Washing
Use a clarifying, residue-free shampoo every 1 to 2 weeks. Dilute it, work it along the scalp rather than scrubbing the locs, and rinse until the water runs completely clear.
Drying matters as much as washing. Squeeze water out with a towel and let the locs dry fully — trapped moisture is the main cause of a musty smell.
Moisture without build-up
Light water-based sprays and a small amount of natural oil on the scalp are enough. Heavy creams, gels and wax sit inside the locs, attract dust and eventually force a clarifying treatment.
Night care and styling
Cover your locs with a satin scarf or bonnet at night to reduce friction and lint. Avoid pulling the hairline tight in ponytails and buns day after day.
Professional care
Book retightening every 4 to 6 weeks, and ask for a repair assessment if any loc feels thin at the root. Catching a weak loc early is far cheaper than rebuilding it later.