# How to Wash Caps in the Dishwasher: Safe Cleaning Tips
Caps, particularly baseball caps, are a staple in many wardrobes—whether you’re shielding your eyes from the sun, supporting your favorite team, or simply hiding a bad hair day. Over time, however, these beloved accessories can accumulate sweat, dirt, and grime, leaving them looking worn and unappealing. While hand washing is often touted as the safest method, washing caps in the dishwasher is a surprisingly effective and convenient alternative—if done correctly. This detailed guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, offering practical tips to ensure your caps come out clean and undamaged. We’ll also explore why this method works, what to watch out for, and alternative cleaning options, all backed by insights from credible sources.
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## Why Consider the Dishwasher for Washing Caps?
The dishwasher offers a unique advantage over traditional washing machines: it cleans without the tumbling or agitation that can distort a cap’s shape. As noted by experts at Flamingo Appliance Service, “The great advantage that the dishwasher has over the washing machine is that it doesn’t tumble or agitate its contents. This means that an item like a hat is able to retain its shape while being washed” [(( Flamingo Appliance Service ))]. The gentle water jets and controlled environment make it a viable option for a thorough clean, especially for caps made of sturdy materials like cotton or polyester.
That said, not all caps are dishwasher-safe. The heat, pressure, and detergent can damage delicate fabrics or embellishments, so understanding your cap’s material and construction is key. Let’s dive into the process and precautions to make this cleaning hack work for you.
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## Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Caps in the Dishwasher
### Step 1: Check the Cap’s Material and Care Label
Before tossing your cap into the dishwasher, inspect it closely. Look for the manufacturer’s tag inside the cap—usually found along the sweatband. Materials like cotton, polyester, or synthetic blends are typically durable enough for a dishwasher cycle, while wool, leather, or vintage caps with cardboard bills (common in pre-1983 designs) should be avoided. According to WikiHow, “Check the material on your hat’s tag before washing it. Materials like cotton or synthetics are safe to put inside your dishwasher, but cardboard or wool could get damaged” [(( WikiHow ))]. If the label says “hand wash only,” skip the dishwasher and opt for a gentler method.
Pro Tip: Flick the bill of your cap. If it makes a hollow sound, it’s likely cardboard—steer clear of water-heavy cleaning.
### Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
For caps with sweat stains or heavy soiling, pre-treating can boost cleaning results. Sophia Grant from Use Active suggests, “Take a close look at your hat. If it’s heavily soiled or stained, you’ll need to give those areas some extra attention before popping the cap in the dishwasher. In a small bowl, dissolve a bit of ACTIVE Detergent in water to create a solution. Using a soft bristle brush (e.g., an old toothbrush), apply the detergent mixture onto the stain.” Test the solution on a small, hidden area first to ensure it won’t affect the color or fabric integrity. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before moving to the next step.
### Step 3: Secure the Cap in the Dishwasher
Placement is critical to protect your cap’s shape. Always place it on the top rack, where it’s farthest from the heating element and experiences less intense water pressure. Donna Chambers, a clothing expert cited by Homes & Gardens, advises, “Place the hat on the top rack of the dishwasher. This area receives less intense water pressure and heat compared to the bottom rack.” For added protection, consider using a cap cage or frame (like the Ballcap Buddy), which holds the cap in place during the wash. If you don’t have one, prop the cap over the prongs or secure it with clothespins to prevent it from flopping around.
Important: Avoid washing your cap with dirty dishes. Food residue could transfer onto the fabric, making it dirtier than before. Run the cycle with the cap alone or with other dishwasher-safe, non-food items.
### Step 4: Choose the Right Settings and Detergent
High heat and harsh detergents can shrink, fade, or warp your cap, so opt for a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Pro Housekeepers warns, “It’s critical to manage the heat levels throughout the entire cleaning process. Controlling temperature effectively is not just about fabric preservation; it’s about ensuring the cap can continue to tell its story—inning after inning, without the wear of time induced by heat.” Turn off the heated drying cycle if possible, or remove the cap before it begins.
For detergent, use a mild, bleach-free option—dishwasher pods, liquid, or powder all work, but avoid laundry detergent, which can damage your dishwasher. Mr. Appliance suggests, “What often surprises people is that you should use regular dishwasher detergent; not laundry detergent. Just make sure to check beforehand that the detergent you use doesn’t contain bleach” [(( Mr. Appliance ))]. Alternatively, a tablespoon of borax can clean effectively and remove odors without harming the fabric.
