How to Clean a Baseball Cap: The Ultimate Guide (Dishwasher Edition) 🧤🧽

If you’re a true cap lover, you know the struggle of keeping your favourite baseball caps looking sharp and smelling fresh. Whether it’s your daily go-to or a prized collector’s piece, your cap inevitably faces sweat stains, dirt, grime, and the occasional scuff. But don’t worry—learning how to clean a baseball cap properly can make all the difference in preserving its shape, colour, and overall vibe.

While hand washing is a tried-and-true method, there's another underrated, time-saving alternative: cleaning your baseball cap in the dishwasher. Yep, you read that right. When done correctly, it’s an efficient and effective way to keep your cap game strong—without damaging your prized pieces.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to wash a baseball cap in the dishwasher, including step-by-step instructions, materials needed, and pro tips from the crew here at Cap Club.

Why Use a Dishwasher to Clean Your Baseball Cap?

You might be wondering, “Can you really clean a baseball cap in a dishwasher?” The answer is yes—if you do it the right way. The dishwasher method is perfect for time-poor cap enthusiasts who want a deep clean without compromising structure or fabric.

Benefits include:

• Even, gentle washing
• Hands-free convenience
• Shape preservation (with the right gear)
• Great for multiple caps at once

Let’s get stuck into exactly how to do it right.

What You’ll Need:

To safely clean your cap in the dishwasher, you’ll want to have the following items on hand:

✅ Mild, bleach-free dishwasher detergent (we recommend Molly's Suds)
✅ Dishwasher-safe cap frame or a mesh laundry bag
✅ Soft-bristle brush
✅ Stain remover or laundry pre-treater
✅ Clean towel for air drying

Bonus tip: All our Cap Club mystery boxes include a free cap shaper, so you’re already ahead of the game if you're a member!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash a Baseball Cap in the Dishwasher

1. Check the Cap Material First

Before you dive in, inspect the cap’s material. Not all caps are dishwasher-friendly. The best dishwasher-safe materials include:

• Cotton
• Polyester
• Mesh blends

Avoid washing caps made from:

• Wool – may shrink or distort
• Leather – could crack or warp
• Cardboard brims – can disintegrate when wet (newer caps usually use plastic instead)

2. Pre-Treat Any Stains

If your baseball cap has visible stains—like sweat marks or dirt—spot clean before washing:

• Apply a stain remover or create a DIY solution using a drop of mild detergent and warm water.
• Gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
• Let it sit for 20–30 minutes before moving on to the dishwasher.

3. Use a Cap Frame or Mesh Bag

This is crucial: Always use a cap frame or shaper to maintain your hat’s form. These tools hold your cap in place during the wash and help it come out looking crisp.

Don’t have one? A mesh laundry bag is a solid backup, but a frame really is your best bet.

4. Load the Dishwasher – Top Rack Only

Place your capped-up masterpiece on the top rack of your dishwasher. This area experiences less heat and water pressure, reducing the risk of damage.

⚠️ Pro tip: Make sure the dishwasher is empty. Trust us—you don’t want marinara splatter or food residue ending up on your cap.

5. Choose the Right Cycle

Select a gentle or delicate cycle with a cool or warm water setting. Avoid hot water at all costs—it can shrink or warp your cap.

Also, turn off the drying cycle. We’ll cover proper drying in a moment.

6. Add the Right Detergent

Stick with a mild, bleach-free dishwasher detergent. Steer clear of lemon-scented products—the acid can damage fabrics and colours.

7. Start the Wash & Keep an Eye on Things

Run the cycle and keep an eye on your cap. If you're nervous, you can do a mid-cycle check around the 15-minute mark to make sure everything’s going smoothly.

For extra peace of mind, opt for a short cycle (30–40 minutes).

Aftercare: How to Dry Your Baseball Cap Properly

Never, ever tumble-dry your cap. The heat and tumbling action can wreck the shape and fabric.

Here’s what to do instead:

• Remove your cap gently from the frame.
• Reshape it if needed.
• Place it on a clean towel or over a round object (like a bowl) to help maintain its form.
• Let it air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Bonus Cap Care Tips 🧢✨

✅ Clean Regularly, Not Rarely

Don’t wait until your cap is crusty—regular cleaning is key. Give it a quick spot clean on the inner band using a soft cloth and a touch of mild soap every few wears.

✅ Store Smart

Keep your caps in a dry, well-ventilated space, and use cap shapers when not in use to maintain structure.

✅ Rotate Your Caps

Wearing the same cap every day? Give it a break. Rotation extends lifespan and keeps them fresher longer.

Final Thoughts from Cap Club HQ

Whether you’re a collector or a casual cap lover, knowing how to clean a baseball cap the right way can make all the difference. The dishwasher method is a clever, low-effort solution—as long as you take the right precautions and care steps.

At Cap Club, we believe caring for your caps is just as important as wearing them. Keep your headwear game fresh, your style on point, and your caps ready for anything.

✨ Ready to take your cap collection to the next level?

Join Cap Club today and get premium styles delivered to your door monthly.