Shower caps are not only for keeping your hair dry while you wash, they can also protect your hairstyle overnight to save hassle in the morning, and allow you to leave in deep conditioning treatments without product drying out. So whether you have long, short, wavy, thick or curly hair, this article is here to help you find the right one.
In our buying guide, we look at a few features that are essential to finding the right cap before ranking our top 10 favourites in the UK. With both reusable and disposable shower caps for women and for men, all of our picks can be purchased on Amazon and eBay so you can get them delivered to your door in time for your next bath!
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Table of Contents
So, let’s get stuck into the nitty-gritty of choosing a new shower cap. In this section, we’ll be looking at the pros and cons of various sizes, styles and linings. By the end, we’re confident you’ll know the best way to keep your hair dry when you need to!
The first factor that you want to consider is how to make sure the cap is going to fit snugly. If it’s a little too big, then you could see moisture get in, which in turn means you’ve welcomed frizz to the party. On the other hand, if it’s too tight it'll be uncomfortable, and you’ll likely not going to want to wear it.
Luckily, most caps will provide you with the diameter in one way or another. However, here’s where it can get a little troublesome, as some companies give you the diameter when laid flat, while others give you the reading taken when stretched to the maximum capacity. As a rule of thumb, any measurement under 30 cm will likely be the contracted size.
All shower caps have the best intentions when it comes to keeping you dry, but like everything in life, sometimes they’re unsuccessful. It’s like your coffee machine leaking, it’s annoying, but not enough to do without entirely.
For additional security, you could opt for a shower cap that comes with multiple layers. Usually, additional linings will be made from moisture wicking materials such as terry cloth, PEVA or cotton. These will not only provide increased protection, but absorb any water that gets in.
The problem with a lining is that if you want to use your cap for hair treatment purposes, it could draw product away from your hair, or even damage the inside of the cap. That said, you can always flip it inside out, or pick up some disposables instead.
While reusable caps might seem the way to go in the modern world, as we’re all trying to save the planet and create less waste, there are certain times when opting for a disposable can be a steady option. For instance, if you’re travelling and you don’t want to carry a soggy cap in your bag, then taking a couple of disposables you can discard will save you the hassle.
Furthermore, although you can't reuse them for washing your hair, that doesn’t mean they’re completely useless after one use. They can be used as a bag for wet and dirty shoes, a portable vase for flowers, or plenty of other up-cycling options, so get creative!
Overall, we would still recommend choosing a reusable shower cap. However, we do believe that both have their uses. So having some disposables available isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as long as you aren't using one for every shower.
Lastly, even though you’re the only one that's going to see it, there’s plenty of caps out there with fun and charming patterns. So, while you might feel a bit silly wearing a plastic bag on your head, one with cute polka dots or patterned flamingos might lighten your mood.
Of course, these patters are reserved strictly for reusable caps, and when it comes to disposables you can expect them to be either see-through or plain black. That said, if they’re in the bin before you leave the bathroom, no-one is ever going to know anyway.
£18.99
If we were buying a shower cap, it's safe to say it would be this one. When it comes to practicality, this cap has a large size which should comfortably fit most heads and hairstyles. It's crafted from triple-layer 100% waterproof PEVA and even comes with a plush terry cloth lining. Plus, it's completely reusable!
Although we've opted for the black and white polka dots, there are 7 other options to choose from with different colours and designs. So we're confident you'll find one to match your style.
£23.77
This option from Betty Dain has pretty much everything you could want. It has practical features, such as a waterproof nylon outer layer and a cosy terry cloth lining, combined with a fashionable leopard print design.
We do have some qualms about the lack of accurate measurements. That said, it's supposedly oversized to fit all lengths of hair. It may be a gamble if you've got an especially big mop, but it is very cool.
£6.99
Here is our top pick when it comes to disposable shower caps. Although they have largely the same characteristics as the other options lower on the list, there is one thing that sets this pack of 100 caps apart.
If you're looking for a reliable bulk pack, you can't go wrong. The company that produces these shower caps has over 1,000 positive reviews. And from our experience, if you can gain this amount of indisputable feedback, you've got to be on to a winner!
£1.97
There are three factors we love about this shower cap. Firstly, it's massive, so it's ideal for those with long, thick curly or coily hair. Secondly, it's one of our cheapest options coming in just under £2. And finally, it's reusable. Talk about a bargain!
There's nothing special in the terms of design. However, what it lacks in frills, this shower cap makes up for in practicality and comfort.
£10.79
EcoTools are known for creating bath accessories that not only aid in your daily routine, but ensure the environment doesn't suffer in the process. One such product is this shower cap, which is made from recycled plastic with a cotton lining for additional shower safety.
On top of this, we really like the stylish design. The graphics remind us slightly of the great British artist David Hockney, particularly how he paints swimming pools with bold lines.
£3.99
With a large 44 cm diameter, these disposable caps are likely to fit most people unless you have very thick or curly hair. They're made from strong plastic and are robust and durable, so you'll be able to enjoy your shower without worrying about what's on your head.
As with other higher quality disposables, these can double as a versatile household item should you find yourself needing to temporarily transport some dirty football boots or carry out other mucky tasks.
£3.69
The obvious selling point of this pack of shower caps is that you get three for less than the price of one. All three shower caps are completely reusable, so you can have one in each bathroom if you're so lucky, or keep one specifically for travel.
Each cap comes with a choice of different coloured polka dots, so you'll feel dainty no matter which one you decide to wear. However, they are quite small, so be careful if you have long hair as it might not all fit in.
£8.00
This cap from Argos brings a whole new meaning to the term bridal shower! Decorated with text "Miss to Mrs" this shower cap comes complete with a decorative veil. Plus, it's reusable, so you can continue to re-live your big day as many times as you like!
We have some reservations over the material though, as this is made from 100% polyester which is water-resistant, not waterproof. For that reason, this may be better as a novelty purchase, rather than something to be used when getting ready for the big day.
£4.75
If you fancy adding a bit of the tropics, and a bit of glamour to your shower, then this Flamingo design from Bodylife could do just the trick! More than just a pretty face, the cap is also dual-layered, with a PEVA inside coating for additional protection.
Coming in at 27cm, we imagine this will stretch to at least double this size, which should be more than enough for most adults. Although, some have commented that the frill layer can be slightly annoying, and it contributes little to the safety of your hair.
£6.99
Made from high-quality transparent plastic, these disposable shower caps are guaranteed not to tear during use. They come with a tight, elasticated opening, which will be perfect for children and most adult heads.
Be that as it may, the manufacturers say 'most' adult heads and then don't provide the measurements, which does raise concerns regarding their actual size. Still, if you have a smaller head size and are looking for a few disposables, they're of good quality overall.
Now that you've ticked shower caps off the list, we've got a few more bathing and haircare products to get you feeling squeaky clean! From the best body sponges, to conditioning masks and protective hair bonnets to help maintain luscious locks, click the links below for our recommendations!
So there you have it, our comprehensive guide to finding the best shower cap. We believe that if you follow the advice given in our buying guide, then picking up the right cap to protect you and your hairdo should be a no brainer. Here's to keeping it protected when you need to!
Author: Lewis Clark
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