### Step 5: Air Dry Properly
Never let your cap go through the dishwasher’s drying cycle—the heat can ruin its shape or melt plastic components. Remove it immediately after the wash cycle and air dry it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Practically Functional recommends, “Once the dishwasher is done washing the baseball caps, pull them out and set them aside to dry. I propped them up on the counter on top of a tumbler to help them keep their rounded shape a little bit.” You can also use a bowl, jar, or even a balloon to maintain the dome shape while it dries. Allow it to dry completely—usually several hours to a day—before wearing it again.
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## What Types of Caps Are Dishwasher-Safe?
Not every cap can handle the dishwasher’s environment. Here’s a quick rundown based on expert advice:
– **Baseball Caps**: Most cotton or polyester baseball caps with plastic bills are prime candidates, as they’re sturdy and flexible.
– **Trucker Hats and Bucket Hats**: Synthetic materials like nylon or polyester mesh tolerate water pressure and heat well.
– **Visors**: Similar to baseball caps, these are often made from durable fabrics that hold up in the dishwasher.
Avoid washing:
– **Wool or Knit Caps**: These can shrink or felt under heat and water exposure.
– **Straw Hats**: Best cleaned with a hose and air-dried, as dishwashers can break down the straw.
– **Caps with Cardboard Bills**: Water will disintegrate the cardboard, ruining the structure.
– **Decorated Caps**: Embellishments like sequins, embroidery, or glued-on patches may loosen or fade.
Yessica Bello from Bello’s Cleaning explains, “Hats can be delicate and require specific care… For example, baseball caps made of cotton or polyester often hold up well because they can handle the water pressure and temperature without warping” [(( Homes & Gardens ))].
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## Pros and Cons of Dishwasher Cleaning
### Pros
– **Convenience**: Faster and less labor-intensive than hand washing.
– **Thorough Cleaning**: Water jets reach areas that might be missed by hand.
– **Shape Retention**: Less risk of deformation compared to a washing machine’s agitation.
### Cons
– **Risk of Damage**: Heat or detergent can harm delicate materials or decorations.
– **Limited Applicability**: Not all caps are suitable, requiring careful selection.
– **Potential Wear**: Dishwasher detergent isn’t designed for fabrics, which may lead to fading over time, as noted by Your Life Well Organized: “Because dishwasher detergent is really not intended for fabrics, it might cause the hat to wear down, change color, or be damaged.”
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## Alternative Cleaning Methods
If the dishwasher feels too risky, here are safer options:
### Hand Washing
Widely recommended by brands like New Era and Brixton, hand washing is gentle and effective. Fill a sink with lukewarm water and a teaspoon of mild detergent. Submerge the cap, scrub stains with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry over a rounded object to maintain shape.
### Spot Cleaning
For minor stains, HGTV suggests, “Spot clean the outer fabric with a fabric spray like OxiClean or a spray bottle filled with a ratio of 1 cup water, 1 teaspoon white vinegar and a few drops of dish detergent.” This method avoids full submersion, preserving delicate components.
### Washing Machine (With Caution)
Use a cap frame and the delicate cycle with cold water if you must, but Whirlpool warns, “It’s possible to wash a hat in the washing machine… but you still run the risk of the hat losing its structured shape due to friction and pressure caused by the washer’s agitation.”
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## Extra Tips for Cap Longevity
– **Pre-Test Colors**: Dab a small amount of detergent on an inconspicuous spot to check for color bleeding.
– **Odor Control**: Add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse cycle or spray the interior with a 1:1 vinegar-water mix post-wash.
– **Storage**: Store caps on a rack or shelf, not stacked, to avoid crushing the bill or crown.
– **Regular Maintenance**: Spot clean between deep washes to reduce wear.
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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I wash any cap in the dishwasher?**
A: No, only caps made of durable materials like cotton or polyester with plastic bills are safe. Avoid wool, leather, straw, or caps with cardboard bills or delicate embellishments.
**Q: Will the dishwasher ruin my cap’s shape?**
A: Not if you use the top rack, a gentle cycle, and a cap frame (optional). Removing it before the drying cycle also helps preserve its shape.
**Q: What detergent should I use?**
A: Use a mild, bleach-free dishwasher detergent or a tablespoon of borax. Avoid laundry detergent, as it’s not designed for dishwashers and may leave residue.
**Q: How do I dry my cap after washing?**
A: Air dry it in a well-ventilated area, away from heat or sunlight. Place it over a rounded object like a bowl or jar to maintain its shape.
**Q: How often should I wash my cap?**
A: It depends on use—once every few months for occasional wear, or monthly if worn daily and exposed to sweat or dirt.
**Q: Can I wash my cap with dishes?**
A: It’s not recommended. Food residue could transfer to the cap, so run it solo or with other non-food items.
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By following these steps and tips, you can safely wash your caps in the dishwasher, keeping them fresh and ready for your next outing. Whether you’re a cap collector or just want to revive a trusty favorite, this method—when done with care—can be a game-changer.