Cleaning Your Cowboy Hat

Cowboy hats are an iconic symbol of the American West, but keeping them clean and in good shape requires proper care and maintenance. Whether your cowboy hat is made of felt, straw, or another material, regular cleaning and storage is essential to ensure it maintains its distinctive shape and appearance for years to come.

How to Clean a Suede Cowboy Hat

To clean a suede cowboy hat

1. Regularly brush it with a soft bristle brush after each wear to remove dirt and dust.

2. Use an emery cloth to raise the nap on matted areas.

3. Remove oily stains by dusting the area with cornstarch or talcum powder, letting it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil, then brushing away the powder.

4. For tougher stains, spot treat using a mixture of mild detergent and water applied with a clean white cloth. Allow the hat to air dry, then brush to restore the nap.

5. Avoid getting suede excessively wet, but if it happens, shake off excess water, let it air dry on a hat form to prevent misshaping, and brush thoroughly once dry.

Removing Stubborn Stains from Felt Hats

To remove stubborn stains from felt hats

1. Sprinkle cornstarch, baby powder, or baking soda directly onto the stained areas and gently rub it in.

2. Let the powder sit for 5-30 minutes to absorb oils and lift the stain.

3. Brush away the powder and repeat if needed until the stain is gone.

4. For tougher stains, spot clean using a damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild soap or fabric stain remover like Woolite. Gently rub the stain using a circular motion, then rinse the cloth and wipe again to remove any cleaning solution.

5. Allow the hat to air dry completely. A makeup sponge or eraser can also help lift stains.

6. Always use cleaning tools that match your hat's color to avoid discoloration.

Waterproofing Your Wool Felt Hat

Wool felt hats are naturally water-resistant, but for added protection in wet weather, you can use a waterproofing spray designed specifically for wool felt. Bickmore and other brands offer felt waterproofing sprays that can be reapplied every few months for ongoing water resistance. However, even with waterproofing, wool felt hats will never be completely waterproof.

If your hat does get wet, shake off the excess water and allow it to air dry slowly at room temperature away from direct heat, which can cause the hat to lose its shape. Storing your hat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will also help maintain its appearance and shape over time.

Brushing and Dusting Techniques

To keep your cowboy hat clean and looking its best, regular brushing and dusting is essential:

1. Use a soft-bristled brush made of horsehair or natural fibers to gently remove dirt, dust, and debris.

2. Start at the crown and brush counterclockwise, working your way down to the brim.

3. For the underside of the brim, brush in a clockwise direction.

4. A lint roller can also help remove hair and lint from the hat's surface.

5. For stubborn dirt or mud, you can spot clean using a damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild soap, then allow the hat to air dry completely. Avoid using harsh detergents or getting the hat excessively wet, as this can damage the material.

Regular brushing and spot cleaning will help keep your cowboy hat looking sharp and extend its lifespan.

Maintaining Suede Texture

To maintain the lush, velvety texture of suede

1. Regularly brush with a soft bristle brush using gentle, short strokes in the direction of the nap.

2. A rubber suede eraser can help lift stains and restore texture.

3. If suede looks matted, use a clean toothbrush or suede brush to gently brush the surface in a circular motion to revive the nap.

4. Use a soft cloth to buff out scuff marks.

5. Avoid over-cleaning, as this can alter the texture.

With proper brushing and occasional use of a suede eraser, your suede will maintain its distinct texture and appearance.

Handling Sweat Stains

To remove stubborn sweat stains from clothing

1. Mix equal parts water and distilled white vinegar. Dab the stained area with the mixture using a clean cloth, gently rubbing in a circular motion. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water.

2. For tougher stains, create a paste with baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and salt. Apply directly to the stain, rub it in, and let it sit for at least an hour before washing as normal.

3. Lemon juice can also break down the proteins in sweat to remove stains.

4. Always treat stains as soon as possible and avoid using chlorine bleach or putting stained garments in the dryer, as heat can set the stain.

Dealing with Water Spots

To remove water spots from suede hats

1. Blot the area with a towel soaked in white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

2. Allow it to air dry.

3. Avoid getting suede excessively wet, as it can easily damage this delicate fabric and cause stiffness or discoloration.

4. If your suede hat does get wet, shake off the excess water and let it air dry on a hat form to prevent shrinking or misshaping. Once fully dry, brush the hat thoroughly with a suede brush to restore the nap and texture.

5. To protect suede from future water damage, you can apply a water repellent spray designed specifically for suede, following the product instructions carefully.

Removing Oil-Based Stains

To remove oil-based stains from clothing

1. Act quickly and avoid rubbing the stain, which can push the oil deeper into the fabric fibers.

2. Blot the excess oil with a paper towel or cloth, then apply a few drops of liquid dish soap directly to the stain.

3. Gently work the soap into the fabric with your fingers, then rinse thoroughly with the hottest water safe for the garment.

4. For stubborn stains, mix a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before washing as usual in the warmest water recommended.

5. Always air dry after treating an oil stain, as machine drying can set any remaining stain.

Using Specialized Hat Cleaners

Specialized hat cleaners can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors while protecting fabric and shape:

1. Many kits include a gentle foaming cleaner that lifts off grime without harsh scrubbing, and a soft bristle brush to work the cleaner into the fabric. Some also come with hat cages for safely washing in the washing machine or dishwasher.

