Quick answer
Hand wash your Houdini cap in cold water with mild detergent, then air dry it away from direct heat. This preserves the fabric's performance and shape.
Why hand washing beats machine washing
Machine washing can be harsh on technical fabrics. The agitation and spinning can stretch or misshape the cap's brim, especially if it's lightweight like the C9 Cap. Hand washing gives you control and keeps the fabric's breathability and water repellency intact.
Houdini caps are designed for outdoor activities, so they're made to handle sweat and light rain. But to maintain their performance, gentle care is key. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can break down the fibers and reduce the cap's effectiveness.
Drying and reshaping for longevity
Air drying is the safest method. High heat from a dryer can shrink or warp the cap, especially if it has a soft brim like the Pace Cap. Instead, reshape the cap while it's damp and let it dry naturally.
If your cap is wrinkled or creased after washing, you can lightly steam it with a garment steamer or hang it in a steamy bathroom. Avoid ironing directly on the fabric, as it can melt or damage technical materials.
Step-by-step washing and care
- Pre-treat stains: Spot-clean any visible dirt or sweat marks with a soft brush or cloth and a drop of mild detergent before washing. This helps lift grime without aggressive scrubbing. Always check the care label first—some caps may have specific instructions.
- Hand wash in cold water: Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the cap and gently swirl it for a few minutes. Avoid wringing or twisting, which can damage the fabric and brim. Never use hot water—it can shrink the fabric and affect the fit.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean cold water. Rinse the cap until no suds remain. Residual detergent can attract dirt and reduce breathability. If the cap has a structured brim, rinse it with the brim facing up to prevent creasing.
- Remove excess water: Gently press the cap between a clean towel to absorb excess water. Do not wring it, as this can distort the shape and damage the fabric's fibers. Roll the cap in the towel and press—this speeds up drying without harming the material.
- Air dry and reshape: Place the cap on a clean, dry towel or a cap form to maintain its shape. Let it air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can warp the brim and shrink the fabric. Do not hang the cap by the strap—this can stretch the band and affect the fit.
Product care notes
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Pace Cap: The Pace Cap is made from Octa C9 Softshell, a smooth, lightweight fabric with a wind-breaking surface and a PFAS-free water-repellent finish. This finish helps repel light snow and rain, but hand washing with mild detergent preserves it, so the cap continues to protect you in changing weather.
Pace Cap
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C9 Cap: The C9 Cap is made from C9 Ripstop, an ultralight, cool, and highly breathable fabric. Because it's so lightweight, gentle hand washing and air drying prevent the fabric from stretching or losing its shape, keeping it comfortable on long runs.
C9 Cap