How To Clean Military Hats

Instead of a sink you can also use a plastic bucket bowl or tub.

How to clean military hats. Clean the whole hat using a hydrogen peroxide solution. If your hat gets wet shake off all excess water let dry then lightly brush clean. Fill a spray bottle half with hydrogen peroxide and half with water. This works best for wool sock hats because hats with a bill or structure will crush if you roll them. Use steam to shape and clean hat.

One half we have had the privilege of working on many military hats over the years. Set dryer on tumble dry. Do this more than once if necessary until the hat is only slightly damp. Soak the hat in this solution for about 15 minutes or until the hat seems clean. If there are areas that are especially problematic spot clean them with a dab of cleaning product right on the hat.

You may add a scoop of oxyclean into the water to brighten light colors. After first dipping the hat in the water of your bucket or sink use a toothbrush or other small scrubber to rub the cleaner into the fabric. Spray the solution onto a soft cloth. If you handle a fedora by the pinch of the crown the pinch is the part of the hat where all of the fabric comes together to create a point this can create a rip in the fabric or cause the pinch to become asymmetrical. Remove the hat from the washing machine and place in dryer.

Roll the hat in a towel to soak up most of the water. Often the fabric is yellowed and stained with mildew. Take a clean dark towel and roll the hat up in it to remove most of the water. Fill a sink with lukewarm water to wash a cashmere or wool hat. Set your hat on its top or hang from a peg or hat hook to help it retain its shape.

Rinse the hat in clean cold water until the water runs clear. Even with clean hands the oils from your fingertips can discolor the felt of your hat over time. To clean a fur felt hat or wool hat brush the top and bottom counter clockwise with a soft bristle brush. Carefully wipe down the entire hat with the cloth. Spot clean the hat first as needed.