Fitted hats are a popular everyday wear accessory, but sometimes they don’t fit perfectly. A step-by-step guide on how to shrink a fitted hat can save you from buying a new one, allowing you to fix it to your exact head size.
Learning how to shrink a fitted hat can also help you achieve a perfect and a stylish fit. A fitted hat will feel comfortable and look great while complementing your outfit. There are several methods to shrink a fitted hat, including steaming and washing. However, which method is best to shrinking a hat is also based on its fabric and material.
Read on the blog to learn “how can you shrink a fitted hat” easily at home without running its shape!
Do Fitted Hats Shrink?
Yes, fitted hats can shrink, especially when exposed to heat and moisture. Natural fibers like cotton and wool tend to shrink more than synthetic fibers like polyester and poly blends.
When a fitted hat is washed or exposed to high temperatures, the fibers contract and it results in a smaller fit. However, the amount of shrinkage can vary based on the material and the way you shrink a fitted hat.
How Much Do Fitted Hats Shrink?
How do you shrink a fitted hat and how much can you shrink a fitted hat? If you have the same query, don’t worry, as below you will learn the answer!
The amount of shrinkage for fitted hats depends on the material and the shrinking method you will use. For instance, cotton and wool hats can shrink significantly with sometimes even up to a full size smaller.
Measure Your Head Size For the Ideal Fit
For those who don’t know how to make a fitted hat smaller, measuring your head size is the very first step!
Use a Soft Tape Measure
A soft tape measure is the best tool for measuring your head. It helps you in getting an exact measurement. For this, wrap your measurement tape around your head just above your ears and across your forehead. This will give you the most accurate measurement for finding the ideal hat size. Make sure the tape fits your head properly but not too tight to avoid any discomfort later on.
Record the Measurement
Once you’ve measured your head, note the number on the tape measure. This measurement will help you to shrink your hat to the exact size of your head. Also, if you have not already bought your hat, then you can compare this number to the hats sizing chart provided by the hat supplier to select your perfect fit.
Material Matters When Shrinking a Fitted Hat
If you have just got your hands on your favorite hat and it came out too large leaving you wondering “how to shrink a fitted hat”, start by identifying its material.
The material of your fitted hat plays a significant role in how much it will shrink. Moreover, understanding the material composition can also help you choose the best shrinking method.
How to Shrink a Cotton Fitted Hat?
Cotton hats are prone to significant shrinkage when exposed to water and heat. To shrink a cotton hat, you can soak it in hot water and then dry it using a blow dryer or under the sun. This method is effective but requires careful monitoring to avoid over-shrinking.
How to Shrink a Polyester Fitted Hat?
Polyester hats are comparatively resistant to shrinkage compared to cotton ones. To shrink a polyester hat, you might need to use more effective methods like machine washing on a hot cycle. However, be cautious as excessive heat can damage the synthetic fibers.
How to Shrink a Wool Fitted Hat?
Wool hats can shrink a lot due to the natural fibers. To shrink a wool hat, soak it in warm water and then gently squeeze out excess water. Let it dry naturally to achieve the desired fit. Wool is delicate than cotton and polyester, so handle it with care during the shrinking process to achieve your desired fit.
How to Shrink a Fitted Hat?
There are various methods to shrink your hat. One common method involves using water and heat to shrink it and get that ideal fit.
You can also shrink your hat through machine washing, steaming, or even using a blow dryer. These methods will allow you to customize your hat to your preference.
Below are some more effective ways to help you shrink a fitted hat.
6 Best Ways to Shrink a Fitted Hat
Shrinking a fitted hat can be necessary for achieving the perfect fit, and different methods can be used depending on the hat’s material and the desired level of shrinkage. Here are six effective techniques to consider:
Steaming Method
Steaming is a gentle yet effective way to shrink a hat for minor adjustments. It also helps soften a fitted hat, giving you a more comfortable fit. Here’s how steaming process works for shrinking your hat:
- Heat a kettle of water or prepare a fabric steamer.
- Use clean tongs to securely hold your hat in the steam.
- Pass the hat over the top of the kettle’s steam or position it in front of the fabric steamer.
- Steam both the inside and outside of the crown to thoroughly soak the hat.
- Remove the hat from the steam and carefully shape it as desired.
- Repeat this process as required.
Hat Sizing Tape
Hat sizing tape is an easy method to adjust the fit. The best part about sizing tap is that it is a non-permanent method to shrinking a hat. Here’s how it works:
- Put on your hat and identify any gaps between the hat and your head.
- Remove the hat and mark or take note of where you require placing size tape.
- Keep the backing on the tape and cut it to fit the areas where the hat was too loose.
- Insert the tape between the hat and the sweatband to hold it in place for a test fit.
- Put the hat back on to check the fit.
- Make sure the hat is comfortable and stays securely in place.
- Remove the hat and make necessary adjustments by repositioning the tape.
- Once satisfied, remove the backing from the tape and attach it to the sweatband or between the sweatband and the hat.
Machine Washing Technique
For people who don’t really know “how to get a fitted hat to shrink” machine washing can be one of the easiest and simplest methods.
Machine washing can shrink a hat effectively, especially for cotton or polyester materials. Use a hot water cycle and a small amount of detergent. After washing, let the hat air dry or use a blow dryer to shape it to your head.
- Place your hat in the washing machine with similar colored clothes.
- Add the correct amount of non-bleach laundry detergent.
- Set the washer to a warm or hot cycle, as hot water can shrink the hat more effectively.
- After washing, try on the hat. If it’s too tight, wear it while it air dries.
- If the hat is still too large, put it in the dryer.
- Set the dryer to low or medium heat.
- Check the hat every 10 minutes to monitor its size.
Once you are sure that it gets the correct amount of shrinkage, take it out from the dryer. Air dries it now before you put it on your head for a perfect fit.
Hand-Washing Technique
Hand-washing is one of the best way to shrink a fitted hat and a gentler method suitable for delicate fabrics like wool. Below is how it works for shrinking your hats:
Blow Dryer Method
If you still aren’t sure about how to make a fitted hat shrink, blow dryer is the go-to option for you.
- Adjust your shower to a comfortably hot temperature.
- Put on your hat and step into the shower.
- Focus on wetting only the crown of the hat.
- Stay in the shower for about three to five minutes.
- Exit the shower, remove the hat, and shake off excess water.
- Put the hat back on while it’s damp to prevent dripping.
- Wear the hat as it air dries to mold it to your head size.
This will help you get the perfect size hat that will fit you properly.
Tips to Effectively Shrinking a Fitted Hat
When it comes to how to shrink a fitted hat effectively so it doesn’t ruin its shape, you must consider a few important tips as mentioned below!
- Choose the right method as per the material.
- Use gradual and low heat to prevent damage.
- Test on a small area first to effectively shrink your hat.
- Monitor the hat shrinking process closely to avoid over-shrinking.
- Allow the hat to dry naturally or air dry for a perfect fit.
