The bonnet hair dryer, once a staple in 1950s salons, has recently experienced a surge in popularity. This hands-free design allows you to multitask while drying your hair – perfect for busy individuals who also enjoy reading or doing their makeup. Moreover, bonnet dryers are gentler on your locks than traditional blow-drying methods. The unique circulatory design ensures even air flow, reducing frizz and adding shine to your tresses.
When it comes to choosing a bonnet dryer, you’ll find a wide range of options available, from hard or soft bonnets, portable or stationary designs, to various price points. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your hair type. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 bonnet dryers on the market and highlighted their unique features.
From budget-friendly options to premium products, our curated selection includes something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a dryer that can keep up with your busy lifestyle, or one that specifically caters to your hair type, we’ve got you covered.
What Is a Bonnet Hair Dryer?
A bonnet hair dryer typically comprises a heat-resistant cap, often made from plastic or nylon materials, and a heating element. Soft bonnet designs feature a tube that connects to either a traditional hair dryer or a motor-powered unit controlling the heat, while hard bonnet models boast small holes in their caps allowing for efficient heat dissipation. The latter’s control panel is typically located at the base of a standing upright plastic support.
When activated, these dryers circulate warm air within the cap, providing indirect heat that is gentler on hair compared to traditional blow-dry methods. This innovative approach can significantly reduce frizz in curly styles and accelerate processing times for treatments like dyeing and deep conditioning. For further insights into the advantages of bonnet dryers, refer to our comprehensive guide.
Things to Consider in a Bonnet Hair Dryer
To find the perfect bonnet dryer for your needs, there are several factors to take into account. Firstly, consider your hair type. If you have long hair, look for a bonnet that can accommodate all of it without flattening or tangling. If you use rollers regularly, ensure the bonnet is large enough to fit them underneath. For example, we recommend the Conair Soft Bonnet Dryer for roller styles.
Additionally, check out our guide on finding your hair type and learn more about how different types of hair require different approaches. When it comes to the type of bonnet dryer itself, there are two main categories: hard and soft bonnets. Hard bonnets, like Nova’s Professional Hooded Bonnet Dryer, are typically found in salons and professional environments where they’re used to dry very long hair or apply treatments.
Soft bonnets, on the other hand, have a heat-proof and sometimes water-proof hood, making them perfect for drying hair in rollers or speeding up the drying process. For example, Granteva’s Soft Bonnet Dryer has a waterproof hood. Another crucial factor is affordability. Bonnet dryers can range from budget-friendly to premium-priced, depending on the style of dryer and any included accessories. Consider your budget before making a purchase. Finally, don’t forget about portability.
Modern bonnet dryers are surprisingly versatile, acting as hair dryer attachments that allow you to dry your hair anywhere your hair dryer plugs in. You can also find hard bonnets that fold up for storage – our top pick, the Conair Hard Bonnet Dryer, is a great example of this. If you’re looking for an attachment-style bonnet dryer, be sure to pair it with one of the best hair dryers on the market.
Top 10 Best Bonnet Hair Dryers 2024
Best Overall Bonnet Dryer: Elegantly Soft Hood Bonnet Dryer
The Elegantly soft bonnet dryer stands out as one of the top models on the market, offering versatility and affordability. Its adaptability to all hair types and styles makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a simple solution for drying their locks.
At its core, this dryer features a heat-proof material construction and a 3.5ft long hose that enables effortless movement and multitasking while your hair dries.
Additionally, the inclusion of a cloth headband offers protection for your scalp and ears from excessive heat.
What’s more, the manufacturer provides access to a free ebook filled with instructions on proper usage and styling tips applicable to various hair types – an invaluable resource for beginners or those looking to refine their bonnet drying skills. However, users should exercise caution when utilizing this dryer at high settings, as it can potentially damage your hair dryer.
Before getting started, be sure to thoroughly review the instructions and confirm compatibility with your hair dryer. For those seeking an alternative, the Andis Ionic Professional dryer is worth exploring.
