From buckets to ball caps, summer hats keep you shaded, shielded, and stylish. But you don’t need to put on your thinking cap to realize they can quickly lose their charm — becoming dirty and sweat-stained — while providing protection against the sun’s harsh rays. So, whether you’re chilling by the ocean or strolling downtown, frequent care and maintenance are crucial to keep this essential accessory looking fresh and fashionable. Let’s delve into the best methods for washing various types of summer hats, ensuring you can flaunt your favorite headgear for many summers to come.
How to Wash Ball Caps
Whether you’re working in the yard, catching a baseball game or going grocery shopping, ball caps are a casual summertime staple. In fact, it’s such an everyday accessory, you may not even think about washing it, but like any article of clothing, your cap needs to be cleaned from time to time, too. Here’s what to do:
Choose an eco-friendly detergent: If you haven’t already, have you considered switching from traditional detergents to an eco-friendly alternative? At SaltyLama, we’re thrilled our plant-based laundry detergent sheets are helping the environment and making people’s lives easier and safer. Whether you’re tired of lugging around your laundry detergent jug, cleaning up the sticky, chemical mess that’s left behind or finding space for it on your already-crowded shelf, SaltyLama saves you from all that. Our hypoallergenic sheets are perfect for people with allergies or sensitive skin — plus, our zero-plastics packaging is biodegradable and compostable.
Pre-treat stains: Start by dissolving a SaltyLama eco-friendly laundry detergent sheet in water, then applying a small amount of the mixture directly to any visible stains. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grime.
Hand wash: Once that’s done, fill a basin with cool water and detergent. Submerge the ball cap and gently scrub it with a soft brush, focusing on the sweatband and any dirty spots.
Note: You can wash many baseball caps in a washing machine, especially if they’re made from common materials like cotton or polyester. We recommend using cold or cool water on a gentle cycle.
Rinse and dry: If you are handwashing, rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap residue. Reshape the hat and air dry it on a towel, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
How to Wash Straw Hats
Straw hats are the perfect hat look for any tropical getaway. But thanks to their delicate material, they require extra care to wash and maintain.
Dust removal: Use a soft bristle brush to gently remove dust and debris from the surface of the hat.
Spot clean: Due to its natural material, it’s not a good idea to fully submerge your straw summer hat. Instead, create a cleaning solution with detergent and water. Dampen a cloth with the solution and carefully wipe down the straw hat, avoiding over-saturation.
Note: Avoid getting the straw too wet, as it can warp and become misshapen.
Dry properly: Allow the hat to air dry completely before using it again. This will help it remain in its proper shape.
How to Clean Mesh Hats
Mesh hats are known for their breathable design, so they’re an easy choice for any outdoorsy person who is headed out and about on a hot summer’s day. Follow along for the best way to wash this type of summer hat:
Gentle hand wash: Fill a basin or bowl with cool water and dissolve in a SaltyLama laundry detergent sheet. Submerge the mesh hat and gently scrub the mesh sections with a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and sweat.
Rinse and dry: Rinse the hat thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains. Allow it to air dry on a towel, making sure it is reshaped properly before letting it dry completely.
How to Wash Bucket Hats
This ’90s trend is back, meaning many of us will be rockin’ a bucket hat this summer. To keep it pristine, follow these tips to properly wash it:
Machine wash (if allowed): Check the care label first as bucket hats can be made from many types of fabrics. However, most are made from a heavy-duty cotton like canvas. If the hat is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild, eco-friendly detergent.
Hand wash: If the hat is not machine washable, no problem! Use the same method as for ball caps. Submerge the hat in a mixture of cool water and a dissolved SaltyLama laundry detergent sheet and gently scrub.
Dry properly: Air dry the hat, reshaping it as necessary to maintain its form.
General Tips for Summer Hat Care
Aside from these specific instructions, here are a few summertime laundry tips to keep your hats in the best shape for many more seasons to come.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Always opt for a mild, sustainable detergent such as SaltyLama eco-friendly sheets to prevent damage to the material. Many traditional detergents use harsh ingredients that can harm both the planet and human health.
- Maintain the shape: You should also reshape hats while they are drying to ensure they retain their original form. Otherwise, you can end up with odd bends and a tighter fit.
- Engage in regular spot cleaning: Make cleaning your hats part of your routine to prevent the buildup of sweat, dirt, and oils, which can lead to stains and odors over time.
By following these easy, effective techniques, you can ensure your summer hats remain stylish and functional throughout the season. Remember, a well-maintained hat not only enhances your look but protects you against the sun. And whether it’s a straw hat or a cotton cap, proper cleaning and maintenance are key to complementing your summer wardrobe. So, enjoy this season with headgear that looks as good as new.