Baseball caps are part of the many staple wardrobes today, especially for sports, casual outings, and the rest for personal style. Of course, the drawback of long-term usage is all the sweat, dirt, and grime accumulated on them-that can make it look dull, dirty. Let's find out what you're doing wrong when trying to clean a baseball cap but do not succeed in restoring its shape or fabric.
In this blog, you will be taking you through 7 simple and the best ways to clean baseball caps that will help your hats remain good-looking and clean over decades.
1. Read the Label on the Hat Regarding How to Wash
Before diving into any cleaning method, always refer to the care label inside your baseball cap. Different caps, especially higher-end or specialty ones, often have specific care instructions. Some fabrics or other additives may be sensitive to certain types of cleaning. Starting with the label will prevent avoidable damage and extend the life of your hat.
2. Use a Hat Brim Protector
If you are going to put your baseball cap in the washing machine, it would be useful to purchase a hat brim protector. These inexpensive tools help keep your cap's brim shape when washing it. If you do not use it, the brim may become flattened or even bent. Hat brim protectors are most often soft plastic or foam; you can find them wherever you shop for hat care products.
3. Spot Cleaning for Slight Grime
For minor stains or grime, the best way to approach is through spot cleaning. Gently scrub the affected areas with a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth. Pour a little mild detergent into water and then apply on the cloth. Rub it gently over the stained areas. This method is effective for everyday dirt and sweat marks without the need to fully wash the hat. Spot cleaning also helps maintain the cap’s structure, especially if it’s made from delicate materials.
4. Hand Wash Your Baseball Cap
If your cap needs a deeper clean but isn’t machine washable, hand washing or washing hats in washer is a great alternative. Fill a basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent preferably for delicate or wool. Soft-brush the hat while paying extra to the heavy staining areas or areas that are stained. Do not use harsh chemicals or bleach as they could damage the fabric and lighten it. Rinse the hat with clean water.
5. Washing Baseball Caps in the Machine
If your baseball cap's label allows machine washing, here are a couple of steps to ensure it remains in great condition:
- Turn the cap inside out - This protects the outer fabric and prevents the logo or stitching from getting damaged.
- Put it in a mesh laundry bag -The mesh bag will protect the hat from all the force of the washing machine, thereby reducing friction and keeping it in shape.
- Wash with a delicate or gentle cycle - Use cold water when washing the fabric. Hot water causes it to shrink or lose its color.
- Use mild detergent - Ensure that you use a detergent that has no chemicals. This allows the cap fabric to remain soft and the colors staying bright.
With these steps, you can safely put your hat in the washing machine without its outlook or feel changing.
6. Dry Your Baseball Cap Properly
Dry your baseball cap after washing appropriately to avoid damaging it. Never place your hat in a dryer as the heat can cause warping of the brim, and shrinkage of the fabric. Instead, follow the following drying procedures:
- Air dry flat on a towel - Lay your cap flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid letting the sunlight hit it directly since it can bring fading to colors.
- Use a hat form - If you want to keep the shape of the cap, you can use a hat form or place the cap over an object rounded such as a bowl or a balled-up towel to help keep its structure while it dries.
7. Look at Using a Hat Care Kit
A hat care kit can be a lifesaver for ongoing maintenance. These kits usually come with specialized cleaners, brushes, and protective sprays designed for hats. Some kits even have anti-yellowing sprays that prevent yellowing sweat stains from becoming permanent. Keeping your caps looking new and well-maintained is easy with a hat care kit.
Final Thoughts
