Trucker hats are back in style. They're taking charge whether it's to block the sun, finish your outfit, or represent your favorite brand. A trucker or fitted hat is a must-have accessory for many outfits. The bad aspect is that after weeks of wear, sweat, dust, and other grime that an everyday hero can collect, your favorite hat can become worn out and start to smell.
You might be asking yourself, Can I throw it in the washer? Will it get crunched in the washer? What is the proper way to wash it?
Don't worry, you've come to the right place. The following guide will show you how to wash a trucker hat to stay fresh, clean properly, and last long.
What Is a Trucker Hat?
Before we examine any specific cleaning methods, let's briefly review some characteristics that make trucker hats special. Trucker hats typically have:
- A fabric or foam front panel
- A breathable mesh back
- A curved bill
- An adjustable snapback
The combination of structure and air flow makes it an excellent choice for casual wear and outdoor activities. The materials, especially the foam front, require special care when cleaning.
When Is It Time to Clean Your Trucker Hat?
Unlike your tees or socks, you don’t have to wash your hat after every wear. But if you notice:
- The front panel or brim has sweat stains
- It smells funky
- There’s visible dirt, dust, or makeup stains
- You wore it while sweating at the gym, hiking, or working in the yard. …it’s time to wash it.
Things to Consider Before You Begin
Not all hats are made the same, and trucker hats can often be sensitive, especially older ones with cardboard brims! Before you grab the soap, consider these helpful tips:
- Look at the label: Some hats can have cleaning instructions; always check for cleaning instructions and follow them first.
- Understand your brim: Older hats (especially from the 80s and 90s) may have cardboard brims. Never soak a cardboard brim hat in water.
- Avoid washing machines and dryers: It's tempting, but this can ruin the hat's shape. For best results, seek hand washing.
Washing a Trucker Hat by Hand (Best Method)
What You Will Need:
- A clean sink or a clean bowl.
- Mild laundry detergent or dish soap.
- Soft cloth or toothbrush.
- Cold or lukewarm water.
- Towel.
- Optional: stain remover for more persistent spots.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Fill your Sink with Cool or Lukewarm Water
Do not use hot water! Hot water could damage the fabric and fade colors.
Add a few drops of mild detergent into the water. Swirl with your hand to create a little suds action.
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Spot Clean First
If there are heavy stains (e.g., sweat, foundation, and soil stains), use a soft toothbrush or cloth, dip it into the sudsy water, and scrub these areas gently—no need to overdo it.
For oily or makeup spots, dab a little stain remover or dish soap on them and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
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Soak the Hat
Gently place the entire hat in the soapy water. While holding the hat, gently depress it to wet the foam and mesh. Do not crush or twist it!
Let it soak for 10-20 minutes.
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Carefully Clean the Hat
Use your hands or a soft brush to clean the hat. Focus mainly on the inner band, where sweat accumulates. Use gentle circular motions, and do not pull or tug.
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Rinse the Hat with Cold Water
Drain your sink and rinse the hat under cold running water until all soap is out. Be sure not to bend the brim.
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Pat Dry with a Dry Towel
Pat dry the hat with a clean towel, and do not wring it out as that could mess up the shape.
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Reshape and Air dry
Reshape your hat where it needs to be reshaped, especially the crown and brim. Whatever you do, do not put it on anything flat, as that will elongate the crown and flatten the brim.
Place the hat on a towel or upside down on a rounded object, like a small bowl or upside-down mug, to keep its shape while drying. Let the hat air dry in the open air and allow it to dry entirely, preferably overnight; this could take several hours.
Pro Tip: Do not dry in direct sunlight or with a hair dryer as heat will shrink and warp the hat!
How to Wash Trucker Hats in a Washing Machine
Cleaning Trucker Hats Using a Washer
The safest way to wash a trucker hat is by hand. However, if your trucker hat is contemporary (modern), sturdy, and not too old or brittle, you can also use a washing machine following specific guidelines. Hats with foam fronts and plastic mesh may survive washing if done very carefully. This is how to properly wash a trucker hat without destroying it:
What You Need:
- Mild laundry detergent
- A hat cage, or preferably a mesh laundry bag
- Cold water
- Gentle or delicate cycle setting
- A towel or drying rack (for air drying)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wash your trucker hat:
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Put your hat in a hat cage or mesh laundry bag
This is important. A hat cage or mesh bag will help your hat maintain its shape throughout the wash and keep it from snagging or ripping on other clothing.
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Choose the correct laundry load.
Do not wash your hat with heavy items such as jeans, towels, or jackets. Stick to light clothing such as t-shirts or underwear so the hat doesn’t experience extra pressure during the spin cycle.
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Use cold water and the gentle cycle.
Be sure to use cold water so your hat does not shrink or fade. Also, set your machine to the gentle or delicate cycle to give your hat a light wash with minimal agitation.
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Use mild detergent
If you are using regular laundry detergent, only use a small amount. Do not use bleach or other harsh cleaners. Those can damage the fabric and graphics of your hat.
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Don't use the dryer
Never put your trucker hat in the dryer when the wash is done. The heat can warp the brim, shrink the mesh on the back of the hat, or cause the foam on the front of the hat to lose its shape.
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Re-shape and Air Dry
After removing the hat from the bag, reshape it as needed, you can lay it on a clean towel or utilize a small bowl or other container to dry it naturally. Air dry your hat completely; this could take several hours or overnight.
Important Note:
Do not machine wash vintage hats, cardboard brims, or structures. The water can seep in and weaken their structure, causing them to bend or fall apart. Only hand wash or spot clean these materials.
Machines are great for convenience, but you should only use a machine if you know that your hat can handle it. If you do not know, always wash by hand!
Quick Tips for Maintaining Your Trucker Hat
Now that your hat looks brand new and clean, here's how to keep it that way:
- If you sweat a lot, don't wear it to the gym; wear a washable cap when working out.
- When you're done wearing it, store it properly on a hook or in a drawer, not crushed under piles of clothes.
- Clean the sweat stains early before they become difficult or impossible to remove.
- Use a hat liner or headband, which can help protect the inner band against sweat.
- If you wear hats often, have one or two rotating in your closet; less wear and tear means less washing.
Final thoughts
Trucker hats are not just a casual accessory; they hold personality, remembrance, and style. You may wear an old trucker hat to rep your favorite clothing brand, local sports team, or a travel memory. No matter what it is, keeping it clean and fresh will help it last longer and look better.
So, the next time your trucker hat looks dirty, you will know precisely how to wash it without ruining it.
Always wash your trucker hat gently. Your hat (and your outfit) will thank you.