The Easiest Ways To Waterproof Your Hat

There are a plethora of reasons as to why you would want to waterproof your hat, and a wide variety of hats you could use the waterproofing for. Regardless if it's a fitted hat or even your kid's hat, here are the easiest ways to waterproof a hat. Whichever one that fits your needs best depends on factors such as your hat material.

Why Waterproof Your Hat?

One of the obvious examples of waterproofing your hat coming in handy is that it can protect your hat and yourself from the elements. No one likes the unpleasant and uncomfortable feeling of a soggy and soaked hat on their head, which makes a waterproofed hat all the more attractive and appealing. A waterproof hat can also be part of an entire waterproof outfit ensemble for those that work in or engage in activities in wet environments, allowing you to stay engaged and focused, rain or shine!

Waterproof Spray and Seam Sealer

The waterproof spray and seam sealer strategy is the most effective with hat materials such as leather, nylon, and canvas. Preferably, you should pick a day that isn't overly windy or humid to use this method. If you have sensitive skin, you should use this method in an outdoor environment or at the very least, a well-ventilated room. Below is how to get it done:

• Clean the head thoroughly, and ensure that there's no stubborn leftover dirt or debris. Ensure that the hat is completely dry before continuing.
• Spray waterproof spray in a smooth, even layer around six to eight inches from the hat, both on the inside and outside.
• Dry your hat.
• Spray another layer of waterproof spray evenly, as above.
• Apply seam sealer on all the hat's seams.
• Let your hat dry, and enjoy!

Detergent and Alum

Detergent and alum is a tried and trusted waterproofing method that works for hats as well as it does for clothing. Just take note: detergent and alum is not recommended for use with leather or suede hats.

• Thoroughly clean your hat, making sure that its surfaces are spotless.
• Mix detergent (one pound) with water (two gallons) into a bucket large enough to submerge your hat in the solution, or a laundry sink.
• Soak the hat for around 5 minutes in the solution.
• Dry the hat, preferably by hanging it outdoors in the sun.
• Mix alum (half a pound) into hot water (two gallons), and soak the hat for at least two hours. Ensure that the alum has dissolved completely, and the hat is fully submerged in the solution.
• Let the hat out to dry again.

Rub-on Waterproofing Wax Bar

If you own a canvas hat you'd like to waterproof, a rub-on waterproofing wax bar is a simple, fuss-free method to waterproof yours.

• Clean your hat, and ensure that it's dry and spotless before continuing.
• Warm up the hat and wax, preferably with a hairdryer.
• Apply wax and rub it thoroughly into the hat's material.
• Heat the hat again.
• Place hat in a warm and dry place to "cure".