The cap, that versatile and stylish accessory, deserves all our attention to stay beautiful and in good condition. No matter how you use it: for everyday wear or mainly in summer to protect you from the sun, it inevitably ends up getting dirty. But don't panic! Washing a cap is not an insurmountable task, and with a few tricks you can keep it looking like new for a long time to come. Follow this guide to learn how to wash a cap without damaging it.
To remember
- Cleaning will depend on the type of cap.
- Prefer gentle hand washing.
- Use a sponge or brush and soap to gently scrub away stains.
- Depending on the fabric, use cold water for wool and hot water for cotton.
- No machine washing.
- You can place your caps in your dishwasher. Place them in the upper compartment. Cleaning will take place on the cold cycle.
- To dry, wring out your cap and air-dry.
- If deformed, use steam to restore its shape.
The basic method: hand washing
Caps have become essential accessories in our wardrobe. They add a casual touch to any outfit while protecting us from the sun. However, they are also exposed to sweat, dust and stains. To keep your cap looking as good as new, we recommend washing it by hand. This preserves its quality and shape.
Here's how: Start by preparing the necessary equipment: a basin of water, mild soap such as Marseille soap or washing-up liquid, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush. Fill the basin with lukewarm water for cotton caps, or cold water for wool caps. Add a small amount of soap to the water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Then gently soak your cap in the basin. Use the sponge or brush to gently scrub away any stains. For the inner band, which is often the dirtiest part, rub vigorously with a cloth soaked in soapy water. Once all stains have been removed, rinse the cap with clean water to remove any soap residue. Squeeze gently without twisting the cap to avoid distorting the visor.
Another option: dishwashing
Yes, you read that right. Although machine washing is generally not recommended for caps, there is an interesting alternative: the dishwasher. It may sound strange, but it's an effective method if done right. To use this method, place your cap in the top compartment of the dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher is empty of dishes to avoid any food residue. Use a cold cycle and avoid aggressive detergents. Once the cycle is complete, remove the cap and blot it with a clean cloth to remove excess water. Leave to air dry, using a support to hold the shape of the visor, such as an upside-down bowl. This method can be useful if you don't have the above-mentioned items for hand-washing, or if the manual approach seems too restrictive.
Don't neglect drying
Drying is a crucial step in maintaining the shape of your cap. After washing, it's important to wring out the cap with a clean cloth to remove excess water. However, never twist the cap to avoid distorting the visor. Then let the cap air-dry, preferably in the shade to prevent the colors from fading. Use a support such as an upturned bowl or balloon to hold the shape of the visor during drying. Absolutely avoid tumble-dryers and hairdryers, as the heat can shrink the cap and deform the visor.
What about caps in other materials?
Some caps require special care, depending on their material. Here are a few extra tips for leather and wool caps.
Leather cap
Leather caps require special care. Avoid prolonged contact with water, as this may damage the leather. Use a damp cloth and a special leather cleaner to remove stains. For suede or nubuck caps, use a soft brush and a dry cleaner.
Wool cap
Wool is a delicate material that requires special care: always use cold water and a special wool detergent. After washing, dry the cap flat on a towel to prevent warping.
Washing a cap may seem tricky, but with these tips, you'll have everything you need to succeed without damaging your favorite accessory. Whether you choose to wash your cap by hand or in the dishwasher, always take care of the visor and the materials. So there's no excuse not to have a flawless cap for every occasion!
