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If you are a cowboy hat lover, chances are you want to make sure that your favorite accessory lasts for years. Cowboy hats from americanhatmakers.com come in many different materials and styles, so proper care is essential to ensure it stays looking great.
Here are 10 tips on how to properly care for a cowboy hat to make it last:
1. Choose the Right Material:
The type of material used in the construction of your cowboy hat will determine how long it will last. Many people choose straw hats because they tend to be more economical and lightweight but may not stand up as well against weathering and wear and tear over time. Felt hats are usually more expensive but they provide better protection from the elements and have a longer lifespan than straw hats.
2. Store it properly:
It’s important to store your cowboy hat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can damage the material and because fading so it’s best to store your hat in a drawer or closet when not in use. You should also avoid storing it in a damp area as this will encourage mold and mildew growth which can ruin the look of your hat.
3. Handle with Care:
Your cowboy hat is an investment that needs to be handled with care. Avoid picking up or adjusting your hat by the brim as this can weaken the structure of the material over time resulting in premature wear and tear. When putting on your hat, hold onto both the crown and brim to avoid damaging the material.
4. Clean Regularly:
Cleaning your cowboy hat regularly is essential in order to maintain its appearance and quality. Spot clean any dirt or stains with a damp cloth and gentle detergent, being careful not to saturate the material. You can also purchase special formulas made just for cleaning cowboy hats that are safe for both felt and straw materials.
5. Avoid Excessive Heat:
Exposing your cowboy hat to excessive heat or direct sunlight can cause the material to shrink or warp over time, so it’s best to avoid these kinds of environments when wearing or storing your hat. If you need to shape it, use steam lightly from a distance rather than using curling tools or other heat-producing items.
6. Brush Gently:
Brushing your cowboy hat helps to keep it looking neat and free of dust and dirt, but be sure to use a soft-bristled brush so as not to damage the material. Straw hats in particular should be brushed very gently or else you could risk damaging the straw fibers.
7. Remove Sweat Stains:
Sweat stains can cause discoloration on both felt and straw cowboy hats so it’s important to remove them as soon as possible with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. For tougher stains, you can rub a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water into the stain before washing with warm water and gentle detergent.
8. Protect from Water:
Water can damage both felt and straw cowboy hats so it’s important to protect them when out in the rain. If you must wear your hat during a storm, try using a waterproofing spray or wax coating to keep it protected from the elements.
9. Wear the Right Way:
When wearing your cowboy hat, make sure that you are wearing it properly. The brim should be facing forward and not up or down as this can weaken its structure over time due to uneven pressure. Also, avoid crushing or squeezing the hat as this could cause damage to the material over time.
10. Take Good Care of Your Hatband:
The hatband is an important part of your cowboy hat as it helps to keep it in place and can also add a stylish touch. Be sure to check the hatband regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.
Conclusion:
When it comes to caring for your cowboy hat, there are a few simple steps you can take in order to keep it looking its best. Choose the right material for your needs, store it properly, handle with care, clean regularly, avoid excessive heat, brush gently and remove sweat stains as needed.
Photo by Pablo E. Ortiz on Unsplash