The safest way to wash an embroidered hat is by hand: cold water, a little mild soap, a soft brush or cloth, then air dry on something round so it keeps its shape. If you must use a machine, use a cold, delicate cycle with the hat in a mesh laundry bag. Never put your hat in the dryer. Heat can warp the bill, shrink the fabric and pull at the stitching.
Before you wash: check the hat
- Look at the tag. If the maker gives care instructions, follow them.
- Check the build. Structured hats like truckers and fitted caps have a firm front that can crease if crushed. Unstructured dad hats are more forgiving.
- Test for color bleed. On a bright or two-tone hat, dab a hidden spot with a damp white cloth first.
Option 1: Spot clean (best for small marks)
Most hats don’t need a full wash. For a smudge or a little dirt:
- Mix a drop of mild soap into cold water.
- Dip a soft toothbrush or cloth and gently work the spot.
- Brush around the embroidery, not hard across it.
- Wipe with a clean damp cloth and let it air dry.
Option 2: How to wash an embroidered hat by hand
For a sweaty or dusty hat, a hand wash is the gentle choice.
- Fill a sink with cold water and a small amount of mild soap.
- Let the hat soak for a few minutes.
- Gently scrub the sweatband and any dirty spots with a soft brush.
- Rinse with cool, clean water until the soap is gone.
- Press out water with a towel. Don’t wring or twist the hat.
Option 3: The machine (only if you must)
Some people wash hats in the machine. If you do, lower the risk:
- Put the hat in a mesh laundry bag.
- Use cold water and the delicate cycle.
- Wash it with soft items, not jeans or towels with zippers.
- Skip bleach and harsh detergents, which can fade thread and fabric.
Structured hats are the most likely to lose their shape in a machine, so hand washing is better for truckers and fitted caps.
How to dry your hat
Drying is where most hats get ruined. Air dry only. Set the hat over something round, like a bowl, a balloon or a rolled-up towel, so the crown dries in shape. Keep it out of direct heat and strong sun. Never use the dryer, a hair dryer on high, or a radiator.
Will the embroidery hold up?
We stitch with Madeira thread, which is colorfast and made to last. Embroidery doesn’t peel or crack like a printed design, and with gentle care it stays bright for years. Rough washing, hot water and the dryer are what wear it down.
Hat washing questions
Can I put my hat in the dishwasher?
We don’t recommend it. The heat and strong detergent can warp the hat and fade the thread.
How do I get sweat stains out?
Gently scrub the sweatband with mild soap and cold water, then rinse. Regular light cleaning keeps stains from setting.
How do I wash a beanie?
Hand wash in cold water and lay it flat to dry. Heat can shrink knit.
Want more care tips? Our FAQ covers hat care, and you can always text or email us. Need a fresh hat? Design a new one here.