Try hair shampoo - you can even use one with conditioner, though I think that it doesn't wash quite as well.

Use just warm water and try to get it about the same temperature each time you wash or rinse. It is better if the hat - or whatever - is really dirty, to wash it several times, gently slooshing the warm water and detergent through the fabric until the water is discoloured and then drawing a new lot, and wash any scummy residue away between washes too.

If there is a decoration sewn onto the hat you might consider removing it and washing it separately if it is at all delicate, and if it will come off easily. It will reduce the wear and tear.

Wool prefers an acid pH so a splosh of white vinegar in the last rinse - it should be the 4th or 5th, really rinse out the detergent, will keep it happy. Squeeze the hat gently, then wrap it in a towel and squeeze several times changing to a bit of dry towel in between.

Leave to dry with a towel pressed into the hat to hold it the right shape, and smoothing out creases when still damp is easier than after it has dried out.

Anne the Pleater :ootd: