How to Clean Hat

[dpoidy]

have a RCN 1960s POs hat, a little stained and do not want to ruin, what is the best cleaner to brighten up the white?

Thanks

[Dave Hutson]

Is it Plastic or Cloth.

Either way the best way is to do what we all did - buy a white hat cover - but I doubt you can do that these days. Alternatively find a seamstress, give her [or he] the hat and ask for one to be made.

Dave H

[Matelot]

We used toothpaste and an old brush, wipe off with a cloth.

[tonclass]

We used toothpaste and an old brush, wipe off with a cloth.

Used to use washing powder, a dab of ogin and a toothbrush !! Always came up sparkling... Hope that helps ;)

[seaJane]

Other half (PO Comms RNR) uses toothpaste.

[John O'Callaghan]

Hi dpoidy! The best way ever to clean a naval hat is to soak it in a mixture of furnace fuel oil and diesel (about 50-50 solution but exact measures are not critical) Bundle in a kitbag or locker for 3 months in the tropics (may need 6 months in more temperate climates) Remove from locker/kitbag and scrape off excess mould .Bathe in a mixture of rum,beer and cigarette ash (again exact measures are not critical). Rinse in a storm drain (Singapores are nice, Alongapo,Hong Kong, Siagon (now Ho Chi Mihn City) or Rabaul are accceptable but thre are a number of others which may suit those with limited time.Then tie to a piece of light line and tow in the ships wake for 24 hours. By this time your cap should be ready for wearing any port in the world worthwhile visiting.
Cheers John O'C.

[Matelot]

John LMAO, but you did forget one step, cap falling in urinal while using it to expel 3 pints of Bitters.

[oldsalt]

I've got to tip my cap to you ingenious guys.

[alanbenn]

Mild Green 'Fairy' Liquid......it's what all the Hands used:D


Regards
Alan

[John O'Callaghan]

Hi Matelot! The step you mention is only for those who want extra 'salty' look and is only allowed for three badge men. ODs attempting to sneak that one through will be placed on stoppage of 'Tiddly' uniform and required to wear Pussers issue rig for a period of not less than twelve months from the time the offence was detected. Reference Queens Regulations and Admiralty Instructions,The Articles Of War, Commander in Chiefs Directive,Ships Standing Orders and just good taste.
Cheer John O'C.

[dpoidy]

We used toothpaste and an old brush, wipe off with a cloth.


That worked

Thanks for the tips guys


Yes I think that cap has seen the world and many a bar/tots

[Matelot]

dpoidy, glad it worked. I misspoke in my original msg. I said use and old brush, I meant to say use your OPPOs toothbrush.:D

[seaJane]

None of this works if you were involved in the beetroot juice per fire hose episode... :p

[John O'Callaghan]

Hi Seajane! I'm sorry, nobody told me the hat was REALLY dirty.In that case try a little Semi gloss white Paint.Just dip the cap in the can and allow to dry before wearing.
Cheers John O'C.

[dpoidy]

have a RCN 1960s POs hat, a little stained and do not want to ruin, what is the best cleaner to brighten up the white?

Thanks


http://poidy.pages.qpg.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/dad.jpg.w300h195.jpg

[oldsalt]

Cleaning seems to be a complicated process, brushing the top of the blue cap, easy, brush half fore to aft the other half aft to fore'd. Very tiddly.