What is a Beard Bonnet?

Beard bonnet, beard bandana, beard durag, beard protector, it goes by many names, but it all more or less refers to the same thing.

A beard bonnet is a small piece of fabric worn over the head and tied at the chin, used to keep facial hair in place and protected.

Commonly used by men with large beards, the beard bonnet serves a utilitarian purpose for those who need to keep their whiskers clean, tidy, and out of the way.

Today, we’ll go over those reasons and how to wear a beard bonnet, and where to find one.

Prevent Beard Knots

The most common reason men wear a beard bonnet today is to protect their facial hair while they sleep. Beards can get tangled, knotted, or matted overnight, so putting on a beard bonnet can help keep them neat.

Plus, many of them have a super-soft silk-like lining that feels great on the skin and helps reduce irritation.

Enjoy Richer Conditioning

If you have exceptionally dry skin or brittle hair, you may find that wearing a beard bonnet while you condition your beard overnight can help the product penetrate deeper and work better.

Just apply your favorite conditioner before bed, put on the bonnet, and let it work its magic while you sleep. Then, in the morning, you’ll wake up with a softer, more hydrated beard skin underneath that fuzzy mane of yours.

Provides Sanitary Conditions While Cooking

chef putting a net on beard

Whether cooking at home or working in a professional kitchen, it’s important to keep your facial hair away from food. A beard bonnet can help you keep your beard contained and out of the way.

Some employers may require you to wear a beard bonnet while working in a kitchen. Even if they don’t, it’s always good to keep your beard covered while cooking to avoid any potential accidents. Additionally, the intense heat within a kitchen can be tough on your beard. Wearing a beard bonnet can help keep it from getting dried out or damaged.

Keeps Facial Hair Out of the Way When Eating

We’ve all been there…when eating a bowl of soup or a plate of spaghetti, our beards seem to have a mind of their own and end up getting food stuck in them. A beard bonnet can help prevent that by keeping your beard contained and out of the way while you eat.

It can also be helpful for those who are self-conscious about eating with a beard. Wearing a beard bonnet can help you feel more comfortable and confident while enjoying a meal.

Work Around Machinery? Consider a Beard Bonnet

A beard bonnet can help keep your facial hair from getting caught in equipment or machinery for those who work in industrial settings.

If your job requires you to wear a hard hat, a beard bonnet can also help keep your hair and beard from getting sweaty or tangled. Plus, it can provide an extra layer of protection from sparks, debris, or other potential dangers.

Other Scenarios

Depending on the length of your facial hair, a beard bonnet can also help keep it clean and dry while working out, playing sports, or doing other activities.

How Do Beard Bonnets Stay Put?

When shopping for beard bonnets, you’ll notice that they all have a closure system to help keep them in place.

diagram showing types of beard bandanas
Source: beardgains.com
  • Elastic Band: This is the most common type and will hook onto your ears. Allows for an easy on/off while also providing a snug, comfortable fit.
  • Drawstring: This type will have a string that ties around the back of your head and neck. Great for those with larger head sizes or beards.

Where Can you Find Beard Bonnets?

Given that these aren’t the most common type of beard care product, you may not find them in your local department store. But don’t worry; online stores such as Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy carry a wide variety of beard bonnets.

Here are a few to consider:

When shopping for a beard bonnet, be sure to look for one made from high-quality materials and has a closure system that will work well for you. You’ll also want to make sure it is large enough to fit over your entire beard and head.

Adam Williams

As the lead editor of Tools of Men, Adam loves men's grooming products. Particularly of interest is managing facial hair and perfecting the art of the modern man's skincare routine. His work has been featured or quoted in several publications, including New York Magazine, Vice, Sharpologist, MIC, Elite Daily, and more. When Adam isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his two little kids who keep him both on his toes and young at heart.

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