How to Wash a Cap Without Deforming It (Washer, Hand & Tricks!)

Caps are more than just an accessory to protect us from the sun; they're part of our style, sports companions, or even collector's items. With use, it's inevitable they accumulate sweat, dust, stains, and odors. But how do you clean them without them losing that characteristic shape, especially the visor? The idea of washing a cap can raise doubts, especially if we fear it ending up deformed or faded.

Can it go in the washing machine? Is hand washing better? And what about cardboard visors? In this comprehensive guide, we'll answer all your questions and explain the safest and most effective methods for washing your caps, whether they're fabric, athletic, have a stiff visor, or even white, keeping them clean, fresh, and—most importantly—with their shape intact!

Before Starting: What's Your Cap Made Of?

Not all caps are the same. The material will determine the most suitable cleaning method:

• Cotton, Polyester, Nylon, Mesh: These are the most common materials in sports and casual caps. Generally, they are the most durable and suitable for careful washing (preferably by hand).
• Wool: Less common, but some fitted or winter caps might be wool. They require extra delicate care, similar to a wool sweater (cold water, no rubbing).
• Visor: This is the critical point!
  • Plastic Visor (Most Modern Caps): These are durable and won't be damaged by water.
  • Cardboard Visor (Old or Cheap Caps): CAUTION! If you suspect the visor is cardboard (typical in caps from before the 80s/90s or some very cheap ones), YOU CANNOT SUBMERGE IT IN WATER. The cardboard will disintegrate. In this case, you can only do a surface clean of the crown.

  How to tell if it's cardboard? If the cap is very old, bend it gently. If it crinkles or feels stiff and inflexible, it could be cardboard. When in doubt, assume it's cardboard and don't get it wet.

• Care Label: Always check it! It's the best clue on how to proceed.

Preparation: Essential Preliminary Steps

Before wetting the cap (if suitable):

1. Colorfast Test: If the cap is colored, especially if new or intensely hued, dampen a hidden area (inside) with water and a bit of the soap you'll use. Gently rub with a white cloth. If color transfers, wash it alone and very carefully, or consider only surface cleaning.
2. Dry Brushing: Use a soft clothes brush or an old toothbrush to remove loose dust, hair, and surface dirt.
3. Spot Cleaning: If there are specific stains, try treating them first. Apply a small amount of mild detergent or a suitable stain remover for the fabric onto the stain, rub very gently with the toothbrush, and let sit for a few minutes before the general wash.

Recommended Method: Hand Washing the Cap

This is the safest way to control the process and prevent damage, especially to the visor and overall shape.

1. Prepare Soap and Water: Fill a clean sink or basin with COLD or LUKEWARM water (never hot). Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent (for delicates, bleach-free) or even a few drops of mild shampoo. Mix well.
2. Submerge and Clean Crown: Submerge the cap (if the visor isn't cardboard) in the soapy water. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen dirt.
3. Gentle Scrubbing: Use an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the entire cap, paying special attention to:
   • The inner sweatband: This is where most dirt and body oils accumulate. Scrub it well but gently.
   • Visible stains.
   • The visor (if plastic): Clean both sides.

   If the visor is cardboard, wash only the fabric crown with the dampened brush, avoiding wetting the visor.

4. Thorough Rinse: Rinse the cap thoroughly under cold running water until no trace of soap remains. Poor rinsing can leave halos or attract more dirt later.
5. Remove Excess Water (No Twisting): Gently press the crown of the cap with your hands to remove excess water. Then, place it on a clean, dry towel and press with another towel on top to absorb more moisture. NEVER twist or wring the cap! It will lose its shape.

Can You Wash a Cap in the Washing Machine? (Risky Option)

As mentioned, not ideal, but if you decide to (and the label doesn't explicitly forbid it, and the visor is plastic):

• Protection INDISPENSABLE: Use a specific protective cap cage or, at the very least, put it in a mesh laundry bag for delicates. This is vital to try and maintain the shape.
• Cushioning Company: Wash it along with towels or other soft items to cushion impacts.
• Program and Settings:DELICATE cycle, COLD water, mild LIQUID detergent (small amount), NO SOFTENER OR BLEACH, and most importantly, NO SPIN or absolute MINIMUM!
• Risks: Even with precautions, the visor can warp, or the overall structure can weaken.

The Dishwasher Trick: Does It Work or Wreck?

This method circulates online but is controversial.

• The Theory: Involves placing the cap (ideally in a protective cage) on the top rack of the dishwasher and running a normal cycle without heated dry.
• The Risks:
  • Heat: Even without the drying cycle, dishwasher water temperatures can be too high for some caps and deform them.
  • Harsh Detergents: Dishwasher detergents are much stronger than laundry detergents and can damage colors and fibers.
  • Food Residue: Risk of the cap ending up dirtier or smelling like food.
• Verdict: Generally not recommended. It's very risky and can ruin your cap. Hand washing is much safer.

Drying: The Secret to Keeping Its Shape!

Improper drying is the main cause of misshapen caps.

• NEVER USE THE DRYER!: Intense heat will deform the visor (even plastic ones) and can shrink the fabric.
• Maintain the Shape: This is the key step. While the cap is damp:
  • Stuff It: Put crumpled white tissue paper, paper towels, or a small dry towel inside the crown so it keeps its rounded volume.
  • Use a Mold: Place the cap over something head-shaped to dry while maintaining the curve. You can use: a large upside-down bowl, an inflated balloon, a large coffee can, a mannequin head, or a specific cap form/shaper.
• AIR DRY in the SHADE: Leave the cap on its mold in a well-ventilated, cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight (fades and yellows) and heat sources.
• Time: Allow enough time for it to dry completely, which might take 24 hours or more.

Extra Tricks for Specific Caps

• Cleaning a Sweaty Cap (Inner Band): This area gets the dirtiest. During hand washing, insist gently on this band with the brush and soap. If odor persists after drying, you can try wiping it with a cotton ball dampened in diluted white vinegar or rubbing with a paste of baking soda and water, rinsing well afterward.
• Cleaning a White Cap: If it has yellow stains (sweat, age), after basic cleaning, you can apply yellowing treatments: baking soda paste, diluted hydrogen peroxide (test first!), or percarbonate (if just white canvas). Drying in the shade is crucial to prevent further yellowing. Consult how to remove yellow stains.

Also, if you have very specific stains like makeup on the inner band, treat them before the general wash.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washing Caps

There's no excuse to wear a dirty cap anymore! With these methods, especially careful hand washing and drying on a mold, you can keep your favorite caps clean, fresh, and preserving their original shape for a long time.