Best Premium Bonnet Dryer: Nova Professional Hooded Bonnet Dryer
The Nova Professional Bonnet dryer is a prized possession for any hair enthusiast seeking salon-quality styles from the comfort of their own home. Its premium features make it an ideal tool for achieving top-notch hairstyles, including those that require deep conditioning treatments or hair dye applications. The device’s circular design and enclosed door work in harmony to surround your head with heat, rapidly drying your locks without compromising on style.
When used at home, the Nova Bonnet Dryer is particularly useful for individuals who enjoy DIY hair care routines, as it allows them to speed up processing times while maintaining a sleek, salon-like finish. With its adjustable height and timer function, users can customize their experience and relax while the dryer does its magic.
However, it’s essential to note that this product requires around 30 minutes of preheating time before it reaches optimal temperature, making it less suitable for those seeking a quick fix. For faster heating options, consider the Hot Tools Soft Bonnet Dryer instead. The Nova Professional Bonnet dryer offers several pros, including its professional-grade design, adjustable height, and timer function.
On the other hand, its main con is the need for preheating time, which can be inconvenient for those in a hurry.
Best Budget Bonnet Dryer: Granteva Hood Bonnet Dryer
The Granteva Soft Bonnet Dryer is a surprise package that defies its budget-friendly price tag with exceptional quality, ease of use, and impressive styling capabilities. This soft bonnet dryer boasts a lightweight windbreaker material with strategically placed ventilation holes for enhanced airflow, ensuring efficient drying.
Its heating mechanism is quick to activate and distributes heat evenly across the hair, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable yet affordable bonnet dryer. The product’s water-resistance and washability only add to its appeal, as it suits short hair and natural hair types particularly well. The inflatable design leaves ample space for hair, providing a spacious area for air circulation that hastens drying time.
While the chin strap may be prone to detaching, attention to securing it when turning the dryer on prevents any accidents. A minor drawback, this can be mitigated by exploring alternative products like the Mifine Hood Bonnet Dryer with a more secure bonnet design. The Granteva Soft Bonnet Dryer’s pros include its ventilation holes for airflow, lightweight windbreaker material, and waterproof and washable features. However, it also has some cons, such as the elastic chin strap not holding well.
Best Bonnet Dryer for Travel: Mifine Hood Bonnet Dryer
The Mifine dryer is a convenient and versatile option for travelers and individuals who need a portable hair drying solution. Its standout features include an adjustable hose that can connect to almost any hair dryer, making it easy to use on-the-go. The dryer comes with a secure storage bag that doubles as a travel bag, allowing you to keep everything organized and tidy.
Additionally, the bonus portable makeup mirror included with the Mifine dryer enables users to touch up their look wherever they are. The adjustable chin straps feature buttons that can be easily tailored to fit any user, making it an excellent choice for families or individuals who need a dryer that can accommodate different head sizes.
While the Mifine dryer’s bonnet may be slightly too small for medium- to large-sized rollers, it is generally suitable for most users and offers several advantages over other portable dryers.
Best Hard Bonnet Dryer: Conair Pro Style Bonnet Dryer
The Conair Pro Style is an excellent alternative to the Nova Hooded Bonnet Dryer, offering a high-powered hard bonnet that’s more portable than its competitors. While it may not be as compact as some other options, the adjustable height and extra-large hood make it ideal for drying longer hair or using with rollers. This powerful dryer works quickly and can even be folded down for storage, allowing you to carry it around and place it on different counters.
However, keep in mind that it’s one of the louder dryers on the market due to its high-power and open bonnet design. For those seeking a quieter option, the Revlon Ionic Soft Dyer may be a better fit. Despite this drawback, the Conair Pro Style boasts several pros, including a flexible insulated hose for easy movement, great frizz control, and a strong storage case. However, it does have one notable con: it’s not ideal for deep conditioning treatments.
