5 Major Mistakes in Hat Cleaning and the Correct Methods

Hats have become an essential part of our daily lives, serving both as protection and as accessories that reflect our style. Some of us go for a simple baseball cap aiming for sporty chic, while others prefer a cool trucker hat or a classic casket hat. Some of us also love hiphop hats that complete a street style that stand out with their soft lines. Regardless of the model, hats that are not regularly maintained can quickly lose their shape and appeal. In this article, titled “5 Major Mistakes in Hat Cleaning and the Correct Methods,” we will take a look at the most common cleaning mistakes encountered in daily life and share the right approach for each.

After reading this guide, whether you have a RustandRich explorer (safari) hat or your favorite docker hat model, you’ll have the know-how to keep all your hats looking as good as new. So, what mistakes in hat cleaning shorten their lifespan or distort their shape? Let’s find out together.

Why Is Proper Cleaning Important?

Hats are exposed to many factors such as sweat, dust, sunlight, and weather conditions. Therefore, regular maintenance is extremely important for hygiene, appearance, and maintaining the integrity of the material. By using the right method, you can ensure your hat lasts a long time without fading in color, coming apart at the seams, or developing creased brims. However, cleaning or storage methods performed without proper knowledge can shorten the lifespan of your beloved accessory.

In this article, we’ll discuss five of the most common mistakes in hat cleaning. If you’re wondering, “How should I wash it?”, “Can I wash it in a machine?”, “Why do white hats turn yellow?”—you’re in the right place. Let’s begin!

Washing with the Wrong Machine Settings

Mistake: Washing Every Hat in a Machine

Many people think tossing their hats into the washing machine is an easy way to save time. However, this is a big risk, especially for baseball caps or trucker hats with stiff brims. A machine spinning at a high speed can distort the hat’s shape, loosen the seams, and even cause the colors to fade or the fabric to shrink.

The Right Way: Gentle Hand Washing or Special Machine Settings

• Check Washing Instructions: Brands like RustandRich include cleaning recommendations on their labels or product boxes. Always consult these first.

• Hand Washing: Use lukewarm water with a mild detergent or soap to gently clean your hat. Take care not to scrub the brim too harshly; remove dirt with a soft cloth.

• Special Cycle in the Machine: If you must use a machine, choose the lowest spin cycle with cold water. Using a protective laundry bag can help minimize loss of shape.

Scrubbing Too Hard with a Stiff Brush

Mistake: Applying Force on Stubborn Stains

The yellowing of sweatbands or stains on the outer surface can test anyone’s patience. Especially with a white bucket hat or a light-colored casket hat, stains are even more noticeable. As a result, some people use coarse-bristled brushes and apply pressure to remove the stains. Unfortunately, this method can damage the fabric fibers, leading to wear or fuzz.

The Right Way: Gentle Brushing with the Correct Cleaner

• Use a Soft Brush or Cloth: Choose a cleaning brush suitable for fabric or use a microfiber cloth. Use gentle circular motions to remove the stain.

• Pre-Treat: For tough stains, first apply a bit of soap or stain remover to the stain and wait a few minutes before gently cleaning.

• Drying: Don’t wring out your hat excessively to remove water. Allow it to air dry naturally. Otherwise, its shape may become distorted.

Drying Directly in the Sun

Mistake: Relying on the Sun for “Faster” Drying

Especially in summer, a common practice is to leave a hat in direct sunlight, thinking, “I’ll put it on the balcony, it’ll dry in five minutes.” However, intense sunlight can fade the hat’s color and weaken the fabric fibers. Even if a hiphop hat with leather details or a cotton docker hat dries quickly in the sun, it can still lose its shape.

The Right Way: Dry in the Shade at Room Temperature

• Flat Surface: Place your hat on a flat surface or on a suitable stand to maintain the shape of the brim and crown during drying.

• Airflow: In closed spaces, a slight breeze from a window can speed up drying. But don’t put the hat in front of a heater blowing hot air directly.

• Taking Your Time: Proper drying can take a little time. Don’t rush the process by placing the hat near heaters or out in the sun.

Treating All Materials the Same

Mistake: Failing to Differentiate Felt, Fabric, Leather, or Straw

Even though not all hats are made of the same material, using a one-size-fits-all approach to cleaning is a big risk. For example, a bakerboy hat may be primarily felt, while an explorer (safari) hat is generally made from materials more resistant to water and sunlight. Leather and straw require completely different care.

The Right Way: Tailored Approach to Each Material

Felt and Wool: Avoid hot water contact. Using a soft brush and a slightly damp cloth is ideal.

Cotton and Linen: Can be washed by hand or on a low machine cycle, but always read the product label.

Leather: Clean with a slightly damp cloth and special leather cleaners, dry immediately, and use moisturizing creams.

Straw: Excessive exposure to water can cause damage. Remove dust with a dry brush, and only use a damp cloth for persistent stains.

By paying attention to these differences, you minimize the risk of your hat losing its lifespan or aesthetic. RustandRich provides instructions that make it easy to find the proper cleaning methods for each type of material.

Folding or Squashing the Hat for Storage

Mistake: Shoving It Anywhere We Find Space

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we might simply stuff the hat into a bag or suitcase when we’re not wearing it. This can bend the edges, create cracks in the brim, or even leave deep creases. This issue is more commonly seen with models like trucker hats that have brims.

The Right Way: Proper Storage and Transport

• Hanger or Shelf: You can use a hanger system that supports the brim or crown of the hat. Some people install hat hooks on walls or behind doors.

• Shape Support: If you want to store the hat for a long time, place light paper or filler materials inside the hat to help it retain its shape.

• Box or Bag: A box is a good solution for protecting against dust. However, opt for a breathable fabric bag or a perforated plastic bag to prevent moisture build-up.

Additional Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

My Hat Has a Stubborn Odor. How Do I Remove It?

Especially in hot weather, hats can develop odors due to sweat. You can gently wipe the areas that smell with a mild vinegar-water mixture or a baking soda-water solution. Then be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow the hat to dry in the shade.

How Can I Preserve My RustandRich Hats for a Longer Time?

RustandRich designs its products to be long-lasting by using quality materials and meticulous stitching. Still, regular airing, using the correct cleaning method, and proper storage conditions will prolong the life of any hat model (like a bucket hat, docker hat, or casket hat).

What If the Brim Breaks or the Shape Becomes Distorted?

Some brims are reinforced with plastic or cardboard. If the deformation is not too severe, you can try gently reshaping it with the help of warm steam. However, if the breakage is serious, you may need to consult a professional tailor or hat maker.

In this article, where we discussed five major mistakes in hat cleaning and the correct methods, we examined many common pitfalls—from using the wrong machine settings to scrubbing too hard with stiff brushes, from drying in direct sunlight to cleaning different materials with the same approach. With the right approach, you can keep your favorite baseball cap or bakerboy hat model looking as good as new for years to come.

If you’re thinking of expanding your hat collection or completing your style with a quality product, check out RustandRich’s wide range of models right away. With the maintenance knowledge you’ve gained, you can confidently wear your new hat and walk with self-assurance in every season!