Tips to Keep Your Hats Looking New

Whether it’s a small smudge, a dent, or everyday wear, it’s never a good feeling when your favorite hat starts showing signs of use. The good news is that most common hat issues are easy to fix with proper care.

With a few simple habits, you can extend the life of your hat and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Store Your Hat Properly

Always store your hat in a cool, dry place. Heat and moisture can cause hats to lose their shape or become dirty. Avoid leaving hats in hot vehicles or damp environments.

When storing your hat, place it upside down, resting on the crown. Storing a hat on its brim for long periods can cause the brim to flatten or warp.

Clean Felt Hats with Hat Cleaning Foam

Hat cleaning foam is designed to remove common stains like perspiration and fingerprints from felt hats. Apply the foam directly to the affected area, allow it to dry completely, and gently brush it away.

This method lifts stains without soaking the felt or damaging the hat’s finish.

Steam Out Minor Dents

Minor dents and shape issues can often be corrected with light steam. A handheld garment steamer works well for this.

Apply steam in short bursts, gently reshape the area, and allow the hat to cool fully before wearing. This method works best on felt hats and can also be effective on lacquered straw hats.

Use a Hat Cleaning Sponge

A hat cleaning sponge is a simple way to remove surface marks from felt hats. Gently brush the area from front to back rather than scrubbing.

Use separate sponges for light and dark hats to avoid color transfer. Rinse the sponge with water after use and allow it to dry before storing.

Refresh with a Lint Roller

A lint roller is an easy way to remove dust, lint, and pet hair from felt hats. It’s quick, gentle, and great for routine upkeep.

Adjust Fit with Hat Sizing Tape

Over time, hats may loosen slightly with wear. Hat sizing tape can be used to improve the fit of both straw and felt hats.

Sizing tape is an affordable way to keep your hat comfortable and secure without permanent alterations.

The Bottom Line

Proper storage, gentle cleaning, and simple maintenance can go a long way in preserving your hat. With the right care, your favorite hat can stay looking great season after season.