Quick Answer
To keep your Hickory Crawdads cap looking new, hand wash it with mild detergent, reshape it while damp, and air dry away from heat. Avoid the dishwasher and washing machine to protect the structured fit and embroidery.
Why Hand Washing Beats Machine Washing
Fitted caps like the New Era 59Fifty have a structured fit and flat bill that can warp in a washing machine or dishwasher. The agitation and heat can also cause raised embroidery to fray or peel. Hand washing gives you control over the process and keeps the cap's shape intact.
Trucker caps with mesh panels, such as the '47 Garner Trucker, are especially vulnerable because the mesh can snag or stretch in a machine. A gentle hand wash is the safest method for all cap types.
Dealing with Sweat Stains and Odors
Sweat and body oils are the main culprits for discoloration on the inner band and the front of the cap. For fitted caps, focus on the sweatband area with a soft brush and a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing.
For trucker caps, avoid soaking the mesh too long. Spot-clean the front panel and let the mesh air out. A light spray of diluted white vinegar can help neutralize odors without leaving a smell.
Step-by-Step Cap Care Routine
- Spot Clean Stains First: Dip a soft cloth or toothbrush in a mixture of cool water and a drop of mild detergent. Gently scrub any visible stains on the front, brim, and sweatband. Avoid soaking the entire cap. Common mistake: scrubbing too hard on embroidery can loosen threads. Use light pressure.
- Hand Wash the Whole Cap: Fill a basin with cool water and a teaspoon of mild detergent. Submerge the cap and swish it gently for 2-3 minutes. Let it soak for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains. Checkpoint: Never use hot water—it can shrink the cotton front on trucker caps and distort the structured fit on fitted caps.
- Reshape and Air Dry: Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Place the cap on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb moisture. Then reshape the crown and brim by hand. Let it air dry on a cap form or a rounded object like a bowl. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Common mistake: drying on a radiator or in the dryer will shrink the cap and damage the mesh. Patience is key.
- Refresh the Shape Between Washes: Use a fabric steamer or hold the cap over a pot of steaming water for 30 seconds to relax the fibers. Reshape the brim and crown by hand, then let it cool. This works well for both fitted and adjustable caps. Checkpoint: Steam is gentle on embroidery and mesh, but keep the cap at least 6 inches from the steam source to avoid moisture buildup.
Product Facts
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Hickory Crawdads New Era Hickory Goat-Karts 59Fifty Fitted Cap: The Hickory Goat-Karts 59Fifty Fitted Cap is made of 100% Performance Polyester with a structured fit and flat bill. The structured fit means the cap holds its shape, so you must hand wash and air dry to avoid warping the crown and brim.
Hickory Crawdads New Era Hickory Goat-Karts 59Fifty Fitted Cap
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Hickory Crawdads '47 Black Garner Trucker Adjustable Cap: The '47 Black Garner Trucker Adjustable Cap has a garment washed cotton front and hard mesh back. The cotton front can shrink if washed in hot water, and the mesh can snag easily, so always use cold water and a gentle touch.
Hickory Crawdads '47 Black Garner Trucker Adjustable Cap
