How to wash & dry a wool Balmoral cap?

[unixken]

The headband of my wool Balmoral hat wicked up quite a bit of perspiration and body salts last weekend, and I'd like to launder the hat.

I suspect the best way is probably hand washing in the sink, lots of cool water, mild soap, rinse well, shape the hat, and let it air dry without wringing it out. I have a steamer to touch up any wrinkles later. Would that be the way to launder the hat? If not, is there a better/safer way to clean my hat? What's the best way to shape the hat while it dries?

Thanks in advance!

[Bill aka Mole]

Perhaps this might be of assistance. Jock would be the one in the know about this stuff. http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=57667 Read thru the entire posting about how to shape the balmoral.

[unixken]

That's a great thread for shaping the hat. (though I'm not looking to shrink the hat at all, as the fit is fine as it is.)

Does anyone have recommendations for a hat-safe soap?

[Arnot]

You could try this. I did and it works.

http://www.westcoastkilts.com/highlanddress-bonnets.php

[Jock Scot]

I have no idea, I just have a new one every thirty years or so.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

Washing? Your best bet is to have it dry cleaned. Saves on having to buy a new one every thirty years or so.

[SlackerDrummer]

I have no idea, I just have a new one every thirty years or so.

Aye, but you live in Scotland. You wash yours every time you go out in the rain.

[Jock Scot]

Aye, but you live in Scotland. You wash yours every time you go out in the rain.

Precisely!

[Pleater]

Try hair shampoo - you can even use one with conditioner, though I think that it doesn't wash quite as well.

Use just warm water and try to get it about the same temperature each time you wash or rinse. It is better if the hat - or whatever - is really dirty, to wash it several times, gently slooshing the warm water and detergent through the fabric until the water is discoloured and then drawing a new lot, and wash any scummy residue away between washes too.

If there is a decoration sewn onto the hat you might consider removing it and washing it separately if it is at all delicate, and if it will come off easily. It will reduce the wear and tear.

Wool prefers an acid pH so a splosh of white vinegar in the last rinse - it should be the 4th or 5th, really rinse out the detergent, will keep it happy. Squeeze the hat gently, then wrap it in a towel and squeeze several times changing to a bit of dry towel in between.

Leave to dry with a towel pressed into the hat to hold it the right shape, and smoothing out creases when still damp is easier than after it has dried out.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

[fcgeil]

Thanks for the tips, Anne. We can always count on you!