Whether you’re repping your favorite four-legged friend at the dog park or just love the look of your Patches & Pets hat, we know it’s more than just a cap—it’s a connection. These hats become part of our everyday adventures, which means they deserve a little TLC to keep them looking fresh.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to wash, store, and preserve your dog breed hat, so it stays just as bold and comfy as the day it arrived.
Washing Basics: Gentle is Best

To keep your hat (and its detailed embroidered patch) looking sharp, we recommend hand-washing:
Hand Wash Instructions:
Fill a sink or bowl with lukewarm water.
Add a small amount of mild detergent.
Gently agitate the water and lightly scrub with a soft cloth or sponge.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Gently press out excess moisture—don’t wring!
Reshape and let air dry on a clean towel or hat form.
Machine Washing? Only if necessary.
Turn the hat inside out.
Place in a mesh laundry bag.
Use the gentle cycle with cold water.
Air dry only—never tumble dry.
Stain & Odor Removal Tips
Life happens—so do slobbery kisses and muddy trails. Here’s how to handle stubborn spots:
Pre-treat stains with a dab of pet-safe enzyme cleaner or a mild baking soda paste.
For odor removal, soak in a 1:3 white vinegar and water solution for 15 minutes, then rinse well.
Avoid bleach or stain pens—they can damage stitching or fade the patch.
How to Store Your Hat Like a Pro
Preserving the shape and color of your dog hat is all about smart storage.
Store in a cool, dry place—avoid basements or anywhere humid.
Keep it on a hat rack or use a form to maintain the shape.
Avoid direct sunlight (especially through windows) to prevent fading.
Add a cedar ball or lavender sachet to keep it smelling fresh and pest-free.
Stitch Repair & Touch-Ups
Notice a loose thread or worn edge? No need to panic.
Use a small needle and matching thread to gently reinforce stitches.
For lint or dust, a soft clothes brush or lint roller works wonders.
Keep It Looking Good for Years to Come
Your Patches & Pets dog breed hat is a reflection of your dog’s personality and your love for them. With just a bit of regular care, it’ll stay trail-ready, tailgate-ready, and photo-ready for seasons to come.
Have care questions?
Contact us here and we’ll be happy to help!