Caring for Your New Era 59FIFTY Cap: Cleaning and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To keep your New Era 59FIFTY cap in top condition, hand wash it gently with mild detergent and cold water, reshape it while damp, and air dry it on a form. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and maintain its structured shape.

Your New Era 59FIFTY cap is more than an accessory—it's a statement of team pride. Whether you wear it to every home game or save it for special occasions, proper care keeps it looking crisp and extends its life. The structured crown and flat brim require specific attention to avoid warping or shrinking.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for cleaning and storing your fitted cap. From spot cleaning to deep washing, these steps will help you maintain the cap's shape, color, and overall quality for years to come.

Why Proper Care Matters for Fitted Caps

Fitted caps like the New Era 59FIFTY are designed with a structured crown and a pre-curved brim that can lose their shape if not handled correctly. The fabric, often wool or polyester, can shrink, fade, or become misshapen when exposed to harsh washing methods or high heat. Understanding the materials and construction helps you choose the right cleaning approach.

Regular maintenance not only keeps your cap looking game-day ready but also protects your investment. A well-cared-for cap can last for many seasons, making it a worthwhile addition to your collection. By following a few simple steps, you can avoid common pitfalls like shrinking, color bleeding, and brim warping.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions, but most 59FIFTY caps require gentle handling.
• Avoid machine washing and drying, as the agitation and heat can damage the cap's structure.
• Use a cap form or a similarly shaped object to maintain the crown's shape during drying.

Cleaning Your Cap: Step-by-Step

Before you start, gather your supplies: a soft-bristled brush, mild detergent (like Woolite or a cap-specific cleaner), a clean cloth, and a basin of cold water. Spot cleaning is often enough for light dirt and sweat marks. Dip the cloth in the soapy water, wring it out, and gently dab the affected areas. Avoid soaking the entire cap unless it's heavily soiled.

For a deeper clean, fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the cap and gently agitate it with your hands, paying extra attention to the sweatband and any stained areas. Rinse thoroughly in cold water until no soap residue remains. Never use hot water, as it can cause shrinkage or color fading.

• Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt before washing.
• Do not scrub aggressively; gentle motions are key.
• Rinse until the water runs clear to avoid detergent buildup.

Drying and Reshaping Your Cap

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing the cap. Place a clean, dry towel inside the cap to absorb moisture, then reshape it to its original form. It's crucial to let the cap air dry completely before wearing or storing it. Avoid using a dryer or direct sunlight, as heat can damage the fabric and brim.

To maintain the cap's shape, use a cap form or a similarly shaped object like a small bowl or ball. This helps the crown dry in its proper structure. For the brim, you can use a brim shaper or simply adjust it with your hands while it's damp. Allow the cap to dry for 24-48 hours in a well-ventilated area.

• Never use a clothes dryer; air drying is the only safe method.
• Stuff the cap with a towel to help it hold its shape while drying.
• Keep the cap away from heat sources like radiators or car dashboards.

Storing Your Cap to Preserve Shape

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. When not in use, store your cap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the cap, as this can crush the crown or bend the brim. A dedicated cap rack or hook is ideal for maintaining its shape.

If you travel, invest in a hard-sided cap carrier or pack the cap with soft items to prevent crushing. For long-term storage, consider stuffing the crown with acid-free tissue paper to help it retain its shape. This is especially important for fitted caps that you rotate in and out of your collection.

• Use a cap rack or hook to display your caps without damaging them.
• When traveling, use a sturdy container to protect the cap from being squashed.
• Stuff the crown with tissue paper if storing for extended periods.

Step-by-Step Cap Care Routine

1. Spot Clean First: Use a soft brush or cloth with mild soapy water to gently remove dirt and sweat from the cap's surface, focusing on the sweatband and brim. Checkpoint: If the cap looks clean after spot cleaning, skip the full wash to minimize wear.
2. Hand Wash Gently: Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the cap and gently agitate for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly in cold water. Checkpoint: Ensure no soap residue remains, as it can irritate skin and attract dirt.
3. Reshape and Air Dry: Gently squeeze out excess water, stuff the cap with a clean towel to maintain shape, and let it air dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Reshape the brim as needed. Checkpoint: Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying before wearing or storing.

Caring for Your Hillsboro Hops Caps

• New Era 59FIFTY Regular Crown Hillsboro Hops Home Cap: This navy New Era 59FIFTY® cap is the official home on-field cap of the Hillsboro Hops. Designed with a raised, embroidered Hillsboro Hops team logo on front, stitched New Era logo on left side, and stitched Minor League Baseball® logo on right side. Brand: New Era Style: 59FIFTY Regular Crown Color: Navy The structured crown and embroidered logos require gentle cleaning to prevent damage. Hand washing and air drying will keep the embroidery intact and the navy color vibrant.
• New Era 59FIFTY Official Alternate Cap - Regular Crown, Hillsboro Hops: This navy with sky blue bill New Era 59FIFTY® cap is the official alternate on-field cap of the Hillsboro Hops. Designed with a raised, embroidered Hillsboro Hops team logo on front, stitched New Era logo on left side, and stitched Minor League Baseball® logo on right side. Brand: New Era Style: 59FIFTY Regular Crown Color: Navy/Light Blue The sky blue bill can be prone to showing dirt. Spot clean with a soft cloth to avoid discoloration, and always air dry to preserve the contrasting colors.

With these simple care steps, your New Era 59FIFTY cap will stay in top condition, ready for every game day. Remember to clean gently, dry naturally, and store properly to preserve its shape and color. For more Hillsboro Hops gear, check out our official store for caps and accessories that are built to last.