2. Follow product instructions carefully and test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won't damage the material.

3. Apply the cleaner according to directions, using the included brush if provided.

4. For spot cleaning, use the cleaner on a damp cloth and gently dab or rub stained areas.

5. Allow the hat to air dry completely before wearing.

While specialized cleaners can be convenient, many experts believe you can achieve similar results using common household cleaners like mild detergent, white vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide.

Choosing the Right Waterproofing Spray

When choosing a waterproofing spray for your suede or leather cowboy hat:

1. Look for a product specifically designed for the material. Sprays made for suede and nubuck are ideal, as they provide water resistance without altering color or texture.

2. Silicone-free formulas are best to avoid residue that attracts dirt.

3. Opt for a non-toxic, water-based spray that allows the material to breathe while repelling moisture.

4. Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first and follow application instructions carefully, as over-saturating can lead to staining or discoloration.

5. Reapply every few months or as needed, depending on frequency of exposure to moisture.

With the right waterproofing spray, you can protect your cowboy hat from rain and stains while maintaining its unique texture and appearance.

Applying Waterproofing Treatment

To apply waterproofing treatment to your suede or leather cowboy hat:

1. Thoroughly brush the hat with a suede brush to remove any dirt or debris and raise the nap.

2. In a well-ventilated area, hold the waterproofing spray about 6 inches away from the hat and apply a light, even coat over the entire surface. Avoid over-saturating the material.

3. Allow the first coat to dry completely, then apply a second light coat for added protection.

4. Let the hat dry naturally for at least 24 hours for the treatment to fully cure and provide maximum water resistance.

5. Reapply every 4-6 weeks, or more frequently if regularly exposed to moisture or harsh weather.

With proper application and regular maintenance, a high-quality waterproofing treatment will help keep your cowboy hat looking great and protected from the elements.

Restoring Suede Nap

To restore the nap on flattened or matted suede:

1. Gently brush the surface with a soft bristle suede brush, using light pressure and short, quick strokes in multiple directions to lift the fibers.

2. For stubborn areas, use a clean toothbrush or nylon bristle brush to carefully brush the nap in a circular motion.

3. If brushing alone doesn't restore the nap, lightly steam the suede using a handheld garment steamer or the steam from an iron held slightly above the surface, being careful not to touch the suede directly. The heat and moisture will help lift the flattened fibers.

4. After steaming, let the suede air dry completely, then use a suede brush or soft cloth to gently brush the nap in a consistent direction, restoring the original texture.

With regular brushing and occasional steaming as needed, you can keep your suede looking plush and velvety, even after extended wear.

Dry Cleaning Felt Hats

While it may be tempting to take your felt cowboy hat to the dry cleaner, most hat care experts advise against it. Dry cleaning chemicals can be too harsh for the delicate fibers in felt hats, potentially causing damage or discoloration.

Instead, clean your felt hat at home using gentle methods:

1. Regularly brush the hat with a soft bristle brush to remove dust and dirt.

2. For light stains, use a damp cloth or sponge to spot clean, being careful not to soak the felt.

3. For tougher stains, gently rub in a small amount of cornstarch or baking soda, let it sit for a few minutes to absorb oil or grease, then brush it away.

4. For deeper cleaning, carefully hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent like Woolite, then rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry. Handle a wet felt hat with care to avoid misshaping. Never put it in the washing machine or dryer.

With proper at-home cleaning and maintenance, you can keep your felt cowboy hat looking great without resorting to dry cleaning.

Cleaning Your Stetson Hat

To clean a Stetson hat at home

1. Brush the hat counterclockwise with a soft bristle brush to remove dust and dirt, starting at the left side.

2. For stubborn stains on felt hats, sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder on the area and gently rub it in, letting it sit for 5-30 minutes to absorb oils before brushing away.

3. Avoid liquid cleaners on light-colored felt hats. For water or grease stains, clean using baby talc or cornstarch.

4. For deeper cleaning, hand wash a felt hat in cool water with a mild detergent like Woolite, then rinse thoroughly and air dry.

5. If your Stetson gets wet, shake off excess water, flip down the sweatband, and let it air dry away from heat to prevent shrinkage and maintain shape.

6. For straw hats, clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water solution, or use baby wipes, then allow to air dry.

Always store your Stetson in a hat box or upside down on its crown to prevent flattening the brim. With regular brushing and careful spot cleaning, you can keep your Stetson looking great for years to come.

Deodorizing Your Cowboy Hat

To clean a stinky cowboy hat

1. Brush off any loose dirt or debris using a soft bristled brush, going in a counterclockwise direction.

2. For the sweatband, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb oils and odors, letting it sit for a few hours before brushing away the excess.

3. If the odor persists, try rubbing a dryer sheet on the hat's interior and leaving it tucked inside the sweatband to freshen it up.

4. For tougher smells, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, dab the solution on the hat's interior using a clean cloth, then allow it to air dry completely. Avoid getting the hat excessively wet.

5. Sprinkling baking soda inside the hat and letting it sit overnight can also help neutralize stubborn odors.

6. To prevent future odors, store your hat in a cool, dry place with good ventilation when not wearing it.

With regular cleaning and proper storage, you can keep your cowboy hat smelling fresh and looking great.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.