The following is a buying guide to help you make a well-informed and worthy decision.
What Things to Keep In Mind When Buying a Gardening Hat?
With so many varieties, brim types, designs, colors, and materials out there, choosing something to save your skin can be challenging. Here are the key things to consider when buying a gardening hat for ample sun protection.
Protection
Some gardening hats are only used to protect your head from sunlight, while others add an extra layer of sun protection with the help of brims. In summers, people prefer straw hats with brims for any outdoor activity. In contrast, brimless hats are a typical purchase during the winters.
Size of the brim
Every hat has a different brim that depends on your requirement and sense of style. Gardening hats with shorter brim may look appealing but won’t be as effective in protecting you from the harmful rays of the sun. On the other hand, a straw hat with larger brim can protect you from sunlight but may restrict the view. Usually, a 4 to 6-inch brim is considered normal but opt for a hat with a 7-inch brim if you want good sun protection.
Material
From cotton to polyester or a blend of both, hats are made from different materials. The type of material you pick depends on your need for a hat. For instance, if you want to spend sweaty hours in a garden check if the sun hat is lightweight with water-absorbing qualities. Microfiber hats are a common choice among people looking for a hat that allows ventilation, great sun protection and is easy to clean. The material also determines the UPF factor of your hat, indicating how much heat it can absorb.
Color
The color of your gardening hat also plays a role in the success of your purchase. Light colors reflect heat, but darker colors absorb heat, making you sweat more and feel hot. Usually, gardeners opt for light-colored hats that facilitate adequate airflow.
Style
Your personal style dictates you when picking a sun hat. Some people take a minimalistic approach with their gardening hats. Others just lay off a foundation for colors, designs, and motifs. Males usually go for the color and purpose while females consider even the most minor details like patterns, color contrast, and color combination.
Why Should You Buy a Gardening Hat?
No one likes to invest their money in a product unless they know the benefits of owning one. Following are key reasons why you should buy a gardening hat.
Protection from UV rays
Harmful sun rays are hazardous to unprotected skin as they cause conditions like melanoma, skin burn, and even cancer. Hats are the best way to protect yourself from these dangerous sun rays. A typical hat with a standard 6-inch brim is perfect for protection from the sun.
Eye health maintenance
Other than skin, eyes are the prime target for the sun. It can damage your eyes and cause problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. For long outdoor activities, wearing a straw hat with chin strap can prevent your eyes from getting directly exposed to the sun.
Temperature regulation
Outdoor activities during summer days can increase your body temperature. Without proper rest, you may end up getting fatigued. Wear a wide brimmed sun hat made of lightweight material during outdoor activities to maintain and regulate your body temperature.
Reduce hair damage
Harmful sun rays can destroy the texture of your hair, leaving them discolored, brittle, and unappealing. You can reduce the risk of hair damage by wearing a snug fit, UPF 50 hat for outdoor activities.
Prevents scalp sunburn
Harmful sun rays can cause scalp sunburn that results in an itchy scalp with tenderness and even blisters. Instead of going through pain, opt for prevention. A gardening hat with UPF 50+ can provide great sun protection to your scalp.
Which Materials Are Gardening Hats Normally Made From?
Modern-day garden hats are made from cotton, wool, man-made fabrics, or a blend of both.
Polyester
This synthetic fiber made from recyclable plastic is the top fabric used in most gardening hats. Besides being durable and waterproof, it is a quick-dry fabric that prevents sweat from trickling out and irritating you. Most people prefer polyester because of its waterproof properties.
Nylon
For a thin and lightweight experience, people prefer Nylon hats. Made from recyclable plastic as well, nylon is a breathable fabric that ensures air ventilation throughout your hat. Resistant to water and shrinkage, nylon hats are typically used for winter hats.
Cotton
Cotton is a naturally existing material that helps to make breathable and lightweight hats. This hypoallergenic product is normally blended with other fabrics like polyester to improve its quality while increasing the softness of a hat.
Linen
Another natural fiber extracted from the flax plant, linen is a highly plush and breathable item. It is the perfect fabric for summer hats but can be a bit expensive as compared to polyester and cotton.
How to Maintain the Quality of Your Hat?
Maintaining the quality and life of your gardening hat is a difficult task. Follow these simple tips to keep your best gardening hat clean without hampering its quality.
Avoid overcleaning
Too much scrubbing will destroy the fabric and eventually lead to discoloration and damage. Soak your hat in saltwater for 12 to 24 hours. Rinse to remove any mixture traces by washing and let it dry thoroughly before using it again.
Only use laundry detergent
Cleaners like dishwashers or soap can stick to the surface of your hat, leading to a change in color and quality of fabric. A laundry detergent does not dissolve and is easy to remove, making your washing experience simple and easy.
Natural drying
Using a dryer on your beautifully washed garden hat may not be the right thing to do. Instead, air-drying it in direct sunlight (or shade) is the safest way without hampering the quality of your wide brimmed sun hat.
If you are still confused and wondering how to clean your hat in home, check this video for suggestions.
Conclusion
Gardening in summers can be tough as your body is exposed to harmful rays of the sun. However, you can protect yourself and work at the same time by wearing a gardening hat. They are usually designed with a wide brim and has UPF 50 fabric to prevent sunlight from harming your skin. We have shortlisted some of the best gardening hats that can also be used for other outdoor activity.
To buy the right gardening hat, you must emphasize the size of the product, type of material, color, and intention to use. While a straw hat can protect your skin and eyes from the harmful sun rays, you must focus on their cleaning method to maintain their quality and prevent discoloration. Find out what you want in a garden hat first, and by keeping our buying guide in mind, you will be able to buy the best gardening hat that meets your requirements.
