4 Hat Hacks and Care Tips for Long-Lasting Headwear
Posted by Claudine Botha on
We all “wear many hats” as we move through our day, juggling various roles and responsibilities. But how often do we stop and consider the actual hats we wear and how best to take care of them?
If you look around, you will notice that you have many hats for different occasions, from stylish caps to wide-brim sun hats, all with a purpose and deserving of some care.
Read on for tips on keeping your hats looking good for years to come.
1. Taking Shape
Hats lose shape over time, especially if not stored or handled correctly. Here are some examples of how to get your hat back to its original shape:
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Straw hats can be gently steamed and manually moulded back to their former shape.
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A hat shaper is a handy tool on felt hats to get them back into shape. If you don’t have one, scrunched-up balls of paper placed inside the hat will do the same job.
2. Careful Storage
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It is never a good idea to stuff your headwear into a drawer or bag, as they will surely lose shape or get damaged. Instead, invest in a hat stand or install some hooks behind your door. Hanging helps them look good and allows air circulation to prevent them from getting musty.
3. Cleaning Methods
The correct method for cleaning your hats will vary according to the type of hat and the material from which it is made.
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Read the label: Check for any specific cleaning instructions. Some hats will be machine washable, while others will require hand washing or dry cleaning.
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Spot cleaning: The easiest way to deal with minor dirt or stains is to spot clean using a damp cloth. If the stain is stubborn, a mild soap solution and a small brush will do the trick (tip: an old toothbrush works wonders). Avoid over-wetting the hat unnecessarily. Leave the hat to air dry completely before storing.
4. Freshening Things Up
If your hat is a bit damp or smelling musty, sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda (bicarb) inside it. This will help to absorb odours and sweat. After a few hours, brush out the excess bicarb for a fresh-smelling hat.
Frequently air your hat in a well-ventilated area. Doing this regularly will help keep your hat clean, dry and in good condition.
Shop online at USB & MORE for an extensive collection of quality headwear, including caps, beanies, pantsula hats, bucket hats, bush hats, sun visors and more.