How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher Without Damaging It

Baseball caps help to provide welcome relief from the heat, glare, rain, and wind, and whether you prefer to show love for your favorite team, advertise for a local business, or inject some humor with a favorite saying, you're not alone: baseball caps are the most common type of headgear worn by all ages across the country. Over time, constant exposure to the elements and the dirt and oils from your hair and skin can leave your hat looking dirty, but Mr. Appliance® has the perfect solution—wash it! Learn how to wash a hat in the dishwasher to keep it looking as good as new and to keep it safe from the damage from friction and wear associated with cleaning it in a traditional washing machine.

How to Wash a Hat in the Dishwasher

You will need:

• A dishwasher
• Dishwasher detergent that does not contain bleach and is not lemon-scented
• Laundry additive or stain remover (optional)
• Baseball cap frame (optional)

Instructions for washing hats in the dishwasher:

Step One: Depending on the condition of the hat and whether it is heavily soiled or stained from sweat or other substances, pre-treating the hat with a liquid or paste can help to boost the effectiveness of the wash cycle and have a positive outcome on the final result. After applying the product to the hat, wait for 30 minutes to allow it to break down the dirt and oils.

Step Two: If using a specially designed plastic frame, place the hat inside and set the frame on the top shelf of the empty dishwasher. If you are washing one or more hats without a frame, secure them more firmly by placing the adjustable strap around one of the protruding pegs, or clip the hat directly to the sides or bottom of the rack using clothespins or binder clips.

Step Three: Add your favorite dishwashing detergent to the soap dispenser in the usual quantity, making sure it contains no bleach or citric acid, which may damage the fabric.

Step Four: Set the appliance to a normal wash cycle using warm (not hot) water, making sure the heat dry option is turned off.

Step Five: After the cycle is completed, remove the hat frame or hat from the dishwasher and set it aside to dry overnight. Place the hat in an area that has adequate airflow, and in a position that will allow it to keep its shape while drying. For flimsier fabrics, you may benefit from setting the cap on top of an overturned bowl that is about the same size as the interior surface.

What Else Can You Wash in the Dishwasher?

If you were surprised to learn about washing hats in the dishwasher, you may be even more surprised to learn about these other common household items that can be placed on the top rack along with lightly soiled dishes on the bottom rack, or all by themselves:

• Silk flowers
• Vacuum cleaner attachments
• Hairbrushes
• Kitchen sponges and brushes
• Microwave oven turntables
• Switch plate covers
• Toothbrush holders
• Bath toys
• Silicon trivets and oven mitts
• Makeup brushes
• Golf balls
• Shower poofs
• Mouthguards
• And more!

Dishwasher Maintenance with Mr. Appliance

With so many uses aside from cleaning your dishes, you'll want to keep your dishwasher in good repair—and you can extend the lifespan of this versatile appliance using these tips. For all your appliance repair needs including dishwasher repair, count on the experts at Mr. Appliance. Contact us online or call us today!