With the right care, your hat will keep its shape, colour, and quality for years. Follow these simple tips to keep it looking its best.
Avoid crushing it
Always store your hat somewhere it can hold its shape — a shelf, hook, or hat stand works well. Hat blocks made from plastic or polystyrene are also great for maintaining structure. Don’t stack items on top of your hat. When it’s not being worn for long periods, store it clean inside a box, basket, or protective bag.
Keep it cool and dry
Heat and prolonged sun exposure can do real damage to hats. Avoid leaving your hat in hot places like the rear window of your car. Excess heat can warp brim wiring, while sunlight can dry out straw hats, leading to cracking and faster wear.
Cleaning dirt and marks
Always check the care label first and follow any instructions provided. If there’s no label, use the following general guidelines:
Hand-cleaning is best. Use cold water and a mild detergent.
Start by cleaning a small area first. Gently wipe away soap residue with a damp cloth, then allow the hat to air dry in a well-ventilated space.
Avoid drying in direct sunlight, as this may cause fading.
If the hat is heavily soiled and there’s no colour bleeding, you can soak it for up to 45 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.
For stubborn stains, apply a stain remover and leave it on for 5–10 minutes before rinsing.
If machine washing is permitted, place the hat inside a garment bag and wash on a cold, gentle cycle. Pre-treat any stained areas beforehand.
Removing dust and lint
For felt or dress hats, a lint brush works well to lift dust, fluff, and dirt. Brush both the inside and outside gently. Sticky tape can help reach creases or textured areas — simply wrap it around your fingers (sticky side out) and dab lightly.
