Panama Hat Care Instructions
The Golden Rule
Do not pinch the front tightly.
Panama hats are made of woven Toquilla straw. If you constantly grab the hat by the "pinch" at the front of the crown, the straw will eventually show signs of damage. Always handle a Panama by the brim.
Maintaining Your Panama Hat
- Daily Handling: To preserve the shape of the crown, always lift your hat by the brim. Avoid pinching the front tightly, as repeated pressure will eventually cause the natural straw to show signs of damage.
- Cleaning: A light touch with a damp cloth is all that's needed to keep your hat looking fresh. Avoid chemical cleaners.
- Dry Naturally: Panama hats are not fans of the rain! If your hat gets wet, let it dry naturally on a flat surface. Do not use a radiator or high heat, as this can shrink the straw.
- Storage: Store your hat in a cool, dry place. While our hats are rollable, they should not be kept rolled for more than 48 hours to ensure they "spring back" perfectly.
Rolling Your Panama Hat
Please do not roll your hat until you have worn it for a few days, or ideally weeks. The natural oils it will absorb as you wear it help to fit it to the precise shape of your head and soften the fibres, making the rolling process easier. View instructions on rolling your Borges & Scott Panama hat.
Using the Pull Tie to Adjust Your Hat
Gently pull the two small ribbons in the sweatband until the hat fits snugly. Once the desired fit is achieved, tie the ribbons in a bow to secure.

Reshaping Your Hat
- Reshaping & Steaming: If your hat loses its shape, use a garment steamer or the steam from a kettle to soften the fibres. Once soft, gently mold the hat back to its original form.
- Flattening the Brim: Use a warm iron with a tea towel placed between the iron and the straw. Do not apply the iron directly to the hat.
How to Find Your Hat Size
Please visit How to find the right size Panama Hat
Need Help?
Have questions about your Panama hat? Drop us an email at sales@borgesandscott.com and our team will be happy to assist.