Quick answer

To keep your fitted cap in top shape, spot clean stains with mild soap and cold water, hand wash the sweatband when needed, air dry away from heat, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Why fitted caps need special care

Fitted caps like the New Era 59FIFTY are structured with a rigid crown and a pre-curved brim. Unlike snapbacks or adjustable caps, you cannot simply toss them in the washing machine without risking permanent shape loss. The wool-polyester blend fabric also shrinks or fades if exposed to heat or harsh detergents. That is why hand cleaning and proper storage are essential for keeping your cap game strong season after season.

How to clean and store your fitted cap

  1. Step 1: Spot clean stains: Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with cold water and a drop of mild detergent. Gently dab the stained area—do not scrub. Work from the outside edge of the stain inward to avoid spreading. Rinse the cloth and dab again to remove soap residue. Common mistake: scrubbing hard can distort the fabric or loosen the embroidery. Always dab, never rub.
  2. Step 2: Hand wash the sweatband: Turn the cap inside out and wet the inner sweatband with cold water. Apply a small amount of gentle shampoo or cap-specific cleaner to your fingertips and massage the sweatband. Rinse thoroughly with cold water until no suds remain. Common mistake: submerging the entire cap can weaken the brim's shape. Keep the crown and brim dry unless the whole cap needs cleaning.
  3. Step 3: Air dry naturally: Gently reshape the cap with your hands while it is still damp. Place it on a clean, dry towel or a cap form (like a balled-up towel inside the crown) to maintain its dome shape. Let it air dry at room temperature away from direct sunlight, radiators, or hair dryers. Common mistake: using heat speeds up drying but shrinks the fabric and warps the brim. Patience pays off.
  4. Step 4: Store in a cool, dry place: Once fully dry, store your fitted cap on a cap rack, a shelf, or in a box with a cap form inside to keep the structure. Avoid stacking heavy items on top. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Common mistake: hanging a cap by the back strap can stretch the fabric over time. Use a form or lay it flat.
  5. Step 5: Rotate your caps: If you wear fitted caps regularly, rotate between two or three to give each one a break. This reduces sweat buildup and lets the fabric breathe between wears, extending the life of each cap. Common mistake: wearing the same cap every day accelerates wear on the sweatband and brim. Rotating helps each cap last longer.

Products mentioned in this guide

  • Jersey Diners State & Eggs New Era 59FIFTY Authentic Back Fitted Cap: This cap features a reverse colorway with a bright blue jewel brim, rose crown, and white front panel, plus a NEW 2025 MiLB mark on the back. The contrasting colors mean that any dirt or sweat marks will show more easily, so regular spot cleaning helps maintain the cap's vibrant look.

    Jersey Diners State & Eggs New Era 59FIFTY Authentic Back Fitted Cap

    Jersey Diners State & Eggs New Era 59FIFTY Authentic Back Fitted Cap

  • AUTHENTIC ON-FIELD New Era 59FIFTY Fitted Jersey Diners Coffee Cup Cap: This is an authentic on-field New Era 59FIFTY fitted cap worn by the Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate. As a game-worn style cap, it is made from performance materials that benefit from gentle hand washing to preserve the fabric and structured fit.

    AUTHENTIC ON-FIELD New Era 59FIFTY Fitted Jersey Diners Coffee Cup Cap

    AUTHENTIC ON-FIELD New Era 59FIFTY Fitted Jersey Diners Coffee Cup Cap