Care of Your Panama Hat

The fine hat you have purchased is an authentic Panama Hat. Each hat is woven entriely by hand. The brim of your soft Panama Hat can be gently shaped by hand. Don't be afriad to gently work and roll the brim to the desired shape. However, do not pull at the folded or woven brim edge.

If the hat has become squashed or misshaped, it can be lightly steamed over the spout of a boiling tea kettle while gently shaping the hat with your fingers to fix a flattened or distorted brim. Brims are usually easier to fix than a squashed crown. Often a flat brim can be refreshed by using a steam iron set to low heat. Be sure to cover the hat brim with a clean cotton cloth while ironing the brim.

The Panama Hat is an ideal sun hat -- lightweight, cool and comfortable. A Panama Hat is not a rain hat. Whenever possible avoid wearing your Panama in the rain. If you Panama Hat gets wet, handle it carefully to avoid changing its shape until it dries. And never pinch the hat crown. Always handle your Panama by the brim.

 Some Panama models may have "Made in U.S.A." printed on the sweatband. This label refers to the band only and means the hat, if a true Panama, was still hand-woven in Ecuador but trimmed in the United States.

To clean you Panama, use a damp, clean cloth with mild soap (no detergent). Never use bleach.