You’ve had your hat for months or years now, and it’s formed a few spots and perhaps feels kind of greasy. Many hat owners seek convenient ways to wash their hats and thus are wondering how to wash a hat in the dishwasher. 

If you’ve been researching ways to wash your hat, you may have noticed that many resources don’t prefer using a dishwasher to wash hats. From the hot water of the dishwater to its seemingly unpredictable, harsh heat drying—there are a few concerns expressed by many hat-washing connessueirs. 

If you’re wondering how to wash a hat in the dishwasher, we’re here to say that it’s entirely possible. Perhaps you’re on the run and can’t slow down for the preferred methods of washing a hat (more on those later). 

Stick around and soon you’ll know just how to wash a hat in the dishwasher!

The Steps Regarding How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher 

First, let’s state the obvious: you don’t want to damage your hat. Good.

Next, let’s talk about what you’ll need. 

• A dishwasher, preferably one with diverse settings
• Dishwater detergent (make sure it’s bleach free!)
• A hat frame to prevent your hat from warping

One quick note before we begin, if you’re hat has seen better days (on the dirtier side), try pre-treating your hat with a stain-removing paste. Be sure to research different products to find something that works for the fabric your hat is made of. Now let’s dive into using a dishwasher!

1. Get Your Hat in the Dishwasher 

Place your hat in its frame (see supply list) and set the frame/hat on the top shelf of your dishwasher. Other than the hat, the dishwasher should be empty. 

If you couldn’t manage to get a frame, try using the adjustable strap of the hat to secure it around the side of the dishwasher. 

2. Detergent Time

Note: Your detergent should contain no bleach or citric acid. These chemicals can damage the fabric of your hat. 

When you’re ready, place your detergent in its normal place in the usual quantity you'd use with a dishwasher full of dishes. 

3. Set the Cycle

When setting your dishwater cycle, ensure you use warm (not hot) water and make sure the heat dry option is off. 

4. Drying

Once your hat is washed, give it adequate time to dry. 24 - 48 hours is preferable, but will depend on the temperature of where you’re drying. An area with ample airflow will ensure a smooth drying process. 

Other Ways to Wash Your Hat

Okay, you came to learn how to wash a hat in the dishwater, but maybe you feel a bit skeptical, and that’s okay. Here are some other (often preferred methods) for making sure your hat gets a safe clean.

Machine Washing Your Hat

Machine washing is specifically useful for baseball hats and beanies. We’d forgo using this method for any other type of hat. 

To machine wash your hat, use a stain remover beforehand as needed. Do not use bleach for this! Ensure whatever you use is color safe. 

Wash the white hat with a small load of white laundry. This can help protect your hat. Make sure you use cold water and a delicate setting on your washer machine. 

Do not use a dryer. Let the hat air dry. 

Hand-Washing Your Hat

We suggest using hand-washing for cotton, synthetic materials, or wool.

Stir baking soda (table spoon), hydrogen peroxide (1 cup), and some detergent into a large sink or bowl full of water. This is a great synergy of ingredients for cleaning your hat. For washing wool, make sure you use a wool-specific detergent such as Woolite. 

First, submerge your hat for around 45 minutes. Then, use a small brush to scrub away any tough stains as needed (be gentle). Dip your hat back in the water once you’re finished.

After giving your hat a final rinse, very gently squeeze excess water out of your hat before hanging it to dry. Avoid wringing-out the hat.