How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher Without Ruining It
Keep your hats fresh and clean by washing them in the dishwasher! Place them on the top rack, use a cold, gentle cycle, and let them air dry to maintain their shape. Avoid bleach-based detergents and heat drying. Try this trick for hassle-free hat cleaning!
Ever looked at your favorite hat and thought, ‘Wow, this could use a serious clean’? You’re not alone—a lot of us have! Hats soak up sweat, dirt, and all kinds of mystery stains over time. But before you toss it in the washing machine (or worse, the sink), there’s an easier way—your dishwasher!
Yep, you read that right. Your dishwasher isn’t just for dirty plates; it can freshen up your caps, too. But there’s a right way to do it, so let’s break it down.
Step 1: Check the Label
Not all hats can handle the dishwasher.
✔ Safe Materials: Cotton, polyester, and most synthetic fabrics.
✖ Avoid: Wool, felt, and hats with cardboard brims (these can warp or fall apart).
If the label says "hand wash only" or the hat already looks fragile, it’s best to skip this method.
Step 2: Use a Hat Frame (Optional but Recommended)
A hat frame holds your cap in shape throughout the wash cycle, preventing it from getting bent or misshapen. If you don’t have one, secure the hat between the dishwasher prongs or clip it with binder clips to maintain its form.
Step 3: Place It on the Top Rack
Always position your hat on the top rack to keep it away from the dishwasher’s heating element, which sits at the bottom. Excessive heat can warp plastic parts, shrink fabrics, or alter the hat’s shape.
Step 4: Use a Gentle, Bleach-Free Detergent
Choose your mild dish washing detergent that does not contain bleach, lemon, or citric acid, as these ingredients can cause discoloration or damage the fabric. If unsure, do a small patch test on the inner lining of the hat.
Step 5: Run a Cold, Gentle Cycle
Set your dishwasher to the shortest and coldest cycle available.
✔ Turn Off Heat-Dry: Heat can shrink the hat or weaken its structure.
✔ No Other Dishes: Run the cycle without any other items to avoid residue or food particles getting on your hat.
Step 6: Air Dry Properly
Once the cycle finishes, remove the hat before any heat drying begins. Place it over a jar, bowl, or hat stand to help it retain its shape. Let it air dry completely before wearing it again.
Bonus: Other Unexpected Items You Can Clean in the Dishwasher
If washing hats in the dishwasher surprised you, here are a few more items you can clean this way:
✔ Hairbrushes (without wooden handles)
✔ Makeup brushes
✔ Bath toys
✔ Golf balls
✔ Plastic sandals
Just like with hats, place these items on the top rack, use a gentle cycle, and remove them before heat drying.
Need Help with Your Dishwasher?
If your dishwasher isn’t performing well—whether it’s not cleaning properly, leaking, or making strange noises—A+ Appliance Repair & Maintenance is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment!
