Caring for Many Hat Styles

Throughout all the wear and weather your favorite hat is bound to get a bit dirty. How you clean your hat depends upon the material and the hat construction. Here are some guidelines that will help to get your hat looking spiffy. Remember it's always best to treat stains as soon as possible. The longer you wait the more difficult it is to remove the stain.

Wool Felt Hats

To keep the body of wool felt hats looking their best, use a soft bristle brush to remove dust and lint. Work around the hat slowly, brushing with the nap of the fabric.

To remove oily stains from hair products, lotion or body oils, sprinkle the stained area with cornstarch or talcum powder. Allow the powder to sit for several hours and then brush away with a soft brush. Do not use liquid cleaners on felted hats.

You can use steam from a tea kettle or fabric steamer to reshape a hat if it has been crushed. Hold the hat crown over the steam, then recreate the pinch or smooth out any creases with your hands.

Natural and Synthetic Fiber Cloth Caps and Hats, as well as Knit Hats

All of these hats can be hand washed using a gentle detergent designed for wool. First fill a sink with cool water and add a small amount of the detergent. Submerge the cap and allow it to soak for five to ten minutes. Swish the hat around, being careful not to wring it, and then rinse well until no suds are seen.

Place the hat on a thick cotton towel and blot away as much moisture as possible – do not wring. Air-dry the hat on a ventilated rack, away from direct heat or sunlight.