Akubra - Iconic Australian Hats - Hat Care (via Mowser)

Akubra Hat Care - Caring for your most prized possession

Here are some helpful hints that will keep your AKUBRA hat in top condition.

Style and Fit

Do not squeeze the front of your hat when putting it on your head as this in time will cause a sharp point which will be the first place the hat will wear. Tugging the brim to ensure the fit can spoil the brim if this is done continually.

To properly fit a hat, clear all hair away from the forehead and place the front of the hat (ribbon bow and size to the back) on the head: then by placing the palm of your hand on the back of the crown push the hat down. The hat should fit firmly on the head so that a good push down will make the hat stay in place on a windy day.

When trying a hat on you will occasionally find one size too small and the next too big. It is suggested that you purchase the larger one and insert a liner inside the leather sweatband to help the hat fit more snugly. A hat that feels too tight will never be comfortable. When the hat is new it may feel a little stiff. However, with wear the leather hatband will begin to mould to your head shape.

Brushing your Akubra

To keep your Akubra in shape it's best to give it a brush from time to time in an anti-clockwise direction with a soft bristled brush over a shot of steam (a kettle will do nicely). This will assist in returning the fur back to its original direction.

Akubra as a rain hat

Your Akubra makes a great rain hat. However if it becomes wet it is important that it be cared for correctly. Do not force dry the hat if it has become wet. The inside leather band will shrink and once this happens it is hard to stretch back to its original size. Akubra hats are shower-proof and include a water proofing solution. As the hat ages the water proofing during manufacture may break down and the felt will absorb water. However, generally your head will remain dry.

Hat Stand

To prevent distortion when not being worn, rest the hat upside down on the crown or hang it on a hat peg or hat rack.

Crown and Brim Distortions

If the hat brim is out of shape simply place the area over steam (a kettle will do nicely) until the area is moist. Remember not to get the inside band wet. The bent brim can be reshaped with your fingertips and any crown marks should simply disappear.

Removing Marks

If your Akubra is slightly soiled with dust and/or grime, firstly brush the hat in an anti-clockwise direction to remove any dust and then lightly rub the affected area with a paint thinner or dry cleaning fluid. Do not use too much. Car upholstery cleaner can be used. Spray on and leave for 15-20 seconds then wipe off with a damp cloth.

Any serious marks should be cleaned by a hat cleaning specialist only, please refer to our
list of hat refurbishers.

Fixing a Creased Ribbon

Creased Ribbons can easily be fixed using a touch of steam and a light rub.

The final touches

Feathers are available on most Akubra's. They should be positioned on the left hand side of the hat. On purchase of your new hat, the retailer should include a handy care card covered the points mentioned above.

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