Feliz Shoes is proud to offer not only beautifully crafted footwear, but also a curated collection of handmade wool felt hats, designed to complement your personal style and provide comfort and warmth.
This care guide will help you keep your handmade wool felt hats in prime condition so you can enjoy them season after season, year after year.
Hat care guide
Wool felt is a natural, durable, and versatile material, but like all fine items, it requires proper care to maintain its shape, appearance, and longevity. The natural beauty of wool felt only improves with age, developing character and a unique patina as you wear it. With very little effort, your hat will remain a trusted companion for many seasons, adding style and sophistication to your wardrobe.
You can use this care guide for products such as:
1. General Care for Wool Felt Hats
Wool felt is resilient, but it can be sensitive to moisture, dirt, and excessive handling. To ensure your Feliz wool felt hat stays looking its best:
- Handle with Care: Always handle your wool felt hat by the brim or the crown. Avoid gripping it by the edges, as this can distort its shape over time.
- Storage: When not in use, store your hat in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving it in places where it may get crushed or deformed (like in a tight bag). If possible, store it on a hat rack, or place it in a dust bag or box to maintain its shape.
- Avoid Crushing: Wool felt hats can lose their shape if crushed. If traveling, consider using a hat box or a sturdy container to ensure your hat maintains its structure during transit.
2. Cleaning Wool Felt Hats
Regular cleaning keeps your wool felt hat looking fresh and free from dirt and debris.
- Spot Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to gently dab away any dirt or stains. Avoid soaking the hat, as excess water can damage the wool fibers. For greasy spots, you can use a mild soap solution, but always test in an inconspicuous area first.
- Dry Cleaning: Wool felt hats generally do not require frequent washing. For more thorough cleaning, it's best to take the hat to a professional cleaner who specializes in wool or fine fabrics. Avoid machine washing or aggressive scrubbing: it will do more damage than good.
- Lint Removal: Use a lint roller or a soft brush to remove lint, dust, and other small debris from the surface of your wool felt hat. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fibers or altering the texture.
3. Restoring Shape and Removing Creases
Wool felt has a natural ability to hold its shape, but over time, creases or distortions can occur. Here’s how to restore your hat’s form:
- Steam for Shape: If your hat becomes misshapen, steam it gently with a steam iron held at a distance, or use a steamer. Hold the hat over the steam and allow the heat and moisture to soften the fibers. Once softened, reshape the hat with your hands and allow it to dry naturally. Do not apply steam directly to the fabric, as it can cause water spots or shrinkage.
- Crown and Brim Care: For hats with a structured crown, gently reshape it by using your fingers or a hat mold. If the brim becomes bent or deformed, carefully work it back into place by hand. Avoid forcing it, as this could cause damage.
If you are unsure about steaming, reshaping or otherwise restoring your Feliz hat, do not hesitate to contact us or ask for advice in store.
4. Protecting Your Wool Felt Hat
Wool felt is naturally water-resistant, but it’s not waterproof. Prolonged exposure to water can distort or stain the fabric.
- Water Resistance: If you anticipate exposure to rain or snow, treat your wool felt hat with a water-repellent spray designed for wool or felt. Always test the spray on a hidden area of the hat, such as the inside of the crown, before applying it to the entire surface.
- Avoid Heavy Rain: If your hat does get wet, blot it gently with a dry cloth to absorb moisture, then reshape it and let it air dry naturally. Never place your hat near a direct heat source, such as a radiator or heater, as it can cause the fibers to shrink or become stiff.
- Stain Prevention: To avoid stains from makeup, sweat, or oils, try to be mindful when wearing your hat in situations where it might come into direct contact with such substances. If you do get a stain, spot clean it immediately using the methods described above.
5. Storing Your Wool Felt Hat
Proper storage helps maintain the shape and condition of your wool felt hat.
- Hat Rack or Stand: If possible, store your hat on a hat rack or stand to maintain its structure. Ensure that the rack is tall enough to support the crown without crushing the brim.
- Dust Bag or Box: When not in use for long periods, store your hat in a breathable dust bag or a sturdy box to protect it from dust, dirt, crushing, and accidental damage. Avoid using plastic bags, as they trap moisture, which can affect the wool.
- Avoid Storing in Humid Areas: Wool felt can absorb moisture, which can cause it to lose its shape, grow mildew, or develop an unpleasant odor. Store your hat in a dry, cool area with good airflow.
6. Repair and Maintenance
Over time, your wool felt hat might require minor repairs to keep it in excellent condition.
- Loose Threads or Seams: If you notice any loose stitching, carefully trim any stray threads with sharp scissors. If necessary, take the hat to a professional hatmaker or tailor for repairs to prevent the issue from worsening.
- Professional Restoration: For significant damage (such as a bent crown, major creases, or fading), consult a professional hat restorer who specializes in wool felt. They can help repair and restore the hat to its original condition.
7. Seasonal Care
- Winter Care: Wool felt hats are excellent for colder weather, but ensure you protect them from excessive moisture and snow. When you bring your hat indoors after being outside in the snow or rain, allow it to air dry naturally, reshaping it if needed. Never dry your hat near a direct heat source to prevent shrinking and deformation.
- Summer Care: In warmer months, store your wool felt hat in a cool place to avoid any risk of heat damage. You may also want to store it in a dust bag when not in use to prevent dust buildup.
By following these simple care instructions, your Feliz handmade wool felt hat will remain a stylish and functional accessory for years to come.
Commonly asked questions about caring for your handmade wool felt hat
1. How do I clean a wool felt hat?
Gently brush off dirt with a soft brush. If it needs washing, spot clean with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging in water as it can damage the felt.
2. Can I reshape a wool felt hat?
Yes, steam the hat gently to reshape it. Use your hands to mold it back into its original form while it’s still damp.
3. How should I store my wool felt hat?
Store it in a cool, dry place. Use a hatbox or a shelf with enough space to maintain its shape. Avoid crushing it under heavy objects.
Thank you for choosing Feliz. We’re committed to creating products that not only stand the test of time in design but also in quality and craftsmanship.