It can be hard to say goodbye to your favorite golf equipment. Golfers will spend hours cleaning their golf clubs and golf bags to avoid buying new ones, but there is nothing like the attachment you feel to your favorite hat.
We get it and we want to help you bring your golf hat “back to life”. We may not be able to fix the fading due to hours in direct sunlight, but we can give you ideas to get rid of those nasty yellow stains from sweat. We know how your feel about your golf cap and we don’t think the relationship has to end just yet. Let’s get started!
Before You Begin Washing Your Golf Hat
You’re excited to get started, but before you start putting a stain remover on your Sunday Golf hat, do some research about the hat. The technique you use can vary depending on the material or materials that were used to construct your hat. Wool, leather, and silk need to be handled differently than a golf cap made of cotton or polyester.
Finally, before you start the process you should decide how aggressive you want to be with your cleaning. There is always some level of risk that you might damage your hat accidentally. We hope this doesn’t happen, but if it does, you can always start a new relationship with a brand-new hat!
Do’s: Proper Ways To Wash Golf Hats
Prepare Your Hat For Washing
Get your golf hat ready to be cleaned by removing any debris that is on the hat. We don’t want you to use any water for this step - simply brush or dab off any dried dirt or sand that you see on the brim.
How did you get dirt or sand on your golf hat? The last time you visited the golf course or driving range did you take any large divots? If so, that could be the answer. The best tool for this step is a soft bristle brush - an old toothbrush will get the job done.
Machine-Washing Method
A washing machine is an option, but you need to be careful with the other items you include in the same load because they can cause your hat to be crushed or lose its shape. If you decide to go this route, we recommend a gentle cycle using cool water. Don’t simply drop it in the washer, use a delicates bag if you have one. Laundry detergent works well for most hat materials. For best results, allow your hat to air dry.
Cleaning Your Hat In A Dishwasher
The dishwasher in your kitchen can work, but you need to be careful when you choose your materials and the cycle. Be sure to use a non-bleach dishwashing detergent. Set the dishwasher on a cold water cycle and make sure any heated dry option is turned off. Once clean you will need to let your hat air dry. If you are worried about the shape of your cap, you can find a dishwasher hat rack on Amazon.
Hand-Washing Method
The hand-washing method is the safest, but the most time-consuming. You need a sink or a large bowl filled with warm water (not hot water). Add a small amount of laundry detergent to your water. Before you submerge your hat, use an old toothbrush to do some spot cleaning. Once you are done with this step, place your entire hat in your warm water and leave it for at least one hour. Remove from the water and allow it to air dry.
Dont’s: Mistakes To Avoid When Washing Golf Hats
Using Harsh Chemicals
Soapy water is the answer - harsh chemicals such as bleach can cause damage to your hat and force you to throw it away. Dish soap and laundry detergent work well, but you don’t need to use a large amount. All golfers love clean golf hats, but we don’t want you to ruin your favorite by accident.
Ironing or High Heat Drying
You probably noticed a theme above - we consistently said: “air dry”. It’s a risky move to place your hat in your clothes dryer, use an iron, or grab your hair dryer. All of these can cause irreparable damage. Be patient - let your hat dry overnight.
Neglecting The Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
This may sound obvious, but wanted to make sure it was clearly stated. If the manufacturer of your hat tells you how to handle the hat, listen! We promise you don’t know better than the company that made your product. They’re the experts!
Tips For Maintaining The Hat’s Shape
Store It Properly
This is important if you decide to use your washing machine. Pay attention to what else you put in the load with your baseball cap and if possible, make it a light load. A great option is to use a delicate bag to further protect your hat from other items in the machine. It can hard to regain the shape if it is crushed during the spin cycle.
Reshape The Hat After Washing
Once your golf hat is 100% dry, it is time to reshape. It may sound silly, but the easiest way to achieve this goal is to simply wear your hat. It will be tight at first, but wear it around the house for a few hours and the shape you enjoy should return.
Use Hat Forms Or Molds
You can buy a dishwasher hat rack that is designed to protect the shape of your hat during its cleaning journey. These same molds/racks can work in your washing machine as well. These “hat racks” are relatively inexpensive and are worth your consideration if you feel nostalgic about your golf hat.
How To Wash Your Golf Hat: FAQs
Can I Wash My Golf Hat in the Dishwasher?
Yes, you can wash your golf hat in the dishwasher. Make sure you use a non-bleach detergent and turn off the “heated dry option”. To protect the shape of your hat, you may want to use a dishwasher hat rack.
Can I Use a Washing Machine for All Types of Golf Hats?
It depends on the shape and the materials used to make your golf hat. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and when in doubt, hand wash your golf hat with warm water and a small amount of dish soap.
How Do I Clean a Sweaty Golf Hat?
You can wash your sweaty golf hat in your washing machine, your dishwasher, or by hand. While it is the most time-consuming, the safest way to clean it is by hand. Use an old toothbrush, warm water, and a small amount of dish soap.
How Do I Get Sweat Stains Out of My Golf Hat?
Get an old toothbrush, warm (not hot) water, and a small amount of dish soap. Lightly scrub the sweat stains with the toothbrush and soapy water. Let your golf hat air dry.
How To Wash a Dri-Fit Hat?
You can wash a Dri-Fit hat in the washing machine, the dishwasher, or by hand. The safest way to avoid damaging the hat is to hand wash it with an old toothbrush, warm water, and a small amount of dish soap. Never use a heated drying mechanism (hair dryer, etc.) - always let your Dri-Fit hat air dry.
Don’t Give Up On Your Golf Hat
Just because your favorite golf hat has a few stains doesn’t mean you have to give up on it. It will never be new again, but it still has some rounds left in it. Be delicate, patient, and let it air dry. In no time at all you will be strolling down the first fairway in your favorite golf hat.
