What To Do When Your Hat Gets Wet: Quick Drying Tips

Have you ever been caught in an unexpected rain or spilled a drink on your favorite hat? Getting your hat wet can be a frustrating experience. Wet hats risk losing their shape, color, and sometimes even require costly replacements.

So, what’s the best way to dry your hat quickly and safely without causing damage?

In this blog, we'll dive into tried-and-tested techniques and share expert advice on drying different types of hats. Let's get started!

Why Proper Drying Matters for Hats

All hats, whether it’s a casual hat for a horse race or elegant wedding fascinators, rely on their shape and materials to look their best. Incorrect drying can cause:

• Losing the hat’s shape or structure
• Colors fading or running
• Damage to delicate materials like feathers, sinamay, or felt
• Mold and mildew if moisture lingers
• Shrinking or stiffening of fabric

Avoid quick fixes like high heat from a hairdryer or direct sunlight, which can deform and damage your hats. Instead, learn smart drying strategies tailored to your hat's material and construction.

Quick Drying Tips for Different Hat Types

1. General Drying Steps for All Hats

• Remove excess water: Gently pat the hat with a clean, dry towel to soak up as much water as possible. Avoid twisting.
• Use a rounded support: Place your hat over a bowl, balled-up towel, or hat form to preserve its shape as it dries.
• Air-dry naturally: Keep the hat in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A spot near an open window works well.
• Avoid heat sources: Hairdryers, radiators, or placing hats in dryers causes shrinking.

2. Drying Felt and Wool Hats (e.g., Church Hats, Derby Hats)

• Turn the hat upside down to rest on its crown, avoid placing it on the brim to prevent flattening.
• Use a dry towel inside the crown to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
• Let the air dry slowly at room temperature and avoid any forced drying.

3. Drying Straw Hats (e.g., Kentucky Derby Hats, Sun Hats)

• Carefully blot excess moisture without soaking the straw.
• Place the hat on a form or upside down on a soft towel.
• Never force dry with heat; let air dry slowly to prevent brittleness and warping.

4. Drying Delicate or Embellished Hats (e.g., Feather Fascinators)

• Dab gently with a dry cloth on wet spots, don’t rub or soak feathers or decorations.
• Lay flat on a clean towel in a spot with good airflow.
• Fluff feathers occasionally to maintain shape during drying.

Innovative Drying Techniques

• Fan drying: Hang your hat by a clipped strap or sweatband on a fan positioned in a well-ventilated room. This speeds up drying while maintaining shape.
• Paper clip hanger: Attach a paperclip to the hat’s back strap and hang it from a fan as demonstrated by hat care pros.
• Microfiber towels: Use microfiber towels, known for powerful moisture absorption, to gently press out water from fabric hats without soaking.

What NOT to Do When Drying Hats

Caring for Your Wet Hat: Additional Tips

• Always handle hats by the brim when wet, pinching the crown can cause creases or cracks.
• If the sweatband is wet, turn it outward after drying to air out odors and prevent staining.
• Store fully dried hats in breathable containers or hat boxes to maintain condition.
• Consider applying a fabric protector spray to water-resistant hats during dry seasons.

Related Topics You’ll Find Helpful

Check out how to gently remove stubborn stains to keep your hats spotless by exploring safe and easy stain removal methods for hats.

Also, if you’re unsure which headwear suits your style or occasion, the timeless elegance of hats or the playful charm of fascinators gain clearer insight by learning how to choose between fascinators and hats.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Wet Hat Care

Q: Can I speed up drying with heat?

A: No, heat dries hats unevenly and risks warping or shrinking.

Q: How long does it take to dry a wet hat?

A: Usually several hours to overnight, depending on material and humidity.

Q: Can I use a dryer to dry my hats?

A: Most dryers cause irreversible damage; air drying is best.

Q: What if my hat loses shape after getting wet?

A: Use a hat form or appropriately shaped object when drying to help restore shape.

Q: Are feathers ruined when wet?

A: Feathers can be delicate; gentle drying and fluffing help maintain their look.

Keep the Beauty Alive: Hat Care Made Simple

Your hats are more than just accessories, they’re statements of style, personality, and grace, employing the right drying techniques preserves their beauty and extends their life. Remember gentle drying, avoiding heat, using supporting forms, and caring for delicate embellishments.

If you want detailed stain removal tips for those accidental spills or stains after a day at a horse race or wedding, our easy home remedies will guide you through cleaning safely.

Keep your hats fresh, stylish, and ready for every occasion. 

Browse The Hat Girls’ curated selection of custom hats, designer fascinators, and expert care advice to maintain your collection perfectly. 

Shop now and step out with confidence wherever life takes you!