Yes, you can wash some hats in the washing machine, but it depends on the type of hat and its material.
Here’s a simple table illustrating the different types of hats can typically be washed in a washing machine and why:
| Type of Hat | Can be Washed in a Washing Machine? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball cap (cotton) | Yes | The durable material of a cotton baseball cap can usually withstand a gentle machine wash. |
| Baseball cap (wool) | No | Wool is a delicate fabric that can shrink and distort in the machine. |
| Beanie (acrylic, cotton) | Yes | These materials can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle. |
| Beanie (wool) | No | Wool is a delicate fabric that can shrink and distort in the machine. |
| Straw hat | No | The delicate straw material can be damaged in the machine. It’s better to spot clean. |
| Fedora (felt) | No | Felt can lose its shape and shrink in the machine. It’s typically spot cleaned or professionally cleaned. |
| Trucker hat (synthetic) | Yes | Most synthetic materials can withstand a gentle machine wash. |
| Sun hat (fabric) | Yes (check care label) | Fabric sun hats may be machine washable, but it’s best to check the care label as some may require hand washing. |
| Sun hat (straw) | No | The delicate straw material can be damaged in the machine. It’s better to spot clean. |
Dos and don’ts of washing a hat in the washing machine
Dos
- Do read the care label: Always check the label for washing and drying instructions. Not all hats can be machine washed, and some may require specific cleaning methods.
- Do use a gentle cycle: If machine washing is acceptable, use a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent potential damage to the hat’s shape and fabric.
- Do protect the hat: Place the hat in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to provide protection from the agitation of the machine.
- Do spot clean when necessary: If the hat is not too dirty, consider spot cleaning with a cloth, mild detergent, and cold water.
- Do reshape the hat after washing: To maintain its shape, gently reshape the hat after washing.
- Do air dry the hat: After washing, let the hat air dry on a clean towel or over a round object to help it maintain its shape. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can cause the hat to shrink or become misshapen.
Don’ts
- Don’t ignore the care label: If the label says “hand wash only” or “do not wash,” follow those instructions.
- Don’t use hot water: Hot water can cause certain materials, like wool, to shrink. Always use cold water when washing hats.
- Don’t machine wash delicate materials: Hats made from materials like wool, straw, or felt, or those with delicate decorations, should not be machine washed.
- Don’t use harsh detergents: Avoid using harsh detergents as they can damage the hat’s material.
- Don’t wring out the hat: Wringing the hat can distort its shape. Instead, gently press it with a towel to remove excess water.
- Don’t use a dryer: The high heat from a dryer can cause the hat to shrink or become misshapen. Always air dry hats after washing.
5-step guide to washing hats in the washing machine
Step 1
Check the care label: Look for washing instructions on the hat’s care label. If it says “hand wash only” or “do not wash,” follow those instructions.
Step 2
Material: Hats made of cotton, polyester, and other machine-washable materials can usually be washed in the washing machine. However, wool hats or hats with delicate decorations should be hand washed.
Step 3
Use a gentle cycle: If you decide to wash your hat in the washing machine, choose a gentle cycle with cold water. This will help prevent damage to the hat’s shape and fabric.
Step 4
Protect the hat: To prevent the hat from getting damaged, you can put it in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase before placing it in the washing machine. This will provide some protection from the agitation of the machine.
Step 5
Reshape and air dry: After washing, gently reshape the hat and let it air dry. Do not put it in the dryer, as the heat can cause the hat to shrink or become misshapen. You can use a clean towel to absorb excess water and then place the hat on a clean, flat surface or over a round object like a bowl or balloon to help it maintain its shape as it dries.
READ NEXT: Can you wash baseball caps in the washing machine?
FAQs
Can all hats be washed in the washing machine?
No, not all hats are suitable for machine washing. Always check the hat’s care label first. Hats made of durable materials like cotton or polyester may be machine washable, while others, like those made of wool, felt, or straw, may require hand washing or professional cleaning.
How can I protect my hat in the washing machine?
One way to protect your hat in the washing machine is by placing it inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase. This can provide some protection from the agitation of the machine. Also, using a gentle cycle with cold water can help prevent damage.
What type of detergent should I use when washing my hat in the machine?
A mild detergent is usually best for washing hats. Avoid using bleach or other harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage the hat’s material.
Can I dry my hat in the dryer after washing it in the machine?
It’s generally best to air dry hats after washing. The heat from a dryer can cause a hat to shrink or become misshapen. After washing, gently reshape the hat and let it air dry on a clean, flat surface or over a round object to maintain its shape.
My hat is only slightly dirty. Do I need to wash it in the machine?
For minor dirt or stains, consider spot cleaning your hat. You can do this with a cloth, some cold water, and a small amount of mild detergent. This can help prolong the life of your hat and prevent unnecessary wear from machine washing.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
Before you toss your hat into the washing machine, take a look at the care label. Some hats can handle a gentle cycle with cold water, but others, like those made of wool, felt, or straw, might need a gentler touch or even a professional cleaning. If you’re in the clear for a machine wash, consider tucking your hat into a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase to protect it from the machine’s tumbling.
Choose a mild detergent and skip the bleach or other harsh cleaners to keep your hat’s material safe. And when it comes to drying, it’s better to air dry your hat. The heat from a dryer can cause your hat to shrink or lose its shape. After washing, gently reshape your hat and let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
If your hat only has a bit of dirt or a small stain, spot cleaning might be all it needs. Use a soft cloth, some cold water, and a tiny bit of mild detergent. This way, your hat stays fresh and lasts longer.
Remember, the key is to treat your hat gently and respect the care label’s instructions. That way, your hat will keep looking its best for a long time.
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