How to Clean a Hat: Step-by-Step Guide

Hats collect sweat, oils, dust, and stains from daily wear. Regular cleaning keeps them looking fresh and prevents fabric breakdown. Before you start, check the care label inside the hat. If it says “dry clean only,” skip the water method and take it to a professional. For most cotton, polyester, or wool-blend hats, the hand-washing method below is safe and effective.

What You’ll Need

Lukewarm or cold water
Mild detergent (like Woolite or a drop of dish soap)
Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works)
Clean towel
Hat form or a bowl/can to maintain shape while drying
Optional: baking soda or white vinegar for tough odors

Step-by-Step

Pre-treat stains. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water. Dip the toothbrush in the solution and gently scrub any visible stains or heavily soiled areas (like the sweatband) before submerging the hat.
Fill a basin with cold water. Use a clean sink or bowl. Add a few drops of mild detergent and swish to create suds. Avoid hot water—it can shrink or warp the hat.
Submerge and soak. Place the hat in the water, pressing it down gently to saturate. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Do not leave it longer, as the fabric can weaken.
Scrub gently. Use the soft brush to clean the entire surface, paying extra attention to the sweatband and brim. Work in circular motions, but don’t scrub too hard—especially on wool or felt hats.
Rinse thoroughly. Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean cold water. Dip the hat up and down to remove all soap. Repeat if needed until the water runs clear.
Remove excess water. Press the hat gently between a clean towel—do not wring or twist. This can distort the shape.
Air-dry in shape. Place the hat on a hat form, or drape it over a clean bowl or can that matches the head size. Let it dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not use a dryer.

Common Mistakes

Using hot water – This can shrink the hat or cause colors to bleed.
Washing in a dishwasher or washing machine – The agitation can bend the brim and misshape the crown.
Scrubbing too aggressively – Especially on structured hats, this can fade or wear the fabric.
Drying with heat – A dryer or radiator will warp the hat and ruin the fit.
Ignoring the care label – Some hats (like those with cardboard brims) cannot be submerged at all.

Tips

Use a hat form or a rolled-up towel inside the crown to help it hold its shape while drying.
For stubborn odors, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the soak water, or rinse with a diluted white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water).
Clean your hat regularly—every few weeks if you wear it daily, especially in summer.
If the hat has a cardboard brim, avoid submerging it. Instead, spot-clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Store hats on a shelf or hook, not crushed in a drawer, to maintain their shape.

Troubleshooting

Hat is still stained after washing: Re-treat the stain with a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse. For grease stains, dab with a bit of dish soap before washing again.
Hat shrank a little: If it’s a cotton hat, you can try stretching it while damp by placing it on a slightly larger form. For wool, this is riskier—accept the size change and be gentler next time.
Brim is bent or misshapen: Steam the hat with a kettle (keep it a safe distance) and reshape with your hands, then let it dry on a form. For baseball caps, you can also use a hat shaper.
Colors bled: Unfortunately, this is permanent. To prevent it in the future, always wash in cold water and never soak for more than 10 minutes.
Hat smells musty after drying: This usually means it didn’t dry fully or was stored damp. Wash again and dry completely in a well-ventilated area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a hat in the dishwasher?

It’s not recommended. The dishwasher’s heat and detergent can warp the brim and damage the fabric. Hand washing is safer and just as easy.

How often should I clean my hat?

It depends on how often you wear it and how much you sweat. A good rule is every 2–4 weeks for regular wear, or sooner if it looks dirty or smells.

Can I use bleach to remove stains from a white hat?

Bleach can yellow or weaken the fabric. Instead, use a gentle oxygen-based cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water.

How do I clean a wool or felt hat?

These hats should be spot-cleaned with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Avoid soaking them in water. If they need a deep clean, consult a professional dry cleaner.

Can I speed up drying with a hairdryer?

No. Heat will shrink the fabric and distort the shape. Always air-dry at room temperature.

What if my hat has a leather band?

Leather should not be submerged. Clean it separately with a leather cleaner or a damp cloth, and avoid getting it too wet.

Sources: American Cleaning Institute. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.