Cleaning & Storage Tips  

We have had a few customers asking us how to clean their rain hats. So in response to these queries and before anyone puts their hat in the washing machine (a big no no!) here's all you need to know.

A quality waterproof hat is an investment, providing both style and protection from the elements. Whether you own a waxed cotton hat, a tweed hat, or a velour hat, proper care ensures it stays looking great and maintains its water-resistant properties for years to come. Here’s a complete guide on cleaning, maintaining, and storing your waterproof hats which have been passed onto us from our milliners. 

• Avoid Machine Washing: Most waterproof hats should be cleaned by hand to maintain their material integrity.
• Keep Away from Direct Heat: Never use a tumble dryer or radiator as excessive heat can warp or damage the fabric.
• Store Properly: Shape your hat correctly before storage to prevent deformation.
• Reapply Waterproofing: Over time, some materials may need reproofing to maintain water resistance. As our ethos is to support British industries we would recommend British made reproofing wax, which includes makes such as Oxford Blue, Walker & Hawks or Peregrine. 

How to Clean & Maintain a Waxed Cotton Hat

Waxed hats are popular for their durability and water resistance. However, they require specific care to maintain their wax coating.

Cleaning:

✔ Remove dirt with a damp cloth – Wipe the surface gently with cold water and a soft cloth. Avoid using soap, as it can break down the wax coating.
✔ Use a soft brush – If needed, use a soft-bristle brush to remove dried mud or dust.
✔ Spot clean stains – For tougher stains, lightly rub the area with a damp sponge, but avoid scrubbing too hard.

Re-waxing Your Hat:

✔ Apply a fresh layer of wax every 6-12 months to restore water resistance.
✔ Use a tin of wax dressing  and apply a small amount using a cloth.
✔ Gently heat the wax before application to make it spread more easily. Let the hat dry naturally overnight.

Storage:

✔ Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

✔ Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew

How to Clean & Maintain a Tweed Waterproof Hat

Our tweed hats Michelle & Clara hats have been Teflon coated to make it water resistant

Cleaning:

✔ Brush off dirt regularly – Use a lint roller or a soft clothes brush to remove dust and debris.
✔ Spot clean with cold water – Dampen a cloth with cold water and blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, as tweed can fray.
✔ Use mild soap sparingly – If needed, mix a small amount of mild soap with water, dab gently, then wipe with clean water.

Storage:

✔ Store in a cool, dry area with good air circulation.
✔ Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew.
✔ If the hat loses its shape, stuff it with tissue paper to maintain its form.

How to Clean & Maintain a Velour Waterproof Hat

Velour hats have a luxurious, soft finish but still offer water resistance when treated properly.

Cleaning:

✔ Shake off dust and dirt – Lightly shake or tap the hat to remove surface particles.
✔ Use a soft-bristled brush – Gently brush the hat in the same direction as the fabric's nap to maintain its smooth appearance.
✔ For stains, use steam cleaning – Hold the hat over a steaming kettle or use a garment steamer, then blot with a soft cloth. Avoid excessive moisture.
✔ Never submerge in water – Velour should not be soaked; instead, spot clean lightly with a damp cloth.

Storage:

✔ Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading.
✔ Avoid placing heavy items on top of the hat, as velour can lose its structure over time.

Bonus Tip!

If your wax hat or velour hat looks creased gently blow dry it with a hair dryer and the crease line will disappear. Thank you Mijori Creative for giving us this bit of advice!

In Conclusion

By following these care and maintenance tips, your waxed, tweed, or velour waterproof hat will stay in excellent condition for years. Whether you wear it for fashion, outdoor adventures, or everyday protection from the rain, proper cleaning and storage will ensure it remains functional and stylish.