Best Bonnet Dryer for Rollers: Conair Soft Bonnet Dryer
The Conair Soft Bonnet Dryer stands out for its impressive versatility. Its extra-large bonnet accommodates any size rollers, perfect for curled styles, while the bonus hot air brush delivers salon-quality straight styles. Weighing in at a reasonable price point and featuring a long 6-foot power cord, this dryer is ideal for those who prioritize portability. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around your home as you style your hair.
With its high heat setting, this dryer can get quite hot, so be sure to test the temperature before using it on your locks. Although the Gold N Hot Soft Bonnet Dryer may not accommodate as large of rollers, it does offer a more adjustable temperature range. Overall, the Conair Soft Bonnet Dryer is a great choice for those who value versatility and are looking for a reliable dryer that can handle a variety of styling needs.
Best Frizz Control Bonnet Dryer: Andis Ionic Professional Bonnet Dryer
The Andis ionic bonnet dryer is a popular choice for reducing frizz and achieving soft, manageable hair. Its unique combination of ionic drying and even heat distribution makes it an excellent option for controlling frizz in all hair types. The dryer’s flexibility is further enhanced by its bendable, insulated hose that can be placed anywhere, allowing users to sit comfortably while their hair dries. Additionally, the included sturdy storage case keeps the bonnet and hose organized between uses.
While this dryer excels at regular drying, it may not be the best choice for deep conditioning or dye treatment, as the ionic heating doesn’t reach high enough temperatures to significantly speed up these processes. For those seeking a dryer that can handle such treatments, the Nova Professional Bonney Dryer is a better option. Overall, the Andis dryer’s pros include its flexible hose, great frizz control, and strong storage case, while its cons are its limitations in deep conditioning.
Best Bonnet Dryer for Thick Hair: Revlon Ionic Soft Bonnet Dryer
The Revlon Soft Bonnet Dryer stands out from its competitors with its quiet operation and adjustable fan speeds, making it an excellent choice for drying thick and natural hair types. The dryer’s ability to customize speed settings allows users to tailor their drying experience to their specific hair needs and treatments. For thicker and natural hair, the high-speed setting provides a thorough dry, while lower speeds produce a shiny, frizz-free finish for finer hair types.
What’s more, the motor runs relatively quietly, allowing users to engage in other activities like reading or watching TV without disturbance. However, one notable drawback is the dryer’s short hose, which limits its portability and makes it challenging to use in different rooms. This constraint may be a consideration for those seeking greater flexibility with their dryer.
Fastest-Drying Bonnet Dryer: Hot Tools Soft Bonnet Dryer
The Hot Tools Soft Bonnet Dryer stands out for its exceptional performance and portability. This fast-drying dryer boasts a higher fan speed and 800-watt power setting, which ensures that your hair is continuously treated to gentle warmth as it dries. The result is a sleek and shiny finish, perfect for styling on-the-go. Weighing in at [insert weight], this dryer comes with a convenient carry handle, making it easy to transport from room to room or take with you when traveling.
A one-year warranty adds an extra layer of security, giving you peace of mind as you style your hair. While the elastic bonnet has its drawbacks – it can be uncomfortable and may not accommodate larger rollers or longer hair – the overall benefits far outweigh the limitations. With its ability to add shine and smooth texture to your locks, this dryer is a great option for those seeking a reliable and portable styling tool.
Best Compact Bonnet Dryer: Gold N Hot Soft Bonnet Dryer
The Gold N Hot Soft Bonnet Dryer’s versatility is a major draw, thanks to its four adjustable temperature settings that cater to individual preferences and hair types. The comfortable, elasticized bonnet securely holds longer locks in place during drying, accommodating most roller sizes along the way. A notable feature is the dryer’s ability to produce soft, shiny results regardless of chosen temperature setting.
While the product excels in terms of performance, its hose design may not be ideal for those who plan to move around freely while styling or require a travel-friendly option. For users seeking greater portability, alternative dryers like the Mifine Hood Bonnet Dryer might be more suitable.
