Here's our guide to the best hats for every holiday this summer 2026.
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Flat caps are designed to last for years, but proper care is key to maintaining their shape, colour, and quality. Different materials -wool, tweed, linen, leather - require slightly different cleaning approaches.
Spot Clean: Dab gently with a clean, damp cloth and mild detergent if necessary.
Brush After Wear: A light brush will prevent dust settling into the fibres.
Steam for Shape: A gentle waft of steam can refresh and help reshape the crown if needed.
Avoid Machine Washing: Wool caps should never go in the washing machine as they can shrink and lose their shape.
Spot Treat: Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild detergent to treat marks.
Air Dry: Always dry naturally away from direct heat.
Machine Washing? Only if the care label allows, most quality linen caps should still be spot cleaned to preserve shape.
Wipe with Damp Cloth: Avoid soaking leather, use a barely damp cloth.
Condition Occasionally: A small amount of leather conditioner keeps it supple.
Avoid Heat Sources: Never dry leather caps on radiators or in direct sunlight.
In most cases, no. Machine washing risks shrinking, warping, and damaging the brim. Always check the care label, but for high-quality caps, professional dry cleaning (for wool/tweed) or careful spot cleaning is safest.
White or pale caps can show marks more easily: