Bend
United States · North America
The water
21 mg/LSoft
Source: City of Bend water FAQ (statement as reproduced at theflatbkny.com) · Published figure. Hardness counts dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water; it is the number your hair meets in the shower.
What soft water does to hair
Very little gets between your shampoo and your hair here: lather is easy, rinsing is clean and build-up barely features. Fine hair may go limp or flyaway, and heavy conditioning weighs it down faster.
The washing routine for Bend
Keep your normal rhythm; soft water asks for no detox routine. Go lighter on conditioner, which feels heavier in soft water, and if fine hair goes limp, reach for volume at the roots rather than more product through the lengths. A clarifying wash now and then is plenty.
Climate, from recent records (Open-Meteo, ERA5 2015-2024): July is the warmest month, averaging 30°C by day, and humidity peaks in January at about 74% on average. Day to night swings reach 18°C, which dries hair out between washes; the plan adds moisture and a sealing leave-in when a stop spans those months. In the hot months, sun and sweat do as much damage as the water: shade, a hat and a rinse after swimming carry the routine.
Local note: City states a typical range for its water sources of 0.99 to 1.46 grains per gallon and classifies the water as soft to slightly hard.
Plugs and power for your tools
Sockets: Type A and B. Supply: 120 V, 60 Hz.
Full sockets by the sink are standard (the National Electrical Code requires one within 3 feet of each basin, GFCI protected).
A dryer or styler wound for 230 V only will run weak on this supply, and a plug adapter does not change voltage. Check the label for dual voltage (100-240 V) before you travel.
Plug, voltage and frequency: IEC World Plugs and national standards.
Plan Bend properly
The trip planner turns this water profile into a wash plan for your hair type, a chosen kit and a packing list, month by month.