Washing a cap requires some caution to avoid damaging it, especially if it's made of delicate materials or has a stiff brim. Here are the steps for washing a cap, by hand or in a machine!

Washing a cap by hand is often the safest method to preserve its shape and colors. Here is a more detailed guide on hand-washing a cap:

Hand washing

Preparation:

• Choosing detergent: Use a mild detergent or a delicate clothing soap. These products are less aggressive on fabrics and colors.

• Water: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Make sure the water isn't too hot, as this could discolor the cap.

Cleaning:

• Soaking: Add a few drops of detergent to the water and agitate to create a soapy solution. Then immerse the cap in this solution, letting it soak for a few minutes.

• Gentle brushing: For particularly dirty or stained areas, use a soft toothbrush or a clothing brush. Gently rub in circular motions to remove dirt. Pay special attention to the sweatband inside the cap, which tends to accumulate a lot of grime.

• Rinsing: After brushing and cleaning the cap, rinse it under lukewarm running water to remove all soap residue. Make sure all soap has been rinsed out, as any residue left can create stiff areas on the fabric once dry.

Drying:

• Removing excess water: Gently press the cap to remove excess water. Be careful not to twist or distort the fabric or brim.

• Shaping and air drying: Lay a clean towel on a flat surface and place the cap on it, reshaping it to its original form. Let it air dry, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. You can also fill the inside of the cap with absorbent paper or a small towel to help it retain its shape while drying.

Our tips for hand washing

• If the cap's brim is made of cardboard or a material that cannot withstand water, try to keep it as dry as possible during the process.
• For valuable caps or autographed caps, consider consulting a cleaning specialist before attempting to wash them.

By following these steps, your cap should be clean while maintaining its original shape and colors.

Machine washing

Washing a cap in a machine is a quick option, but it carries risks. The agitated motion and exposure to other clothes can cause distortion or damage. If you opt for this method, here's how to minimize the risks:

Preparation:

• Consulting the label: First and foremost, check your cap's care label. Some caps are not designed for machine washing.

• Protection: To protect your cap, use a laundry bag or a pillowcase. Secure the opening tightly to prevent the cap from falling out during washing.

Washing:

• Cycle selection: Choose a delicate cycle or a gentle cycle for delicate laundry. Use cold water to reduce the risk of fading or shrinking.

• Detergent: Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach, which could damage or discolor the cap.

• Other items: Avoid washing the cap with heavy or abrasive items (like zippers or buttons) that could distort or damage it.

After washing:

• No machine drying: Never put a cap in the dryer. Heat and agitation can distort, shrink, or damage the cap.

• Shaping and air drying: Just as with hand washing, after removing the cap from the machine, reshape it to its original form. Place it on a clean towel to dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. To help the cap retain its shape while drying, you can fill it with absorbent paper or a towel.

Our tips for machine washing

• If you have a valuable, rare, or uniquely detailed cap (such as with autographs), it is always best to hand wash it.
• Caps with cardboard brims should not be machine washed, as the cardboard can absorb water and become deformed.
• If your washing machine has a "hand wash" setting, this can be a less aggressive alternative to the delicate cycle.

By following these precautions, you can effectively clean your cap in the machine while minimizing the associated risks.