How to Break-in a New Baseball Hat

There's something special about a broken-in baseball cap that just feels right. The perfect curve lending to an overall more subdued shape that just becomes an extension of your head over time. Before you think this is a process that'll be completed overnight, remember that you should never follow avoid aggressive methods that promise amazing results. Accept that breaking in your cap is a relaxed process if you want a long-lasting, well-formed curve.

What Not to Do

• Don’t use boiling water; hot water may shrink or warp the hat beyond repair.
• Avoid harsh detergents that can damage fabric colors and textures.
• Skip the dryer unless you're aiming for a snugger fit. It can shrink the cap.
• Don’t twist or wring the hat excessively... do everything you can to avoid damaging the bill’s shape so it doesn't backfire.

You'll Need

• Warm water or a spray bottle
• Gentle liquid laundry detergent (optional)
• Kettle with boiling water
• A baseball or similar-sized object
• Towels
• Heavy books or weights

1. Soften the Fabric

• Fill a basin or sink with warm water (not hot).
• Soak the hat for 10-15 minutes to relax the fibers. If you want, add a drop of gentle soap for extra softness.
• Rinse thoroughly, then pat dry with a towel.

2. Shape the Brim

• Hold the brim over a warm, steaming kettle for about 30 seconds.
• Gently bend the brim into your preferred curve while it’s warm.
• Place a few heavy books on top of the brim to keep its shape as it dries.

3. Mold the Fit

• Wear the hat while it’s damp to mold it to your head shape. (An unconventional method is to wear it in the shower).
• Wrap a baseball or similarly sized object inside if you can’t wear it all day.
• Leave it overnight to set the new shape.

4. Dry with Care

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
• Pat with a towel and let it air dry on a flat surface.
• Reshape as it dries to make sure it keeps the perfect form.

FAQ

How can I make the hat fit looser?

It isn't always easy to buy the correct size. If you need a roomier fit, stretch the damp hat over a larger object, like a small bowl, or wet the cap, wear it, and fuss with it as it dries. This will slowly stretch the fibers to a slightly larger size.

Is it okay to machine-wash a baseball hat?

If you can help it, pass. The preferred method is to hand-wash. Machine washing can deform the bill and ruin fabric over time. If you do use a machine, go with a gentle cycle in cold water.

How often should I break in a new hat?

Most hats only need a break-in once. If they get stored underneath heavier items it might benefit from a rubber band to train it back to a gentle curve. But in general, a light reshaping after washing will be enough to keep them comfortable and fitted.