Placing a baseball cap in the dishwasher is generally not recommended. While some people may have successfully washed their caps in the dishwasher without damaging them, it carries a risk of causing damage to the cap or altering its shape and appearance.
Here are a few reasons why using a dishwasher to wash a baseball cap is not ideal:
Heat and water pressure: Dishwashers use hot water and high water pressure to clean dishes. The combination of heat and water pressure can potentially warp the cap's shape or damage its materials, especially if it's made of delicate fabrics or has stiffeners.
Agitation: Dishwashers are designed to clean dishes through agitation, which involves the movement of water and dishes during the wash cycle. This vigorous movement could misshape the cap or cause wear and tear on its components.
Cleaning agents: Dishwasher detergents and rinse agents are meant for cleaning dishes, not clothing items like caps. These chemicals may not be suitable for the fabric of the cap and could cause discoloration or damage.
If you want to clean a baseball cap without risking damage, here are some alternative methods:
Handwashing: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently hand wash the cap and use a soft brush to clean any stains or sweat marks. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry, reshaping the cap to its original form.
Spot cleaning: If the cap has only a few small stains, spot cleaning might be sufficient. Use a clean cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to target the stained areas.
Cap washer: Consider using a cap washer, which is a plastic frame designed to maintain the cap's shape while being washed in the washing machine. This provides a safer way to machine-wash a cap if handwashing is not preferred.
In any case, always check the care label or manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning recommendations for your baseball cap. When in doubt, handwashing is usually the safest option to preserve the cap's appearance.