How to Care for Your Summer Hat (So It Keeps Looking Amazing)
Your go-to guide for keeping your favorite warm-weather headwear fresh, stylish, and ready for anything.
Let’s be honest: summer is the season to show off your favorite hats. Whether you're walking along the boardwalk in a classic Panama or exploring the great outdoors in a rugged safari style, a good summer hat doesn’t just top off your outfit—it makes it.
But here's the thing: between sunshine, sweat, sand, and stuffing hats into travel bags, even the best-made styles can take a beating. And at Hats in the Belfry, we want your summer hats to stay sharp—not just for the season, but for many summers to come. That’s why we’ve put together this care guide, full of tips to keep your hat looking (and smelling) like new.
Why Your Summer Hat Needs a Little Extra TLC
Summer hats are made from lighter materials—straw, cotton, linen—that breathe beautifully and keep you cool. But those same fabrics are also more prone to the not-so-pretty side of summer: sweat stains, sun fading, dust, and the occasional suitcase squash.
A little routine care can go a long way. It keeps your hat clean, helps it hold its shape, and makes sure you always look polished—no matter how high the temps climb.
Cleaning 101: Know Your Material
Every hat’s different, and how you clean it really depends on what it’s made of. Here’s a quick guide for handling the most common summer styles:
Straw Hats
These need a gentle touch. Use a soft brush or a lint roller to dust off your hat regularly. If you spot a stain, a damp cloth and a little mild soap usually do the trick—but don’t soak it. Straw and water don’t mix well, and too much moisture can warp the shape.
Cotton or Fabric Hats
First thing’s first: check the care label. Some cotton hats can be hand-washed, but skip the hot water or harsh detergent. Cold water and a gentle soap will keep things fresh. Let it air dry on a flat surface to keep the shape—never throw it in the dryer.
Linen or Blended Hats
Spot-cleaning is your best bet here. Dab (don’t rub!) with a clean, damp cloth to lift any marks. If things get tricky, a professional cleaner can help without damaging the delicate weave.
Beat the Sweat & Stay Fresh
We all sweat in the summer—it’s just part of the season. But your hat doesn’t have to hang onto the evidence. A few tricks:
Try a removable liner or sweatband inside your hat to soak up moisture before it hits the fabric. After a long day out, don’t stuff your hat into a bag—air it out somewhere cool and dry. If odors sneak in, sprinkle a little baking soda inside the crown, leave it overnight, and shake it out in the morning. Works like a charm.
Travel Smart: How to Pack Your Hat
We’ve all been there—you pull your favorite hat out of your bag, and it’s crushed beyond recognition. Here’s how to avoid that heartbreak:
First, fill the crown with soft clothing (socks or t-shirts work great). Then, place the hat upside down in your suitcase, and surround the brim with more clothes for support. If you're a frequent traveler, consider investing in a crushable style—like a rollable Panama or one of our packable fedoras. They're made to bounce back from just about anything.
Want to make travel even easier? Take a peek at our travel-ready styles 👉 Shop Packable Hats
Don’t Forget: Your Hat Needs Sun Protection, Too
Yes, your hat protects you from the sun—but it needs a little protection as well. Try to store your hat out of direct sunlight when you’re not wearing it. Leaving it on a car dashboard or sunny windowsill can cause fading or even warping over time. For fabric hats, a UV-protective spray can help maintain the material and color, especially if you're outside often.
Store It Right Between Adventures
When you’re not wearing your hat, how you store it really matters. The goal? Keep its shape and keep it clean. Use a shelf or a hat box so it isn’t crushed under other items. For long-term storage, hat stands or wall hooks are a great way to preserve the structure. And if you absolutely have to stack hats, separate them with something soft—like a t-shirt or scarf—so the brims don’t get bent out of shape.
Final Thought: A Little Love Goes a Long Way
Your summer hat isn’t just another accessory—it’s part of your warm-weather personality. It’s been with you on beach walks, brunches, road trips, and rooftop nights. Giving it just a bit of regular care will keep it looking its best and lasting much longer.
At Hats in the Belfry, we design and curate hats that are made to go the distance—but it’s your care and attention that makes them truly timeless.
Explore our full summer collection, and find your next go-to look at HatsintheBelfry.com because nothing says summer quite like a well-loved, well-cared-for hat.
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As always, if you have any questions on styling or need help finding your perfect summer hat, we're always happy to help!
Feel free to reach out to our customer service at 888-999-HATS (4287) or by email at hats@hatsinthebelfry.com.
Want to come see us and shop in person? Come visit us at 103 Main Street in Downtown Annapolis!
