How To Care for Rooted Mohair (Brushing, Conditioning, and Frizz Fixes)

There’s something about gently smoothing a reborn’s hair. The way each strand catches the light. The soft hush as a brush passes through. It can be a soothing ritual — but only if you know how to keep that delicate mohair safe. This guide will walk you through how to care for rooted mohair, with clear steps, UK-friendly products, and calming reassurance.
Storybook illustration of a reborn doll with rooted mohair being gently brushed, with a conditioner spray and muslin cloth nearby, and sparkles above.

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What is rooted mohair?

Many reborns are finished with mohair — a soft, silky fibre made from the hair of angora goats. Artists use a fine needle to root each strand into the vinyl scalp, one by one. It can take 20–40 hours just to finish the head.

Why it matters:

  • Mohair gives your reborn a natural newborn look.
  • Proper rooting allows the hair to move and “flop” like a real baby’s.
  • With care, mohair can last for years — but without it, hair may break, frizz, or fall out.

Essential tools for brushing and styling

Before you begin, gather the right supplies. The gentler the tool, the longer your reborn’s hair will last.

  • Soft baby toothbrush → ideal for lightly brushing hair without tugging.
  • Baby hairbrush (with natural bristles) → smooths and flattens gently.
  • Reborn-safe hair mist → prevents dryness and frizz (avoid oils or harsh sprays).
  • Fine mist spray bottle → filled with distilled water to lightly dampen hair.
  • Soft cloth → to pat dry if needed.

💡 Tip: Keep a small “hair basket” with these tools by your doll’s basket or display stand, so care becomes a calming daily ritual.

How to brush reborn hair safely

Rooted mohair is delicate — treat it as you would a newborn’s fine hair.

  1. Support the head. Always cradle your reborn’s head before touching the hair. The vinyl is weighted to flop, so gentle support is key.
  2. Mist lightly. Use a fine spray of distilled water or a reborn-safe conditioning mist. The hair should be just damp, never wet.
  3. Start at the ends. Use your baby brush or toothbrush to detangle from the tips first, then work up toward the roots.
  4. Brush in natural direction. Artists root mohair to mimic real growth patterns — brushing against them can loosen strands.
  5. Pat dry. If you’ve used spray, gently blot with a soft cloth and let air dry naturally. Never use a hairdryer.

Reborn mohair conditioning tips

Mohair, like real hair, can dry out over time. Conditioning keeps it soft and smooth.

  • Use a silicone-free, water-based conditioner (a light baby detangler or a reborn-specific hair mist works best).
  • Less is more — a couple of sprays is usually enough.
  • Distribute gently with a soft brush or your fingers.
  • Avoid product build-up by only conditioning when the hair feels dry or frizzy.

Reborn doll frizz prevention

Over time, mohair can frizz if it’s brushed too harshly or left dry. Here’s how to prevent it:

  • Store with a soft hat — a thin cotton hat keeps hair neat, without pulling.
  • Limit friction — lay your reborn on smooth blankets, not scratchy fabrics.
  • Rotate positions — if your doll lies in one spot too long, hair may mat underneath.
  • Handle gently — avoid brushing every day unless needed; sometimes a light finger-comb is enough.

Safe products for UK collectors

You don’t need a cupboard full of supplies. A few simple items will keep your reborn’s hair beautiful:

  • Distilled water: Available in most UK supermarkets and chemists. Prevents mineral deposits that can leave marks.
  • Baby-friendly hair conditioner or detangler: Choose alcohol-free, silicone-free formulas (often found in baby sections at Boots, Superdrug, or supermarkets).
  • Reborn-specific sprays: Available from trusted UK artists and reborn shops — often scented (like baby powder or clean linen) for a gentle “just bathed” freshness.

Always patch-test new products on a hidden section first.

Common questions: reborn doll hair care

Can I use a normal hairbrush?
It’s best to use a baby brush or toothbrush. Regular brushes can pull out mohair.

Can I wash my reborn’s hair in the sink?
No — water can loosen glue, damage vinyl, and cause mould. Stick to light misting.

How often should I brush?
Only when needed. Daily brushing may cause wear. A light tidy every week or two is usually enough.

What if my reborn’s hair gets frizzy?
Dampen slightly with distilled water or reborn doll conditioning spray, then gently brush in the direction of rooting. For stubborn areas, smooth with your fingers instead of forcing the brush.

🔗 Read next: [Best ways to dress your reborn doll safely]

Gentle close

Caring for rooted mohair is less about doing it perfectly, and more about approaching it with calm hands. Each careful stroke is a moment of connection — a reminder that slowing down, even for a few minutes, can bring peace.

Your reborn’s hair doesn’t have to be flawless. It just needs your gentle touch.

Small habits protect both the doll and the comfort it brings.

❧

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Storybook-style circular headshot of Aya with wavy brown hair, a patterned headband, and teal shirt on a soft cream background.

About the Author

Aya is a UK-based reborn artist and care guide at Moon & Milk Dolls. She creates lifelike reborn dolls and shares calm, sensory-aware guidance on comfort, care, and collecting—so every cuddle feels just right.
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