How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher Without Ruining It
How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ever looked at your favorite, well-worn baseball cap and thought, ‘This could use a serious clean’? You’re not alone. Hats are magnets for sweat, dirt, and everyday grime. But before you risk ruining its shape by tossing it in the washing machine, there’s a surprisingly effective and gentle method you might not have considered: your dishwasher.
Yep, you read that right. Your dishwasher isn’t just for dirty plates; it can safely freshen up your caps, too. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Follow this simple guide to get your hat looking great again without damaging it.
Before You Start: Can Your Hat Go in the Dishwasher?
First things first: not all hats are created equal. This method works best for modern baseball caps and hats made from durable materials.
- Safe Materials to Wash: Cotton, polyester, jersey mesh, and most synthetic fabrics can handle a dishwasher cycle.
- Materials to Avoid: Do not wash hats made of wool, felt, or leather. Also, avoid washing any hat with a cardboard brim. Older caps, especially those from before the early 90s, often have a cardboard brim that will turn to mush in the water. Modern caps almost always use a sturdy, washable plastic.
If the care label says "hand wash only" or the hat already looks fragile, it’s best to skip this method and wash it by hand.
The Ultimate Guide: Washing Your Hat in 6 Easy Steps
Once you’ve determined your hat is dishwasher-safe, follow these steps for a perfect clean.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hat (Pre-Treat Stains)
For any noticeable stains, like sweat marks or dirt smudges, it’s a good idea to pre-treat them. Apply a small amount of a gentle, bleach-free stain remover or a paste of water and baking soda to the stained area. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before washing.
Step 2: Use a Hat Frame for Best Results
A plastic hat frame or "cap cage" is your best friend for this job. This simple device holds your cap’s shape throughout the wash cycle, preventing the brim from getting bent or the crown from getting misshapen. They are inexpensive and highly recommended for the best results. If you don’t have one, you can try securing the hat over the top-rack prongs, but a frame is the safest option.
Step 3: Place It on the Top Rack
Always position your hat on the top rack of the dishwasher. The main heating element is located at the bottom, and the direct, intense heat from it can warp the plastic parts of your hat or cause the fabric to shrink. The water pressure on the top rack is also generally gentler, which is better for your cap.
Step 4: Choose the Right Detergent
Use a small amount of a mild dishwashing detergent that does not contain bleach, lemon, or other citric acids. These ingredients are great for cutting grease on dishes but can cause discoloration or damage the hat’s fabric and stitching. If you’re unsure, a standard, non-citrus liquid or powder detergent is a safe bet.
Step 5: Select the Right Dishwasher Cycle
This is the most important step for protecting your hat.
- Set your dishwasher to the shortest and coolest cycle available. Avoid "heavy duty" or "pots and pans" settings.
- Turn Off the Heat-Dry cycle. This is critical. The high heat of a drying cycle will shrink the hat and can permanently warp the brim.
- Wash the Hat Alone. Don't wash your hat with dirty dishes. This prevents food particles or grease from getting stuck on the fabric.
Step 6: Air Dry for a Perfect Finish
As soon as the wash cycle finishes, remove the hat immediately. To help it retain its perfect shape while it dries, place it over an object similar in size to your head, like a coffee can, a large jar, or a balled-up towel. Let it air dry completely before wearing it again. Never put a wet hat in a clothes dryer.
Is Your Dishwasher Not Cleaning Well?
Washing a hat is a great test for your dishwasher. If you follow these steps and your hat still comes out dirty, or if you’ve noticed your regular dishes aren’t getting clean, it could be a sign that your appliance needs attention. A dishwasher that is not cleaning properly, is leaking, or is making strange noises might have a problem with its spray arms, water inlet valve, or drain pump.
If your dishwasher isn’t performing as it should, our team of certified technicians is here to help. At A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance, we specialize in dishwasher repair for all major brands. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and get your appliance back to its peak cleaning performance!
.webp)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.svg.png)
