Woven to Last: Hatcare For Your Favorite Straw Hat
When the sun starts shining and the temperatures climb, your straw hat becomes your go-to summer accessory. Whether it’s a wide-brimmed sun hat, a casual fedora, or a stylish boater, straw hats not only protect you from UV rays but also add instant charm to warm-weather outfits. But like all seasonal favorites, straw hats need a little TLC to stay looking fresh.
Here's your ultimate guide to keeping your straw hat in great shape from Memorial Day to Labor Day—and beyond.
1. Handle With (Straw) Care
Straw hats may look sturdy, but they’re surprisingly delicate. Always pick up your hat by the brim—not the crown. Grabbing the crown can weaken its structure over time and lead to cracking or misshaping. Use both hands when possible, and avoid pinching the hat unnecessarily.
If your hat has a flexible brim or a more relaxed weave, be especially gentle—natural materials like to be treated naturally.
2. Store Smart, Not Flat
When you're not wearing your straw hat, don’t toss it on the couch or flatten it under a pile of beach towels. Store your hat on a hat stand, upside down on the crown, or hung on a wide peg or hook. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can fade the color or dry out the straw, making it brittle.
For long-term storage (like between seasons), keep it in a breathable hat box or a cloth bag to protect it from dust and humidity.
3. Avoid Moisture and Heat
Straw and water? Not a great combo. While a little mist or light rain won’t necessarily ruin your hat, avoid getting it soaked. If your straw hat does get wet, reshape it gently and let it air-dry naturally—away from direct sunlight or heat sources like a hairdryer or radiator, which can warp or shrink the straw.
Pro tip: If you're caught in a summer downpour, gently blot the hat with a clean cloth, reshape the brim, and let it sit on a flat surface until dry.
4. Keep It Clean (Without Scrubbing)
Dust and surface dirt are part of straw hat life, but cleaning them is easy with the right tools. Use a soft-bristled brush or a clean, dry cloth to remove dust and lint. For spot cleaning, lightly dampen a cloth with water and mild soap, then gently dab—never scrub—the affected area.
Avoid soaking the hat or using harsh chemicals. For stubborn stains or delicate weaves, a professional hat cleaner is your best friend.
5. Shape It Up
If your brim starts to look a little wonky, you can coax it back into place with steam—very lightly. Hold the hat above a steaming kettle or a garment steamer (never directly on it), and gently reshape the brim with your fingers. Be cautious not to overdo it, especially with tightly woven or delicate straw.
Some hats even have a hidden wire edge in the brim to help with reshaping—check the tag or ask your hat maker.
6. Travel Tips for Straw Hats
Headed on vacation? You can still bring your favorite straw hat—just be smart about it. The best way to travel with a structured straw hat is to wear it or pack it in your carry-on. If you must pack it, fill the crown with soft clothing (like scarves or swimsuits), then place it upside down in your suitcase and pack other items around it to maintain the shape.
Alternatively, consider crushable straw styles made for travel—flexible, packable, and still fabulous.
Keep Your Cool (and Your Hat) All Summer
A straw hat is more than just a seasonal accessory—it’s a warm-weather essential. With the right care, your favorite straw topper can last for years of garden parties, beach days, and sunny strolls. Whether it’s a finely woven Panama or a laid-back raffia fedora, treat your straw hat right, and it’ll reward you with timeless style all summer long.
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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!
