# How to Wash Hats in the Dishwasher: Tips for Safe and Effective Cleaning
Hats are more than just accessories—they shield us from the sun, add flair to our outfits, and sometimes carry sentimental value. Over time, though, sweat, dirt, and oils can build up, leaving them looking worn and dingy. While hand washing is a tried-and-true method, it’s not always the most convenient. Enter the dishwasher: an unexpected yet surprisingly effective tool for cleaning hats, especially baseball caps. This article dives deep into how to wash hats in the dishwasher safely and effectively, drawing from expert advice and practical tips to ensure your headwear stays in top shape. From preparation to drying, we’ll cover every step, plus extras like hat types, detergent choices, and common pitfalls to avoid.
## Why Use a Dishwasher to Wash Hats?
Washing machines can be too harsh, twisting and warping a hat’s shape, while hand washing takes time and elbow grease. A dishwasher, however, offers a gentler alternative. “Dishwashers generally heat up to quite high temperatures to kill foodborne bacteria and remove stubborn grease,” explains Yessica Bello, a cleaning expert at Bello’s Cleaning, “but with the right settings, they can clean hats without the aggressive tumbling of a washer” [(( Homes & Gardens ))]. The key is control—using a gentle cycle and cool water to protect the hat’s structure while still getting it clean.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Hats in the Dishwasher
### Step 1: Check the Hat’s Material and Care Label
Not all hats are dishwasher-safe. Before you start, inspect the care tag inside your hat. “Materials like cotton or synthetics are safe to put inside your dishwasher, but cardboard or wool could get damaged,” advises the team at wikiHow [(( wikiHow ))]. Baseball caps made of cotton or polyester are typically sturdy enough, while delicate materials like straw, leather, or vintage hats with cardboard brims should be hand-washed instead. If the tag says “hand wash only,” skip the dishwasher to avoid disaster.
### Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
For hats with sweat stains or grime, a little pre-treatment goes a long way. Sophia Grant from useactive.com suggests, “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” [(( useactive.com ))]. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then rinse lightly with water. This step ensures stubborn spots don’t survive the wash cycle.
### Step 3: Prepare the Dishwasher
Make sure your dishwasher is clean and empty—no leftover food or greasy dishes should share space with your hat. “Check for food residue, wipe down your machine, and don’t wash your hat with a load of dirty dishes,” advises Asurion’s guide on appliance care [(( Asurion ))]. Place the hat on the top rack, where it’s farthest from the heating element and less exposed to intense water pressure.
### Step 4: Secure the Hat
To keep your hat’s shape intact, consider using a hat frame or cage. “A dishwasher hat rack, also known as a hat cage, could be your new best friend! This nifty tool is designed to keep your hats safe and in tip-top shape during the wash,” says A. Ditta from WashDryDazzle [(( WashDryDazzle ))]. If you don’t have one, prop the hat over the prongs on the top rack or secure it with flexible straps or clips to prevent it from flopping around.
### Step 5: Choose the Right Detergent
Dishwasher detergent isn’t always fabric-friendly, so pick wisely. “Avoid any dish detergents with lemon or bleach since this could change your hat’s color,” warns wikiHow. Instead, use a mild, bleach-free option like 1 tablespoon of Borax or a non-toxic laundry detergent. Donna Chambers, a clothing expert at Sensacalm, adds, “Feel free to use your usual detergent, but check to confirm that it hasn’t got any bleach. Avoid detergents containing citric acid, too, as that can damage the fabric” [(( Homes & Gardens ))].
### Step 6: Set the Cycle
Run a gentle, cold-water cycle—hot water can shrink or warp your hat. “Select the shortest, coldest cycle on your dishwasher and run the load. Don’t run the drying cycle,” advises Asurion. If your machine allows, turn off the heated drying option entirely. High heat is the enemy of hats, especially those with plastic components like adjustable straps.
### Step 7: Air Dry Properly
Once the cycle ends, remove the hat immediately. “After washing your hat in the dishwasher, let it air dry naturally. You can place it over a round object, like a coffee canister or a balled-up towel, to maintain its shape as it dries,” suggests WashDryDazzle. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors, and never toss it in a dryer. Let it sit in a well-ventilated spot for 24-48 hours until fully dry.
## Which Hats Can You Wash in the Dishwasher?
Not every hat is a candidate for this method. Here’s a quick breakdown:
– **Safe**: Baseball caps, trucker hats, visors, and synthetic-material hats (cotton, polyester). These hold up well to water and moderate heat.
– **Not Safe**: Wool hats, leather, suede, straw, or vintage caps with cardboard brims. These can shrink, disintegrate, or lose shape.
“Generally speaking, the best types of hats to use for this trick are baseball caps, visors, and synthetic material hats,” notes Donna Chambers. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and hand-wash.
## Extra Tips for Success
– **Hat Frames**: Investing in a plastic hat frame (available online) can make a big difference in maintaining shape. They’re especially handy for curved bills.
– **Eco-Friendly Options**: Utopia.org recommends using “a natural, gentle, vegan, and eco-friendly alternative—like castile soap” to minimize environmental impact [(( Utopia ))].
– **Frequency**: Wash hats every few months or monthly if heavily used (e.g., during sports or workouts).
– **Spot Cleaning First**: For delicate hats, spot clean with a mild solution instead of risking the dishwasher.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
– **Using Hot Water**: Shrinks fabrics and warps plastic parts.
– **Mixing with Dishes**: Food residue can stain your hat.
– **Skipping the Top Rack**: The bottom rack is too close to the heating element, risking melting or deformation.
– **Overloading Detergent**: Too much can leave residue or fade colors.
## Beyond Baseball Caps: Other Hat-Cleaning Insights
For trucker hats with mesh backs, the dishwasher works well but requires extra care to avoid snagging. “Since some hats can’t go in the washing machine due to aggressive spinning cycles, a dishwasher is a friendlier option,” says Dalix [(( Dalix ))]. Straw hats, meanwhile, are better off with a quick hose-down and air dry, per Your Life Well Organized.
## FAQ: Your Dishwasher Hat-Washing Questions Answered
**Q: Is it really safe to wash hats in the dishwasher?**
A: Yes, for sturdy hats like baseball caps made of cotton or polyester. Just use a gentle cycle, cool water, and a mild detergent. Delicate materials like wool or leather should be avoided.
**Q: Can I use regular dish soap?**
A: Avoid dish soaps with bleach or lemon—they can discolor or damage fabric. Opt for a mild, fabric-safe detergent instead.
**Q: How often should I wash my hats?**
A: Every few months for light use, or monthly if worn regularly during sweaty activities.
**Q: What if I don’t have a hat frame?**
A: Secure the hat to the top rack with clips or prop it over the prongs. You can also shape it over a bowl or towel while drying.
**Q: Will the dishwasher ruin the hat’s shape?**
A: Not if you follow the steps—use the top rack, a gentle cycle, and air dry properly. A hat frame adds extra protection.
**Q: Can I dry my hat in the dishwasher’s heated cycle?**
A: No, heat can shrink or deform it. Always air dry to preserve the shape and fabric.
With these tips, your hats can come out of the dishwasher looking fresh and ready for action. It’s a time-saving hack that, when done right, keeps your favorite headwear in prime condition—no scrubbing required!