2 Ways to Clean a Hat, According to Experts
Do you follow the time-honored tradition of washing a hat in the dishwasher? Well, if you do, I’ve got news for you: You’re probably ruining your hat. While you can technically wash a hat in the dishwasher, it’s not the best way to get it clean. I spoke to cleaning experts to find out how to clean a hat the right way — and it’s probably a lot easier than you think!
Below, find out how to deep clean a hat, plus, how to give it a quick clean when you’re in a pinch.
What You’ll Need to Deep Clean a Hat
- A bucket or clean empty sink
- Warm water
- Bleach-free laundry detergent or OxiClean
- Stain remover spray
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Towel
How to Deep Clean a Hat
Cleaning your hat shouldn’t take more than 10 to 15 minutes of physical work, unless it’s really a mess. Additionally, if you are working with a specialty fabric, like wool or leather, remember to get a cleaning solution that matches the type of hat you have.
With all that said, this is how Hailey Becnel of The Cleaning Channel deep cleans a hat.
Step 1: Fill a clean bucket or sink with warm water and detergent.
Fill up a bucket or clean and empty sink with warm water. As it fills up, add a small amount of bleach-free laundry detergent or OxiClean.
Step 2: Use a stain remover spray on any stains, if needed.
Follow the instructions on the stain remover spray bottle for directions and amount to use. Gently scrub the stain solution in with a soft brush or old toothbrush and let it sit for a few minutes.
Step 3: Soak your hat in the water.
Let your hat sit in the water and detergent combo for a few hours. Note that some experts, like those at promotional apparel and hat company The Monterey Company, do not suggest leaving the hat soaking in water because there’s a possibility the bill and sweatband could distort. If you’re concerned about that, skip this soaking step and instead scrub and rinse your hat a few times in cold water.
Step 4: Rinse.
Rinse the hat clean.
Step 5: Dry.
Pat the hat dry with a towel and let it air-dry the rest of the way.
What You’ll Need to Quickly Clean a Hat
- Stain remover spray
- Bleach-free laundry detergent
- Hat cleaning basket
How to Quickly Clean a Hat
If you really want to hand-wash your hat, go ahead. But why not use the washing machine instead? Becnel follows these steps.
Step 1: Pretreat stains, if needed.
Pretreat any stains on the hat with the stain remover spray. Follow the instructions on the spray and let the solution sit for a few minutes.
Step 2: Wash the hat.
Put the hat in the washing machine with some detergent. Use cool water and a gentle cycle.
Step 3: Air dry.
After it’s washed, air-dry your hat. If you need to dry it quickly, either use a blow-dryer or put it in the dryer on the lowest heat setting and minimal tumble. Look at the hat care instructions first to see if it is safe to put in a dryer. Check on it every few minutes.