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Have a scroll and discover some of our other articles, from press coverage to style guides and informational pieces.
A top hat is not only an investment in craftsmanship, it’s a piece of history. Whether made from rare silk plush or fine melusine felt, it deserves thoughtful care to preserve its condition for years to come.
At Lock & Co., we treat every top hat with the reverence it deserves. Below you’ll find our guide to storing, maintaining, and cleaning your hat, with special attention to antique silk.
While we always recommend professional cleaning for antique or valuable pieces, there are steps you can take to maintain your top hat between wears.
Gently brush in an anti-clockwise motion to remove dust and lint. Sometimes, cleaning fluids can be applied by experts.
Keep away from steam, rain, or damp cloths. Moisture can distort the shape and finish.
For a more thorough clean, we encourage you to visit to the shop or speak to us about specialist cleaning options.
As felt top hats (usually wool or fur) are sturdier, they can be lightly steamed over a boiling kettle to loosen dirt. You then brush it in short strokes in the direction of the fibres.
Can be used very lightly on felt hats, but not on silk plush.
Preservation is just as important as cleaning. A well-kept top hat can last generations.
Store your top hat in a fitted top hat box to prevent dust and protect its shape.
Helps maintain the crown's form during storage.
Avoid direct heat or sunlight, which may warp or fade the material.
If not stored in a box, always rest a silk top hat on its brim (right side up), with the crown pointing up into the air.
If you're heading to Ascot or a destination wedding:
What is a top hat?
How to measure for a top hat?
How should a top hat fit?
How to wear and style a top hat?
How to find the perfect top hats for Royal Ascot, weddings and formal events?
Have a scroll and discover some of our other articles, from press coverage to style guides and informational pieces.
Explore Lock & Co.'s guide to styling heritage hats with casual outfits.
To celebrate 350 years of Lock & Co. Hatters, two historic St James’s businesses have come together to create something entirely new.
Here's our guide to the best hats for every holiday this summer 2026.
If you're comparing a Panama hat vs a sun hat, you're not alone. While both are popular choices for warm weather, they differ in craftsmanship, materials, style and purpose.
In this guide, we'll explore the different types of summer hats, how to choose the right one and how to care for it so it lasts for many summers to come.
From classic Panamas to lightweight fedoras, these are the styles worth investing in for Summer 2026.
Whether you're travelling abroad, attending a garden party or simply enjoying the sunshine, these are the styles to consider for Summer 2026.
This year, Lock & Co. becomes an official licensee of Royal Ascot for the first time, a milestone that reflects our ongoing commitment to craftsmanship, heritage, and British ceremonial style.
At Lock & Co. Hatters, we see racing season as an opportunity to embrace timeless elegance, where the right hat doesn’t just complete a look, it defines it.
