After seven years with dreadlocks, I’ve discovered products and tools that have become absolutely essential for my loc journey. In this post, you’ll learn which seven crucial items anyone with locs or starting their loc journey should consider.

Seven Things My Locs Cannot Live Without

1. Oils – Both Carrier and Essential

I use two types of oils for different purposes. Carrier oils like castor oil, coconut oil, and grapeseed oil are amazing for hot oil treatments and nourishing my scalp. I don’t apply these directly to my locs as they’re too thick, but I use them occasionally on my scalp.

Extra virgin castor oil is my top recommendation for promoting hair growth, especially around the crown. I always choose the amber glass bottle version, never plastic. Since it’s extremely thick, I only use a tiny amount, sometimes diluting it with lighter oils like grapeseed or jojoba.

I exclusively apply these the night before washing my hair, massaging them into my scalp, sometimes with a hot towel, and then I wear a shower cap overnight to ensure the oil stays on my scalp and doesn’t stain my bedsheets.

For daily use, I love essential oils in my moisturizing spray. Rosemary essential oil is fantastic for hair growth, eucalyptus smells amazing, tea tree is antibacterial and helps prevent lice, and lavender not only smells wonderful but has beneficial properties for hair health.

Get my favorite DIY moisturizer spray recipes here!

2. Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo

I absolutely swear by Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo. It’s water-based, washes off easily, and leaves my hair smelling amazing while making my scalp feel incredible. I dilute about three tablespoons with a cup or cup and a half of water in an empty bottle, then focus on lathering my scalp and roots, letting the remainder naturally flow through my locs. Sometimes I add essential oils for extra benefits.

I used to love Trader Joe’s shampoo bar for traveling, but sadly they discontinued it. I’m still testing out a few alternatives and will report back once I have picked a new favorite.

3. Silk Bonnet

A silk bonnet or sleeping cap is absolutely essential. It reduces frizz, prevents my locs from absorbing lint from bed sheets and minimizes friction that could cause breakage. I started with a smaller bonnet when my locs were shorter and now use a double-lined silk one.

While it’s not the sexiest sleepwear, I can’t live without it. If you prefer something more attractive, you might consider a silk pillowcase instead.

4. Crochet Needle

My 0.75mm crochet needle (though 0.5mm would be ideal) has become indispensable. When I’m just relaxing and notice frizz, I’ll occasionally tuck in those loose hairs.

I’ll admit something that might be controversial – I also gently use it to remove lint from the surface of my locs when I spot it. I never go deep into the loc as that could cause damage, but surface lint drives me crazy, and the needle is more precise than fingernails for removing it while allowing me to tuck loose hairs back in.

5. Microfiber Towel

Don’t confuse these with the thicker auto-detailing versions – I recommend the very thin, lint-free microfiber towels available online. I’ve gone through several as my hair has grown longer.

They’re lightweight, highly absorbent, and most importantly, don’t leave lint in my locs. After washing, I leave this towel on for about an hour to absorb excess water before air drying. Never use regular towels on locs unless you want lint problems!

6. Spray Bottle and Oil Dropper

A continuous spray bottle is worth investing in rather than cheap alternatives that malfunction. Mine cost about $4 and has lasted nearly two years. I use it daily for my water and essential oil mixture to moisturize my locs.

For carrier oils, a small glass amber dropper bottle is perfect, especially when traveling. I put a few drops on my fingertips and apply them directly to my scalp when needed.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

This is incredible for scalp health – it restores shine, balances pH, prevents itchiness, and neutralizes the scalp.

At home, I use the liquid version diluted (about a tablespoon to a cup of water) as a rinse after washing.

When traveling, I use the powdered version (about half a tablespoon or a teaspoon mixed with warm water).

One important note: apple cider vinegar has slight detangling properties, so if your locs aren’t mature yet, use it sparingly – maybe once a month or every other wash – to avoid hindering the locking process.

These seven products have been game-changers for my loc journey, and I can’t imagine maintaining healthy, beautiful locs without them. I hope they’ll benefit your locks as much as they’ve benefited mine!

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