OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover
Oxygen soak that lifts yellow sweat stains.
View on AmazonHow to Get Sweat Stains Out of Hats (Baseball Caps)
The brim of most caps contains cardboard or plastic, so a washing machine can bend it for good. Hand cleaning with a soft brush is the safe way to remove the yellow sweat band.
Difficulty:
Easy
Quick Facts
Time Needed30 min + air drying
Success Rate90% on most caps
Key TipNever in the dryer
Stain TypeSweat + oil
Quick Answer
In short: Check the label, brush dish soap and warm water (or an OxiClean solution) into the sweatband with a soft toothbrush, leave 15 minutes, rinse under cool water and air dry the cap on a bowl or ball to keep its shape.
Step-by-Step Removal Guide
1
Check the brim and label
Older caps may have a cardboard brim that falls apart in water. If you are unsure, spot clean only and do not soak the brim.
2
Pre-treat the sweatband
Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water. Scrub the sweatband and stained areas gently with a soft toothbrush.
3
Soak stubborn stains
For yellow sweat stains, dissolve oxygen bleach (OxiClean) in warm water and soak the cap for 1-2 hours, or brush the solution onto the stain if the brim should stay dry.
Colored caps: test oxygen bleach on the inside first. Never use chlorine bleach on a cap.
4
Rinse
Rinse under cool running water until the water runs clear.
5
Air dry in shape
Blot with a towel and dry the cap on a bowl, balloon or ball so it keeps its crown. Keep it out of the dryer and direct heat.
Recommended Products
What actually works for this stain
Hat cleaning brush
Soft bristles clean the sweatband without fraying the fabric.
View on AmazonCap washer frame
Keeps the shape if you choose to wash caps in the top rack or machine.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
DIY Home Remedy
Baking Soda Paste for the Sweatband
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon water
- Soft toothbrush
Method:
- Mix into a paste
- Brush it into the sweatband
- Leave 20 minutes
- Rinse with cool water
- Air dry on a bowl
Why it works: Baking soda lifts body oil and neutralizes odor without the risk of bleaching the color of the cap.
Not sure what stain it is?
Snap a photo with the free Stain Solutions app and get the right treatment in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a baseball cap in the washing machine?
Only modern caps with a plastic brim, in a cap frame, on a cold gentle cycle. Hand cleaning is safer.
Can I wash a hat in the dishwasher?
It is possible on the top rack without detergent pods, but the heat can warp the brim and fade colors. Hand cleaning is gentler.
How do I get sweat stains out of a white hat?
Soak it in an oxygen bleach solution for 1-2 hours, then rinse. Avoid chlorine bleach, which can yellow synthetic fabrics.
How do I remove sweat stains from a straw or felt hat?
Do not soak them. Dab the band with a cloth dampened with mild soapy water, then dry. For felt, use a dry cleaning sponge.
How do I stop sweat stains on caps?
Use a sweatband liner and rinse the band after heavy use.
