Oil from Wildgrove Botanicals (Soon to be available online!), but plain jojoba oil also works beautifully.
Apply a drop of oil directly to the knot. This helps soften and loosen the tangle so it’s easier to work out.
Step 2: Protect the Scalp
Hold the section of hair at the base of your child’s neck, then twist it around twice. This little trick keeps the pull from going directly to the nerve endings in the scalp. It won’t completely eliminate discomfort, but it softens the pull and makes the process so much easier.
Step 3: Work From the Bottom Up
Always begin brushing at the ends of the hair, not the top. I recommend using either a Wet Brush or an Unbrush (my new favorite!). The Unbrush detangles quickly and more comfortably than anything I’ve tried.
Start at the bottom, gently working out small knots as you go. Slowly move upward until you reach the twisted section in your hand.
Step 4: Section and Smooth
Once you’ve worked through the bottom section, release the twist and separate the hair into 3–4 smaller sections. Now you can brush slowly from the top of the head all the way to the tips, smoothing everything out. If you find large knots you can always twist the section of hair as you did earlier to help lesson the discomfort.
Extra Help: DIY Detangler
If you need extra slip, layer on some detangler spray over the oil. Don’t have any on hand? You can make your own in minutes!
- Add a teaspoon or three of conditioner to an empty spray bottle
- Use a ratio of 1/2 cup water to each teaspoon of conditioner, hot water works best to mix your solution.
- Shake well and spray as needed
Bonus Tip: Hair Oil Isn’t Just for Kids
Hair oil is wonderful for maintenance and overall hair health—no matter your age. Just remember: the finer your hair, the less oil you need, and the less often you should apply it.
With a little patience, the right tools, and this method, detangling doesn’t have to mean tears. It’s a routine that can actually leave hair softer, healthier, and more manageable for the whole family.
The Items That Help Me Calm This Chaos
➡I️ only share things I truly love and use myself. If you choose to purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission (My family and I thank you!). Every bit helps me keep creating and sharing inspiration here.
- Heat Unbrush Detangling Brush (Favorite!)
- Wet Brush (Second Favorite)
- Wildgrove Botanicals – Available at Well of Mercy Retreat Center Hamptonville, NC, Mother Earth Wilkesboro, NC, and soon online!
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