FAQs
How do I clean a baseball cap without ruining it?
Hand wash first: spot-treat sweat and grime with mild detergent (or dish soap) and a soft brush, rinse cool, then air-dry on a form so the crown keeps its shape; avoid dryers. Older caps can have cardboard brims; many modern caps use plastic, but gentle hand cleaning protects both. Shop fresh caps and graphic tees while this one dries.
Can I throw my hat in a washing machine or dishwasher?
You’ll see “dishwasher hacks,” but official guidance says avoid machines that can warp buckram, adhesives, and brims; go gentle, by hand. If you must machine-wash, use a mesh bag, cold water, gentle cycle, and always air-dry—never heat.
What actually works for sweat stains and odor?
Pre-treat the band with enzyme detergent or a baking-soda paste, brush lightly, rinse cool, and repeat; for salt lines, spot with vinegar/water before rinsing. Finish by air-drying on a head form. Grab moisture-wicking caps (and tees) to cut future stains.
How should a baseball cap fit—and how do I find my size?
Measure around your head where a sweatband sits (about ½" above brows/ears), then match inches/cm to a size chart; if you’re between sizes, round up. For fitteds, you want snug but not headache-tight; for adjustables, start mid-strap. Explore our fitteds, snapbacks, and strapbacks in your size.
Snapback vs. fitted vs. strapback—what’s the difference?
Fitted caps (e.g., 59FIFTY) use exact sizes; snapbacks and strapbacks adjust via snaps or a buckle. Flexfit adds stretch; low-profile crowns sit shallower. Pick what suits your head shape and style—then match with a graphic tee.
What is a “dad hat,” and who should wear it?
“Dad hat” = unstructured, low-profile, cotton cap with a curved brim and strapback—relaxed, everyday, and universally flattering. It pairs cleanly with casual tees and denim.
Trucker hat vs. classic baseball cap—what’s better for heat?
Truckers are baseball caps with a tall foam front and mesh back for ventilation; great in hot weather. Classic six-panel cotton or performance blends give a lower profile.
How do I curve (or flatten) the brim safely?
Use steam to relax fibers, shape the visor around a cup/bottle, secure with rubber bands, let it cool/dry—no cracking, no kinks. New Era confirms you can curve a 59FIFTY if you like. We carry pre-curved profiles if you want it done out of the box.
My fitted is a bit off—shrink or stretch?
Shrinking risks warping; most wearers size up slightly and fine-tune with thin foam/cork “hat tape” or sizing inserts behind the sweatband. Steam/hand-stretching can open a too-snug crown a touch. We offer sized and adjustable styles to nail the fit.
Do I keep the sticker on the brim or peel it?
It’s pure style etiquette: some leave stickers for the streetwear look, others peel for a cleaner, classic aesthetic. Wear it how you like—your cap, your rules.
Do hats cause hair loss?
No solid evidence says normal hat-wearing causes baldness; issues stem from genetics/hormones. Very tight or dirty hats can irritate the scalp or contribute to rare traction problems—so keep a comfy fit and wash your cap.
Do baseball caps protect from the sun?
Caps shade the face but leave ears and neck exposed; pair them with sunscreen or choose UPF apparel and wider brims when you’ll be out long.
What fabric is best for sweaty workouts?
Synthetics like polyester/nylon wick and dry faster than cotton; mesh panels boost airflow. Grab performance caps (and tech tees) for training; save cotton for casual.
How do I fix a dented crown or crushed front panel?
Light steam to relax the fabric, push out dents from inside with a rounded form (bowl/jar), and let it dry in shape; avoid soaking the buckram.
Low-profile vs. high-crown—what’s the difference?
High-crown (original 59FIFTY) sits taller; low-profile has a slightly curved visor and rounded, shallower crown. Low-profile often fits smaller heads for a classic look. Try both with your favorite tee and see what frames your face best.
What’s the best way to store caps so they keep their shape?
Air-dry after wear, then store on a hook, rack, or form; avoid stacking/heavy compression and never put damp caps in bins. Regular gentle cleaning extends life—then rotate with a backup cap.
Where can I find great caps for big heads (size 7⅝–8+)?
Specialty retailers and size-inclusive brands stock 2XL–4XL and size-8+ options; look for deeper crowns and longer straps.
How often should I wash my cap?
If you wear it daily or sweat in it, give it a light clean every couple of weeks; occasional wearers can wash every few months. Quick spot-cleaning after workouts prevents set-in stains. Shop extra caps so you can rotate while one dries.