Your Complete Guide to Bonnet Hair Dryers
If you’re still curious about the advantages and applications of bonnet hair dryers, rest assured that we’ve prepared a comprehensive resource to address any lingering queries. As you delve into this guide, you’ll not only uncover the benefits of using these innovative devices but also gain valuable insights on determining your unique hair type and mastering expert-level hair drying techniques.
Finding the Right Bonnet Hair Dryer for Your Hair Type
To achieve the best hairstyle, it’s essential to understand your hair type. This knowledge will guide you in selecting products and creams that work harmoniously with your locks. Hair types can be broadly classified into four categories: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Type 1 hair is characterized by its straightness and shine. To style it effectively, you’ll need to use shape-defining products that help hold the hair in place.
Most general-purpose bonnet dryers can work well with this type of hair. Sub-types within Type 1 include thin, fine, soft hair (Type 1A), medium-textured hair with a bit more body and volume (Type 1B), and straight hair with a coarse texture that requires extra-strength products to maintain a style (Type 1C). Type 2 hair is wavy, featuring a subtle S pattern that falls between straight and curly hair. It has a slight shine and can be styled either straight or curly with relative ease.
However, it does frizz easily, making anti-frizz products like bonnet dryers with frizz control a valuable asset. Sub-types within Type 2 include finely textured hair that may be on the thin side (Type 2A), defined face-framing waves (Type 2B), and coarse-textured hair that tends to frizz (Type 2C). Type 3 hair features a tighter S-shaped pattern or loose coil pattern. It has a springy texture, tends to snap back into place when pulled, and may or may not have a visible shine.
Frizz is a common issue with this type of hair. Sub-types within Type 3 include loosely curled hair (Type 3A), which typically has the most natural shine among these sub-types; ranges from loose spirals and ringlets to tighter corkscrew curls (Type 3B); and tight, pencil-width curls that benefit from moisturizing products and defining creams (Type 3C). Lastly, Type 4 hair is characterized by very tight curl patterns.
Textures can range from fine and soft to coarse and wiry, with defined curls formed by a coily S shape or Z-shaped zigzag pattern. This type of hair requires a lot of moisturizing products and shrinks when wet. Sub-types within Type 4 include denser S-shaped curls that are still soft and pliable (Type 4A), the Z-shaped coil pattern found in denser, thicker hair (Type 4B); and very thick hair prone to breakage, where a leave-in conditioner is essential (Type 4C).
Benefits of a Bonnet Dryer
Bonnet dryers utilize indirect heat to dry your hair, differing significantly from traditional hair dryers that employ direct heat. Direct heat can cause long-term damage if used frequently, whereas indirect heat is applied around the head rather than directly to the hair. This unique design allows bonnet dryers to trap heat around your locks, preventing excessive moisture loss and damage.
Operating on low heat settings, these devices gently dry your hair without compromising its natural moisture balance or causing harm. Moreover, they offer greater convenience as you can style your hair while it dries, freeing up your hands for other activities like applying makeup or simply relaxing. In addition to drying your hair, bonnet dryers can be used for various styling purposes, such as curling your locks with rollers or aiding a deep conditioning treatment.
By significantly reducing the time required for air-drying, these devices can cut the average drying time from 2-3 hours down to around 10 minutes to an hour.
Can I Use a Bonnet Dryer Every Day?
While any amount of heat can cause harm to your locks, utilizing a bonnet dryer on low or medium heat settings is generally considered a safer and less damaging option for daily use. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution and avoid pushing the heat limits, as this could still compromise the integrity of your hair. It’s essential to maintain awareness of your hair’s condition and adjust your styling habits accordingly.
If you notice any signs of damage or dryness, consider taking a break from heat styling altogether and exploring alternative methods to revive your tresses.
How Long Does Bonnet Drying Take?
