Always sleep in a satin or silk bonnet or on a satin pillowcase. For long braids, loosely loop them on top of your head or in a low pineapple to avoid root tension.
Your night-time routine is the single biggest factor in how long your braids look fresh.
**The non-negotiables**
- A **satin or silk bonnet** that fully covers the braids without pulling. Cotton bonnets defeat the purpose.
- If you can''t stand bonnets, use a **satin or silk pillowcase** as backup — but a bonnet is better.
- Tie the bonnet with a satin scarf if it tends to slip off in your sleep.
**Positioning long braids**
- **Loose top knot.** Gather the braids and twist them into a loose bun on top of your head before bed.
- **Low pineapple.** Gather them in a loose, low ponytail with a satin scrunchie — easy on the edges.
- **Never** sleep with a tight elastic, claw clip, or metal hair tie.
**Extras worth doing**
- 2 to 3 nights a week, massage a light oil (jojoba, grapeseed, sweet almond) into the scalp before bonneting up.
- Re-do the front 2 to 3 braids and edges around week 4 to extend the install''s photo-ready window.
- If you sweat in your sleep, use a moisture-wicking bamboo pillowcase under the satin one.
A good bonnet costs 15 USD and can add 2 weeks to your install. It''s the highest-ROI accessory in protective styling.