A well-loved hat tells a story. With the right care, your FBS hat will shape to you, soften with wear, and last for years. Here's everything you need to know.
General Care
Store it right. Always rest your hat upside down on its crown — never on the brim, which can cause it to flatten over time. For longer storage, use a hat box or hang it on a hat hook away from direct sunlight.
Handle it by the crown. When taking your hat on and off, grab it by the crown rather than the brim. It keeps the shape intact and extends the life of the brim significantly.
After a sweaty day. Flip up the inner sweatband and leave your hat upside down on a flat surface to air dry completely before wearing again. This prevents moisture build-up and keeps the band fresh.
Avoid heat and humidity. Don't leave your hat in a hot car, near a heater, or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat can distort the shape and damage the fibres.
Felt Hats
Everyday cleaning. Use a soft hat brush to remove dust and dirt. Work in short, directional strokes from one side of the hat to the other. Follow up with a small piece of masking tape dabbed gently over the surface to lift any remaining lint.
Light marks. Slightly dampen a clean cloth and wipe in short, directional strokes. Allow to dry naturally — never use a hair dryer or place near a heat source.
Caught in the rain? Don't panic — wool felt is naturally water-resistant. Shake off any excess water, reshape the hat gently while it's still damp, and leave it upside down on its crown to dry at room temperature. Never use heat to speed up drying.
Reshaping. Hold the hat over steam (a boiling kettle works well — carefully) for 20–30 seconds, then gently mould the brim and crown back into shape with your hands. Allow to cool and set before wearing.
Straw Hats
Spot clean with a damp cloth using cold water and a plant-based soap. Avoid soaking or submerging — excess water can weaken the weave. If caught in the rain, reshape gently while damp and allow to dry naturally at room temperature. Flip the sweatband up to dry as with felt hats.
Suede & Leather Hats
Use a soft brush or fine-grade sandpaper to gently buff out marks and scuffs. A clean, soft eraser (make sure it's uncoloured — coloured erasers can leave marks) works surprisingly well on stubborn spots. We recommend applying a non-toxic waterproof spray for added protection against rain and stains.
Cloth, Canvas & Caps
Spot clean with a damp cloth and cold water, or hand wash in a sink if needed. Use a plant-based soap — regular detergents can be harsh on fabrics and on our waterways. Reshape while damp and air dry naturally.
Beanies
Machine wash on a gentle, cold cycle or hand wash in cool water. Lay flat to dry — never put in a dryer, as heat will cause shrinkage. Reshape gently while damp if needed.
What NOT To Do
✗ Don't put felt or straw hats in the washing machine
✗ Don't use a clothes dryer on any hat
✗ Don't use regular detergent on felt — it strips the natural fibres
✗ Don't use a hair dryer or iron to dry or reshape
✗ Don't store a hat while it's still damp
Need a Professional Refresh?
Sometimes a hat needs more than a home clean — especially a well-worn favourite. Our Hat Revive & Shape Service will clean, press and restore your hat back to its best. A great way to extend the life of a hat you love.
Finding your size? Head to our Size Guide — we'll help you get the perfect fit.
Not quite right? We make exchanges easy. Visit our Exchanges & Returns page for all the details.
Still have questions? We're always happy to help — get in touch.
