Hats are a sophisticated and versatile accessory. If you have one in your closet and you use it regularly, they have probably accumulated lint, a bad smell, and the occasional stain. As with many other accessories and some textiles, putting hats in the washing machine is not an option. Not even if you use a specific program for delicate clothes.
Therefore, you will have no choice but to wash your hats by hand to leave them impeccable, so that they do not lose color or shape or damage the fabric. Take good note of the step by step to leave your hats like new in a simple and effective way.
First, remove any removable accessories from the hat, such as bows, strings, or other decorations. If your hat has lint, you can remove it with a sticky roller, hand scraper, electric lint remover, or clothes brush. If you opt for the latter, make it new and use it exclusively for hats, with soft bristles, and use it being careful not to rub too hard.
On the inside of the hat, which is in contact with the hair and skin of the head, it is common for grease stains to appear from sweat, makeup, hair products or creams. To get rid of them, use a clean microfiber cloth and rub with pure alcohol.
Next, it’s time to clean the hat itself. Place it in a large container with cold water and a small amount of neutral detergent. With the help of your hands, carefully rub the entire surface of the hat, so that the soap can take effect. Make sure not to squeeze it or compromise its original shape.
If it has a localized stain, you can apply more soap or a little baking soda and rub gently with a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush. Baking soda will also be very effective in getting rid of bad odors.
Then rinse the hat well with cold water. You can press it carefully so that the water penetrates well, but remember not to rub or deform the hat. Finally, it is time to put it to dry, for which the dryer is obviously ruled out, as it would damage the material, color and shape of the hat.
Find a flat surface such as a clothesline or a table with a towel and place the hat straight on said surface, always respecting its original shape. Do not hang it, make sure it is not folded or with anything on it, as it could become deformed. You can insert a towel or other rolled cotton garment inside the hat to keep its shape. Let it air dry, but away from sunlight. Do not put it away or put it on until it is completely dry.
