How to Store Hats: Proper Hat Storage to Maintain Shape and Quality
Protect Your Hats from Damage with the Right Storage Approach
Hats are more than just functional accessories—they often carry sentimental value, represent a favorite team, or serve as stylish seasonal staples. Whether you’re packing away your hats for the off-season or organizing your closet, proper hat storage is key to keeping them in excellent condition. From beanies to wool fedoras, each hat type requires specific care to maintain its shape, material, and color. This guide offers practical advice on how to store hats long-term or short-term, with tips tailored to various types of hats and storage needs.
Preparing Your Hats for Storage
Before you begin organizing your hats, it’s important to properly clean and prepare them for storage. Neglecting this step can lead to long-term damage such as fading, mold, or misshapen brims.
Start by removing any surface dust, lint, or dirt. Use a hat brush or lint roller depending on the hat’s material. For baseball caps and beanies, spot-clean any visible stains and allow the fabric to dry completely. Moisture trapped in the fibers can lead to mildew or cause the material to break down over time.
Once the hats are clean, assess your storage environment. Hats should be stored in a cool, dry area, away from humidity, heat, and direct sunlight. Attics, basements, garages, and sheds are not ideal due to temperature fluctuations and potential exposure to moisture. Instead, consider closets, dedicated storage shelves, or storage units with climate control to preserve the integrity of your collection.
Best Practices by Hat Type
Different types of hats require different storage methods. The structure, material, and flexibility of each hat type will determine how it should be stored to avoid stretching, shrinking, or losing its shape.
Beanies
Due to their soft, flexible material, beanies are relatively simple to store. However, improper storage can cause them to stretch out or lose elasticity. Rather than hanging beanies—which can cause them to stretch at the seams—fold each one neatly and stack them in a drawer, bin, or on a shelf. Avoid placing them in areas exposed to heat or light, as some knit fabrics can become brittle or fade over time.
Baseball Caps
Baseball caps are one of the most commonly owned hat types, and they tend to hold their shape well when stored properly. However, repeated exposure to pressure or moisture can still cause damage.
One of the best ways to store baseball caps is to hang them on hooks or pegs on a wall or inside a closet. If you prefer to keep them out of sight, consider stackable plastic bins with dividers to preserve their shape. Avoid placing heavy items on top of them, as this can flatten the crown or warp the bill. For collectors, display racks or cap-specific organizers can help maintain visibility and order while keeping each cap in great condition.
Berets
Berets are typically made of wool or felt, which can become misshapen under pressure. To help berets retain their shape, lightly stuff them with acid-free tissue paper before placing them in storage. Store berets in a box or bin with a lid to prevent dust from accumulating, and never place other items on top, as even light pressure can cause them to flatten or crease.
Felt and Wool Hats
Structured felt and wool hats, such as fedoras or wide-brimmed sun hats, are particularly vulnerable to damage from poor storage conditions. These hats should always be stored with their crown supported to prevent it from caving in. Use acid-free tissue paper or soft fabric like a scarf to fill the crown. Some people choose to use Styrofoam heads to help hats keep their original shape, especially for long-term storage or valuable vintage hats.
Place these hats inside individual hat boxes or containers designed to protect their structure. If you need to store multiple hats, only stack them if they are identical in shape and size, and always place the heaviest hat at the bottom of the stack.
Quick Tips for Storing Hats Like a Pro
Whether you’re short on time, organizing a last-minute move, or simply looking for a quick way to keep your favorite hats in great condition, a few smart storage strategies can go a long way. These quick tips are designed to help protect your hats’ structure, prevent fading, and make your seasonal rotation as simple as possible.
What to Keep in Mind When Storing Hats
- Clean hats thoroughly before storing to prevent dirt buildup and discoloration.
- Avoid storing hats in humid or sun-exposed areas to prevent mold and fading.
- Always stuff structured hats with tissue paper or fabric to help maintain their shape.
- Store hats upside down in boxes, with brims facing up, to protect the brim.
- Nest hats only if they’re the same shape and size, placing the heaviest ones on the bottom.
- Use labeled containers or boxes to make seasonal rotation and retrieval easier.
- Replace mothballs with cedar chips or rings to safely deter pests.
- Don’t overload boxes—pressure can permanently flatten or warp certain hat styles.
Keeping these storage tips in mind can help streamline your hat storage process while ensuring your collection stays in excellent condition. Whether you’re packing away seasonal accessories or preserving long-term favorites, these guidelines offer a reliable foundation for smart, stress-free storage.
Choosing the Right Storage Containers
The container you choose for storing your hats can make a significant difference in how well they retain their shape and condition over time. While it may be tempting to use whatever is available, investing in the right type of storage can help extend the lifespan of your hats.
Hat Boxes
Hat boxes remain one of the most reliable and protective ways to store structured hats, especially those made of wool or felt. They provide support and prevent exposure to light and dust. When storing hats in a box, place the hat upside down with the crown resting on the bottom of the box and the brim facing up. This helps prevent the brim from flattening over time.
Hat boxes also allow you to store more than one hat, provided they are the same shape and size. Nesting similar hats inside one another can save space, but be cautious—never nest hats of different shapes or sizes, as it can lead to distortion. Always place heavier hats on the bottom and lighter hats on top.
Plastic Storage Bins
For more casual hats like beanies and baseball caps, plastic bins are a convenient and durable option. These containers protect your hats from dust and pests while being stackable for easy organization. Choose clear bins if you want to see what’s inside without opening them, and make sure each hat is stored in a way that avoids pressure or bending.
Shoeboxes and Alternative Containers
If you don’t have a hat box available, shoeboxes can be used in a pinch for small or soft hats. As with hat boxes, make sure the hat is stored upside down with the brim facing up. Be cautious not to overcrowd the box, and don’t use it for heavier or more delicate hats that require extra support. Avoid storing hats in plastic bags or tightly sealed containers without ventilation, as this can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
Additional Storage Tips
Once your hats are placed in appropriate containers, there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure they remain in good condition.
Label your boxes clearly, especially if you have a large collection or are rotating hats by season. Descriptive labels make it easier to find what you’re looking for without having to unpack multiple containers. Consider using waterproof labels if storing your hats in areas prone to occasional dampness.
Avoid using mothballs, which contain harsh chemicals that can damage delicate materials and leave behind lingering odors. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like cedar rings, cedar chips, or lavender sachets, which offer pest protection without introducing unwanted toxins.
Protect Your Hats with Smart Storage Solutions
Whether you’re storing a few favorite beanies or an extensive collection of specialty hats, investing a little time into proper storage can go a long way in protecting their shape, color, and quality. By cleaning hats before storing them, using the right containers, and avoiding harmful storage environments, you can ensure that each hat stays in great condition and is ready to wear whenever you need it.
If you’re limited on space at home or need a secure, climate-controlled environment for your collection, self storage can be the perfect solution. Guardian Storage offers a range of unit sizes and features to help you store your hats—and anything else you need—safely and conveniently.