The drying time for your hair when using a bonnet dryer largely depends on the specific product you’re utilizing and the characteristics of your own locks. For instance, if you’re employing the Hot Tools Bonnet Dryer, your hair may dry within 30 minutes, whereas a lower heat setting, such as the Andis Ionic Dryer, could result in an hour-long drying process.
When styling with rollers beneath the bonnet dryer, it’s recommended to leave your hair for 20-30 minutes (the Conair Soft Bonnet Dryer is a great option for this technique). If you’re deep conditioning, you’ll typically spend between 15 and 30 minutes under the dryer. In general, it’s best to stay under the dryer until your hair reaches around 70-80% dryness, as this helps prevent frizz and maintain bounce and shine throughout the drying process.
On average, the drying time can range from 10 to 45 minutes, depending on your hair type and thickness.
How to Tell If Your Hair Is Damaged
When using heat styling tools like curlers and hair dryers, it’s crucial to be mindful of the potential damage they can cause. Repeatedly exposing your locks to excess heat can lead to burned strands and destruction of the hair fiber over time, resulting in dull, lifeless hair. If you’re concerned about the health of your hair but want concrete evidence, there are a few simple tests you can perform. To get started, take a small strand of hair and grasp it between two fingers.
Gently pull it apart to assess its elasticity. Healthy hair will stretch out before snapping back into place when released. On the other hand, damaged locks may either break off or remain stretched without returning to their original length. Another indicator of damage is the ‘split end test.’ Separate an inch-wide section of your hair and run your fingers down it. In healthy hair, the surface should feel smooth all the way through.
If you notice unevenness, snapping, or excessive dryness along the length, it’s likely a sign that your hair has suffered some degree of damage.
Deep Conditioning Treatments and You
Deep conditioning treatments are a popular hair care method that can be a bit mysterious to those who haven’t tried them. But don’t worry, we’re here to demystify the process and give you the lowdown on what these treatments can do for your locks. There are two main types of deep conditioning treatments: protein-based and moisturizing. While both can provide amazing benefits, they cater to different hair needs.
Protein-based treatments are ideal for strengthening damaged or over-processed hair, while moisturizing treatments are perfect for hydrating dry and brittle strands. To get the most out of your treatment, apply it after shampooing your hair. This allows the nutrients in the treatment to absorb fully into your follicles. Focus on the ends and areas prone to breakage, working the treatment through with a wide-toothed comb if possible.
Heat can also enhance the benefits, so consider using a bonnet dryer or even just a plastic cap to contain the heat from your scalp. When it’s time to wash out the treatment, be sure to do so thoroughly before styling and drying your hair. Just remember not to overdo it – for very damaged hair, you may need to use deep conditioning treatments every two weeks, while regular maintenance can happen once a month. Finally, consider your curl type when choosing a treatment.
For loose curls or kinky coils, shea butter is a great option that will deeply moisturize without weighing your hair down. If you have wavy or straight hair, coconut oil is a lightweight and nourishing choice that will leave your locks feeling silky smooth.
Pro Tips for Hair Drying
When it comes to styling your hair with heat tools, always use a heat protectant, regardless of whether you’re using a bonnet dryer or other devices. Additionally, if you plan on applying a lot of heat to your locks, be sure to use moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in creams to keep your tresses healthy. For optimal results when using rollers, divide your hair into smaller sections before rolling it up.
This will ensure that each section dries evenly, resulting in a perfectly coiffed hairstyle. Finally, remember to always start with slightly damp or air-dried hair when using heat styling tools. Applying heat to soaking wet hair can cause damage and burning on the outer layers of your locks. Instead, let your hair lightly dry before blow drying it.
Discovering the Best Bonnet Dryer for You
Selecting the ideal bonnet dryer can be an overwhelming experience, given the numerous factors to consider. Your hair type, personal style, and budget all play a crucial role in determining which dryer best suits your lifestyle. While our previous list has provided valuable insights, the final step is to make a purchase that aligns with your preferences. With this in mind, you’ll be well on your way to achieving salon-quality hair at home, effortlessly.
