there is no 'Rocket Science' way to successfully wash your rocket science hats

[southwestforests]

Turns out there is no 'Rocket Science' way to successfully wash your rocket science hats, at least not safely, they have to be done the old fashioned way by hand in the sink with a mild detergent/soap such as Woolite.

Everything I could find about machine washing them said it would be ill advised or at the least somewhat chancy.

Even the Maytag-Whirlpool washing machine company said that,

If you’ve ever wondered how to wash a hat, you’re not alone. While you may have heard you can wash a hat in the dishwasher or washing machine, it’s best to stick with hand washing to avoid bending the hat out of shape. Some parts of your hat, specifically the bill, are structured items, making hand washing helpful for preserving its specific shape.

It’s possible to wash a hat in the washing machine using the Delicates/Gentle cycle, but you still run the risk of the hat losing its structured shape due to friction and pressure caused by the washer’s agitation. To help keep hats looking great for as long as possible, avoid washing them in the washing machine and hand clean them as needed.

Can you wash a baseball cap in the dishwasher?

It’s not recommended to wash a baseball cap in the dishwasher. While you may have heard that it’s okay to clean a hat in the dishwasher, the high heat and harsh, bleach-based dish detergents can damage fibers and remove color from the hat. Wash your baseball caps by hand to help avoid potential damage.

https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-wash-a-baseball-cap.html

Guess the following is in large part because they are, or at least all but one or two of my caps/hats are, 100% cotton.

Can you put your hat in the dryer? You should not put your baseball cap in the dryer, otherwise it could shrink and become misshapen. Instead, let the hat air dry by hanging it up or laying it on a towel.

How to Wash a Baseball Cap (the Right Way)

If your favorite baseball cap is a dirty, sweaty mess, here's the best way to wash it. Hint: don't just toss it into the washing machine.

www.realsimple.com

How to wash a baseball cap in the washing machine

When you’re short on time or sink space, or have a hat that you're not too concerned about, this set-it-but-don’t-forget-it method is a huge help.

That bit, or have a hat that you're not too concerned about does totally NOT apply to the Starship Modeler cap!
Or the NASA hats.

How to Wash a Baseball Cap to Keep It Looking Great

The good news is that you can do it by hand or use a washing machine.

www.goodhousekeeping.com

Interestingly, interior front of Starship Modeler cap has a layer of stiffening fabric which the NASA caps do not.