How to Clean and Care for Your Dad Hat: A Simple Guide

Quick Answer

To clean your dad hat without ruining it, hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent, then air dry it on a form or towel to preserve its shape. Avoid the washing machine and dryer, as they can cause shrinkage, fading, and misshaping.

Dad hats are a wardrobe staple for their relaxed fit and curved brim, but they can collect sweat, dirt, and oils from daily wear. Proper care keeps them looking clean and helps maintain their classic silhouette.

This guide walks you through the best way to wash a dad hat, from spot cleaning to deep washing, and shares tips to keep its shape intact. Whether you have a favorite BonBon Dad Hat or another cap, these steps work for most cotton and blended dad hats.

Why Hand Washing Beats the Machine

Most dad hats have a structured front and a curved brim, which can be easily bent or misshapen in a washing machine. The tumbling action can also cause colors to fade and fabrics to shrink, especially if the hat is made of cotton or has a cardboard or paper-based brim insert.

Hand washing gives you control over the process and is gentler on the fabric. It also allows you to target specific stains, like sweat marks around the band, without soaking the entire hat. This method is recommended for most dad hats, including those with embroidery or other decorative details.

• Check the care label: Some hats may have specific instructions or be made of materials that require dry cleaning.
• If your hat has a cardboard brim, avoid submerging the brim in water; spot clean it instead.

Gathering Your Supplies

You'll need a few basic items: a clean sink or basin, cool water, a mild detergent (like a gentle laundry soap or baby shampoo), a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush, and a clean towel. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the fabric and colors.

If your hat is particularly dirty, you might also want a stain remover that's safe for the fabric type. For sweat stains, a paste of baking soda and water can be applied directly to the affected area before washing.

• Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area of the hat first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration.

Drying and Reshaping

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water—never wring the hat, as this can distort its shape. Place the hat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up to absorb more moisture. Then, shape the hat by hand, paying attention to the crown and brim.

Air drying is the safest method. You can place the hat on a clean, dry towel or use a hat form or a similarly shaped object (like a small bowl or a rolled-up towel) to help it keep its shape while drying. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade colors, and never use a dryer.

If the brim gets bent, you can try to reshape it while it's damp and then let it dry in the correct position. For stubborn creases, you can use a steam iron on a low setting, but keep the iron away from any cardboard or paper inserts.

• Do not hang the hat to dry by the brim, as this can cause stretching or distortion.

Step-by-Step Dad Hat Cleaning Routine

1. Spot Clean First: Use a soft brush or cloth dipped in a mild soapy solution to gently scrub any visible stains, like dirt or sweat marks, before washing the whole hat. Checkpoint: Focus on the sweatband and any dirty areas; this step prevents stains from setting during the full wash.
2. Hand Wash in Cool Water: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the hat and gently swish it around for a few minutes. Use your fingers or a soft brush to clean the fabric, avoiding vigorous scrubbing. Checkpoint: Do not soak for more than 5-10 minutes to prevent colors from bleeding or fabric from weakening.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Rinse the hat by gently pressing water through it until no soap remains. Repeat if necessary. Checkpoint: Leftover soap can cause discoloration or attract dirt, so rinse until the water runs clear.
4. Remove Excess Water and Reshape: Gently squeeze out water without wringing. Place the hat on a dry towel, roll it up to absorb moisture, then unroll and shape the hat with your hands, restoring the crown and brim to their original form. Checkpoint: Reshaping while damp is key to keeping dad hat shape; do this before drying.
5. Air Dry on a Form: Place the hat on a clean, dry towel or a hat form (or a similarly shaped object) and let it air dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid using a dryer. Checkpoint: Check the hat after a few hours and adjust its shape if needed; it should be completely dry before wearing or storing.

Caring for Your BonBon Dad Hat

• BonBon Dad Hat: This classic dad-style cap features a comfortable fit and a curved brim, available in a variety of color combinations, including navy and pink, olive denim and pink, and light blue and pink. Knowing the color and material of your hat helps you choose the right cleaning method and avoid fading. The curved brim requires careful handling to maintain its shape.

With a little care, your dad hat can stay clean and keep its shape for years. Hand washing and air drying are the safest methods, and a quick spot clean after each wear can reduce the need for deep washes. For a fun and stylish option, check out the BonBon Dad Hat from Swedish Candy Store NYC—just remember to treat it gently.