The Ultimate Care Guide: Cleaning Wool and Felt Hats

In the ever-changing British climate, a well-crafted wool or felt hat isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s an investment in warmth, style, and heritage. Whether you’re sporting a classic fedora on a chilly London morning or a trilby at a summer garden party, proper care ensures your hat retains its shape, finish, and character for years to come.

Difference Between Wool and Felt Hats

Wool hats are made from tightly woven fibres, providing warmth and resilience, while felt hats result from pressing and bonding wool (or animal fur) fibres using heat, moisture, and pressure. Knowing whether your hat is wool or felt helps you choose the proper cleaning technique.

Why Proper Hat Care Matters

Neglect can cause lint build-up, sweat stains, and misshapen brims. In damp UK weather, moisture may shrink wool or warp felt without proper drying. Regular care not only preserves appearance but also extends longevity, maintaining your hat as a trusted companion for all seasons. Never attempt to speed dry your hat with heat—expert hatters warn this damages fibres and distorts the crown.

For more advice on everyday care, see our Hat Fit & Maintenance guide.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Wool and Felt Hats

• Soft-bristled hat brush or toothbrush for brushing (always counter-clockwise)

• Lint roller or masking tape to pick up dust

• Mild, non-bleach detergent (e.g., Woolite) for hand-washing wool

• Clean cloths or sponges for spot cleaning

• Cornstarch or baking soda for oily marks

• Hat box or supportive form for storage

• Steaming kettle (optional) for reshaping

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Wool Hats (UK)

1. Fill a basin with cold water and a teaspoon of mild detergent.

2. Spot test an inconspicuous area for colourfastness.

3. Use a soft brush to loosen dirt, allowing stains to sit 15 minutes before immersing.

4. Submerge the hat and soak — up to 30 minutes; check hourly for deep stains.

5. Rinse with cold water and gently squeeze out moisture (do not wring).

6. Pat dry with a towel and air dry away from sunlight or heat sources.

Should You Machine-Wash a Hat?

Machine washing risks shrinking or distorting your hat. If necessary, choose the gentlest cycle, cold water, place in a garment bag, and air dry. For best results, hand washing is strongly advised; and professional help is best for valuable hats.

Dry Cleaning & Spot Treatment

For light dirt or marks, use a hat brush or lint roller, then gently dab stains with a barely damp cloth or sponge. Oily stains respond to cornstarch left for a few hours before brushing. Treat leather sweatbands occasionally with saddle soap, avoiding contact with the felt.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Felt Hat (UK)

Felt hats are delicate, with compacted fibres that require consistent care.

• Daily care: After each wear, sweep with a soft brush and use a lint roller.

• Storage: Place felt hats upside down on the crown in a hat box or cool, dry area, away from heat or sunlight.

• Spot cleaning: For small stains, gently rub with a barely damp cloth in a counter-clockwise motion. For oily marks, apply cornstarch/baking soda for 20+ minutes, then brush off.

• Hand washing: In rare cases, use cold water and mild soap, spot test, brush gently, soak for 30 minutes, rinse, blot dry, and allow to air dry.

• Fur felt: Only dry clean; use steam for gentle reshaping and always consult a professional for stubborn stains or structural fixes.

Hat Care Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

• Handle your hat by the brim, not the crown.

• Brush gently counter-clockwise and use a lint roller regularly.

• Store hats in a cool, dry, and shaded place.

• Air dry hats naturally, always brim down.

Don’t:

• Soak your hat in water or expose to high humidity.

• Use regular brushes or abrasive tools.

• Apply direct heat (hairdryer, radiator).

• Machine wash unless you accept potential risk.

Storage & Maintenance for Long-Term Durability

Proper storage preserves shape and finish:

• Use a hat box or head form to retain shape and fend off dust.

• Store hats upside down; avoid stacking.

• After wear, let hats ventilate.

• For misshapen brims, gentle steam from a kettle about 12 inches away helps restore structure.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Sweat stains: Absorb perspiration with paper towels in the sweatband, replacing as necessary. Treat felt stains with equal parts distilled vinegar and lukewarm water.

• Oil/makeup: Apply cornstarch or baking soda and brush away after several hours.

• Water damage: Shake off excess moisture and dry naturally with the brim down.

• Misshapen hats: Carefully use steam to re-shape, or consult a professional hatter for blocking.

• Shrinkage: Avoid heat exposure; try stretching gently when damp or go to a specialist.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional cleaning and blocking are recommended for delicate fur felt, significant stains, or deformed hats. Skilled cleaners can remove deep marks, re-block deformed brims, and even apply waterproofing treatments for extra protection.

Conclusion

A well-cared-for hat is a lasting style investment. By following this up-to-date UK hat care guide and maintaining consistent cleaning routines, you’ll ensure your favourite pieces stay sharp, comfortable, and ready for all seasons. For more style inspiration or to discover premium hats, explore the collections at Novella Hats.