This is question that we have puzzled over for years to come to a conclusion that we feel comfortable sharing here and the general answer is: YES. However, it’s not a step that we would call absolutely necessary to your dreadlock journey, but it can help things along nicely if it’s one you choose to take.
Covering your dreadlocks at night primarily is important as it minimizes the occurrence of your dreadlocks taking in lint and fuzz from your bedding. Having removed dreadlocks that weren’t covered, we can tell you that the amount of lint they absorb is pretty surprising! That is our main reasoning for recommending it, but there are other benefits that many claim it may have as well.
As you may already know, the oil produced by the scalp (also called “sebum”) is important to keeping the hair and scalp healthy. When the hair is depleted, it is far more likely to break and, in the case of dreadlocks, be frizzy. Anytime you put your dreadlocks against a fabric that is absorbent (i.e. Your pillow case!) it will have a tendency to suck moisture out of your hair and potentially dry it out. It is believed by some that covering your dreadlocks will prevent the hair from getting dried out, and therefore, minimize frizz.
If you do choose to cover your locks at night, please remember that anything worn on your locks TOO tightly can actually create damage! (Do-rags are a HUGE no-no!) We recommend using something relatively loose which will still allow your locks to get plenty of movement and friction while you sleep at night which will speed along the locking process. We highly recommend Dreadsocks (available HERE) if you choose to cover your locks at night.
