How to wash a baseball cap

Key steps 

• Use a good quality detergent.
• Use warm water, never hot.
• Spot clean stains with a soft-bristled brush.
• Rinse your cap thoroughly.
• Always allow your cap to air dry.
• Place a towel beneath your cap as it dries to prevent water damage to the surface.

Like any other item of clothing, baseball caps and snapbacks need regular washing – especially in the sweaty summer months. Here you can find a step-by-step guide for how to wash a snapback or baseball cap, as well as the dos and don’ts of doing so!  

Can you wash baseball caps? The dos and don’ts of how to clean a baseball cap

Before we provide a step-by-step guide for how to wash a baseball cap, we have a few dos and don’ts you need to know:

• DO handwash your cap. This will help you retain the colour and shape of your hat. For a quick clean, use a dry wash like one from Cleankit for instant freshness.
• DO let your cap air-dry on top of a container such as a jam or coffee jar to allow it to keep its shape.
• DON’T use the dishwasher. Despite the myth that the top rack is safe, dishwasher detergents often include bleach, plus the dishwasher uses a high heat. Both of these factors can damage the cap.
• DON’T use bleach. This can cause the colours in your cap to fade.
• DON’T use the washing machine or tumble dryer. This could lead to a change in your cap’s shape.

How to wash a cap: a 7 step guide for how to clean a snapbackor baseball cap

Here are seven easy steps for you to follow, which will show you how to clean a cap:

1. Fill a container such as a clean sink with warm water, ensuring it is not hot. 
2. Add a laundry detergent.
3. Spot-clean any stained areas. Using a clean toothbrush or soft-bristled brush and drop of detergent rub directly on the stain. Take care around areas of stitching to avoid causing damage.
4. Place the hat into your water and detergent filled container for up to two hours. Half way through the soaking stage, check on any stains and repeat step 3 if the fabric shows any stubborn stain remains.
5. Use warm water to rinse your baseball cap. Take care to remove all traces of soap.
6. When it comes to drying your hat, firstly allow your hat to drip dry removing initial excess water; placing a towel beneath to prevent water damage to counter tops or tables.
7. Next, use a towel to pat the hat dry and remove excess moisture. Always pat to ensure you retain the shape of the hat.
8. Place a jar such as a coffee or jam jar on a dry towel and place your hat on top. Leave it to dry overnight.