Are custom hats durable? How long do they last? Maybe you’ve found a good price on a custom hat, or just got a new one from an event. Now, you are probably wondering how to take care of it and how long it will last. As you can probably guess, it depends on a few factors, which we’ll be exploring today.
Materials and Custom Hat Durability
Unsurprisingly, the first thing to consider for your custom hat’s durability is the materials used to make it. Several materials are common for hat-making, both natural and synthetic:
- Cotton – One of the less durable materials.
- Wool – Very durable when properly cared for.
- Acrylic – Highly durable synthetic material.
- Polyester – Another highly durable synthetic material.
- Nylon – Probably the most durable commonly used material.
While durability is an important reason people decide on hat materials, it’s not the only one – other factors like performance and sustainability matter, too.
Pro Tip: Check if the hat you’re looking at uses blended materials, as a way to get the best of all worlds.
Making Custom Hat Logos Last: Pick the Right Printing Method
Beyond the structure of the hat itself, the printing method determines how long your logo/design will be on the hat. While there are other factors in deciding on a printing method, durability is very important. We’ll look at the most common printing methods below.
Printing Method 1: Embroidery
- Embroidery is the most durable option for attaching your logo to your hat.
- It can last for years.
- The design is stitched directly into the hat’s fabric.
- It is a permanent part of the hat.
Printing Method 2: Patches
- They can be just as durable as embroidery.
- If stitched on, patches are also effectively permanent.
- If ironed on, patches are less durable, but can still be long-lasting.
- It is possible to tear patches off, but it is uncommon with proper care.
Printing Method 3: Screen Printing
- Screen printing is a good middle ground.
- The design will likely crack or fade away over time.
- Screen printing is affected by both washing and sun exposure.
- Some people may like the distressed look as the hat ages.
Printing Method 4: Direct To Film (DTF)
DTF can be durable if applied well and cared for properly, but if not, they are the most susceptible to the wear and tear listed below:
- It can fade or crack, like screen printing.
- Additionally, it risks peeling off at the edges.
- High heat increases these risks, so proper hat care is essential.
*DTF Definition: Also known as “heat transfer,” Direct-to-Film printing methods involve printing logos onto transfer paper, applying glue, and then transferring the ink directly to fabric.
Craftsmanship Makes Your Custom Hat Last
Even using the sturdiest materials and the most durable logo application methods, you could end up with a poor quality hat. How? Using the wrong manufacturer set up even the best custom hat plans for failure.
Be sure to work with a reputable seller who has experience with custom hat making. It’s an added bonus to work with a union printing shop, which gives you another layer of quality assurance.
Custom Hat Makes/Brands and Durability
Some manufacturers will let you pick from a variety of hat makes/brands – the more premium brands are also the ones likely to last the longest:
- Budget brands include Valucap and Port Authority
- Mid-range brands include Flexfit and Richardson
- High-end brands include Carhartt and Nike
Washing Method – The Secret to Custom Hat Durability
Washing your hat properly is an often-overlooked step in ensuring your custom hat lasts as long as it can. Improper washing and care techniques can damage the hat, increasing wear and cutting down its durability.
Step 1: Determine if your hat has a cardboard or plastic brim.
Step 2: Dissolve detergent in lukewarm water.
Step 3: Spot clean the hat, using a brush.
Step 4*: Soak the hat in the sudsy water.
Step 5*: Rinse the soap off the hat.
Step 6: Dry your hat using a towel and/or the air.
*Important Note: Skip steps 4 and 5 for cardboard-brimmed hats!
Call Hat.Co Today for Quality, Durable Custom Hats
For durable, long-lasting custom hats that stand the test of time, take advantage of Hat.Co’s experience and commitment to quality. We offer a variety of hat and customization options, and are ready to make you something that will last.
Reach out online for a free quote or call us now at (636) 926-2777 to start building your new favorite hat today.