For a caregiver, keeping hair clean can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are practical resources and tools (like a shampoo basin with a spout) that make it possible to wash hair in bed comfortably, protect bedding, and avoid a big mess.
Why Hair Washing in Bed Is Sometimes Necessary
Some older adults can’t bathe using a tub or shower because they have limited mobility, use a wheelchair, or have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and resist bathing.
Keeping their hair and scalp clean and fresh can seem impossible when someone is unable to access a shower or bath.
No-rinse shampoos, dry shampoos, and wiping with wet cloths are helpful, but they aren’t as effective as thorough hair washing with water. A real wash with water, shampoo, and conditioner will make your loved one feel more comfortable and keep their scalp healthier.
Affordable Shampoo Basin Options
These basins make washing hair in bed much easier and cost between $19.99–$26.
- $19.99 Duro Med DMI Portable Inflatable Shampoo Bowl – inflatable basin with a built-in drain hose
- $17 DMI Portable Inflatable Shampoo Bowl – compact and easy to deflate for storage
- $26 DMI Portable Shampoo Bowl – portable shampoo basin with drain hose
*Available from Amazon and medical supply retailers. DailyCaring may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this article.
Alternatives When a Full Hair Wash Isn’t Possible
If washing with water isn’t an option on certain days, caregivers can:
- Use no-rinse shampoo caps warmed in the microwave (pack of 3 for $9.49 on Amazon)
- Try spray-on dry shampoo to absorb oils
- Freshen the scalp with warm, damp cloths
- Place a cape or blanket across the shoulders to protect your clothes when spot-cleaning only the back of the head.
These are short-term solutions, but a complete wash in bed provides the deepest clean.
Video: Washing Hair in Bed – With No Mess
This short 3-minute video walks step-by-step through washing an older adult’s hair in bed. Watching the process makes it easier to know how to do it yourself without getting water everywhere.
Here, we’ve summarized the supplies you’ll need and the steps to take.
What You’ll Need to Wash Someone's Hair in Bed
Protecting the Bed and Person
- Garbage bags and/or large towels to keep bedding dry
- Extra towels or a small blanket for spills
- A cape or oversized towel to protect clothing
Hair Washing Essentials
- Shampoo basin for washing hair in bed (see suggestions above)
- A bucket of warm water with a spout for easy, gentle pouring
- A cup or a pitcher for scooping water and rinsing
- Mild shampoo and conditioner
- An empty bucket or tray to catch dirty water
- Washcloths
Optional Comfort Items
- Cotton balls for ears
- A small towel to cushion the neck opening of the basin
- Washcloth to hold over the face
- Lavender-scented shampoo or warmed towels for relaxation
Step-by-Step Guide: Washing Hair in Bed
- Lay out all your supplies so everything is ready.
- Line the bed with towels, garbage bags, or a waterproof blanket to keep it dry.
- Fill one bucket with warm water.
- Gently place the person’s head into the inflatable basin.
- Ensure the basin is positioned to drain into the empty bucket or tray.
- Scoop warm water from the full bucket or pour using the spout to wet their hair.
- Use a small amount of shampoo to wash their hair. (Too much makes rinsing harder.)
- Scoop warm water over the scalp to rinse thoroughly.
- Apply a small amount of conditioner if your hair is dry, then rinse again.
- If hair is filthy, shampoo and rinse a second time.
- When hair is clean, gently remove their head from the basin.
- Wrap their head in a dry towel or blanket to keep them warm and comfortable.
- Drain the basin fully; you may need to tip it into a bathtub or sink.
Extra Comfort and Safety Tips
- Test the water temperature on your wrist before pouring.
- Warm towels or blankets in the dryer for added comfort.
- Gently massage the scalp, especially the back of the head, for relaxation.
- Talk through each step so they know what to expect, especially if they have a dementia-related diagnosis.
Washing hair in bed may seem complicated at first, but with the proper setup, it can be simple, safe, and even relaxing. Using a shampoo basin, warm water, and a small amount of conditioner helps keep the scalp clean and healthy without creating a mess.
Small touches, such as a cape, blanket, or soothing scents, add comfort and dignity to your loved one. These practical steps and resources provide caregivers with confidence, ultimately enhancing the experience for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually once or twice a week, but it depends on health, comfort, and hair type.
Yes, but it’s much messier. A basin with a spout directs water into a drain bucket or tray, saving cleanup time.
Offer choices, like picking shampoo or conditioner scent, use calming resources like soothing music, and speak reassuringly throughout the process.
Recommended for you:
- How Often Should Seniors Bathe? 3 Essential Health Tips
- 7 Tips to Get Someone with Dementia to Shower
- 9 Enjoyable Activities for Seniors with Limited Mobility
About the Author
Connie is the founder of DailyCaring.com and was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also understands the importance of support, especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
