Baseball caps help to provide welcome relief from the heat, glare, rain, and wind, and whether you prefer to show love for your favorite team, advertise for a local business, or inject some humor with a favorite saying, you're not alone: baseball caps are the most common type of headgear worn by all ages across the country. Over time, constant exposure to the elements and the dirt and oils from your hair and skin can leave your hat looking dirty, but Mr. Appliance® has the perfect solution—wash it! Learn how to wash a hat in the dishwasher to keep it looking as good as new and to keep it safe from the damage from friction and wear associated with cleaning it in a traditional washing machine.
How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher
You will need:
- A dishwasher
- Dishwasher detergent that does not contain bleach and is not lemon-scented
- Laundry additive or stain remover (optional)
- Baseball cap frame (optional)
Instructions for washing hats in the dishwasher:
Step One: Depending on the condition of the hat and whether it is heavily soiled or stained from sweat or other substances, pre-treating the hat with a liquid or paste can help to boost the effectiveness of the wash cycle and have a positive outcome on the final result. After applying the product to the hat, wait for 30 minutes to allow it to break down the dirt and oils.
Step Two: If using a specially designed plastic frame, place the hat inside and set the frame on the top shelf of the empty dishwasher. If you are washing one or more hats without a frame, secure them more firmly by placing the adjustable strap around one of the protruding pegs, or clip the hat directly to the sides or bottom of the rack using clothespins or binder clips.
Step Three: Add your favorite dishwashing detergent to the soap dispenser in the usual quantity, making sure it contains no bleach or citric acid, which may damage the fabric.
Step Four: Set the appliance to a normal wash cycle using warm (not hot) water, making sure the heat dry option is turned off.
Step Five: After the cycle is completed, remove the hat frame or hat from the dishwasher and set it aside to dry overnight. Place the hat in an area that has adequate airflow, and in a position that will allow it to keep its shape while drying. For flimsier fabrics, you may benefit from setting the cap on top of an overturned bowl that is about the same size as the interior surface.
What Else Can You Wash in the Dishwasher?
If you were surprised to learn about washing hats in the dishwasher, you may be even more surprised to learn about these other common household items that can be placed on the top rack along with lightly soiled dishes on the bottom rack, or all by themselves:
- Silk flowers
- Vacuum cleaner attachments
- Hairbrushes
- Kitchen sponges and brushes
- Microwave oven turntables
- Switch plate covers
- Toothbrush holders
- Bath toys
- Silicon trivets and oven mitts
- Makeup brushes
- Golf balls
- Shower poofs
- Mouthguards
- And more!
Dishwasher Maintenance with Mr. Appliance
With so many uses aside from cleaning your dishes, you'll want to keep your dishwasher in good repair—and you can extend the lifespan of this versatile appliance using these tips. For all your appliance repair needs including dishwasher repair, count on the experts at Mr. Appliance. Contact us online or call us today!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Appliance is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Mr. Appliance location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher Without Damaging It
Decades of experience, highly skilled service professionals, and a commitment to exceptional customer service have made Mr. Appliance a trusted leader in appliance maintenance and repairs. Our commitment to keeping your appliances up and running includes using our many years of experience and expertise to answer your questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about washing your hat in the dishwasher.
Can I wash hats in the dishwasher?
Yes, you can wash hats in the dishwasher. Washing hats in the dishwasher without a dishwasher-safe hat rack or cage (a plastic frame that holds the shape of the cap to prevent warping during the cycle) could cause them to lose their shape or get damaged.
How do I wash a hat in the dishwasher without damaging it?
To wash a hat in the dishwasher without damaging it, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Secure the hat in a hat rack or cage
Step 2: Place the hat on the top rack
Step 3: Use cold water and set your dishwasher to a gentle or delicate cycle.
Step 4: Skip the heated dry cycle
Step 5: Avoid using harsh detergents—opt for mild or delicate dish soap.
What type of hats can I wash in the dishwasher?
Most baseball caps, trucker and golf hats, and visors with plastic brims, along with similarly structured hats made of moisture-wicking materials, or cotton and polyester, can typically be washed in the dishwasher using a hat cage or rack to help maintain their shape. However, hats made of delicate materials, like wool or those with intricate designs, may not hold up in the dishwasher. For best results, read and follow the hat label for care instructions.
Can I use regular dishwasher detergent when washing hats?
It’s best to avoid using regular, harsh dishwasher detergent when washing hats, as it can damage the fabric or cause discoloration in addition to producing too many suds. Instead, choose a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates. If you're using a hat cage, you can soak your hat in warm water and mild soap first, then run a short rinse-only cycle in the dishwasher (with no detergent at all) to refresh and rinse your hat thoroughly.
How do I maintain the shape of my hat when washing it in the dishwasher?
To preserve the shape of your hat while washing it in the dishwasher, place it in a dishwasher-safe hat rack or cage. This will keep the hat in a fixed position, preventing it from becoming misshapen. Using cold water and a gentle wash cycle can help minimize wear and tear on the hat’s fabric.
Are there alternatives to washing my hat in the dishwasher?
If you’re hesitant about washing your hat in the dishwasher, hand washing is an option. Simply use mild soap and cold water to scrub the hat gently. Alternatively, you can place your hat in a hat cage in the washing machine and launder it using a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent.
