FAQs
How do I store my Hat Doctor hat?
The best place for your hat is on your head, as this allows the brim to hang naturally. Avoid leaving your hat in your vehicle, as heat can cause it to lose shape and size. Spring-loaded hat holders in vehicle cabs can flatten the brim and damage the crown. Designate a safe spot in your home, ideally near where you take off your boots. Keep your hat up and out of reach of children and pets. Never store your hat brim-side down.
When your Hat Doctor hat is not on your head, store it using one of the following:
When your Hat Doctor hat is not on your head, store it using one of the following:
- Hat Stand
- Wood Peg: Hang it far enough from the wall so the brim doesn't touch.
- Hat Can: Make sure it's properly adjusted to fit your hat size and that the hat doesn’t touch the sides. (We now offer large hat cans for wider brims.) Store the hat can in a cool area away from heat sources.
If you're unable to hang your hat: Temporarily place it upside down on its crown. This method is only recommended for short-term storage.
How do I remove a stain from my hat?
Most stains are caused by food or beverages, which usually crystallize and can be brushed off once dry. However, sweat and grease stains require proper dilution and professional cleaning by Hat Doctor. Be cautious with acidic stains (e.g., soda or blood). These can cause permanent damage if not immediately diluted or rinsed with cold water.
Can I wear my Hat Doctor hat in the rain?
Yes, you can wear your hat in the rain, though prolonged exposure may cause it to become soft until it dries. Do not handle it while it’s wet. Just hang it up and let it drip until it’s dry. Pure beaver felt hats naturally repel moisture, one of the advantages of the beaver's adaptation to its aquatic environment. There's no need for a plastic hat cover. However, other types of hats, such as blended wool or fur felts, may not withstand wet weather as well. These blends may also bleed colour—it's not just your mascara running!
Are felt hats hot in the summer?
Not at all. Beaver felt hats actually help keep you cool by blocking the sun from heating the top of your head while still allowing your scalp to breathe.
Is a light colour hat cooler?
No. While a light-coloured hat might look cooler, it doesn’t actually provide a cooler feel.
Will my hat colour fade in the sunlight?
The natural colour of your Hat Doctor hat may fade slightly with sun exposure, but that subtle change only adds to its unique character. To help maintain its original shape and size, always store your hat away from heat sources and out of direct sunlight.
How do I measure my head for a new custom hat?
No two heads are the same. Most have unique bumps and dips, and very few are perfectly shaped. That's why an in-person fitting is ideal when ordering a custom hat. However, we understand this may not always be possible.
If you're unable to visit Hat Doctor for a personal fitting, follow these steps to measure your head at home:
If you're unable to visit Hat Doctor for a personal fitting, follow these steps to measure your head at home:
Size: Use a fabric measuring tape—make sure it is not stretchy. Place the tape in the dip above your brow bone at the front and just above the occipital bone (the bump that sticks out) at the back. Imagine the brim of the hat at the bottom edge of the tape, and be sure the tape is just high enough to clear the tops of your ears. The tape should sit exactly where your hat usually does.
Ensure your fingers are not between your head and the tape—it has happened! Record your size in inches, down to 1/16 of an inch. The tape should not be tight or snug at all. Remember: hats always shrink.
Shape: Most people have a long oval head, which is why most manufactured hats in stores are made in that shape. Oddly enough, both Carole and Greg have regular oval (slightly rounder) heads. To check your head shape, try on a long oval hat. If it "bites" at the sides of your head, you likely have a regular oval shape. Please tell us whether your head is Long Oval or Regular Oval.
How soon will I receive my new custom hat?
Each hat is handcrafted, and a quality product takes time. Please allow 12-18 months for your hat to be completed after your order is received and confirmed by Hat Doctor.
How soon will I get back my renovated hat?
Each hat renovation is done by hand and, depending on the work required, may take some time. Please allow 3-4 months for the renovation of your hat after your order is received and confirmed by Hat Doctor.
Do you take rush orders or orders for a specific date, like a wedding or special occasion?
Yes, we may be able to process a rush order, but please call Hat Doctor in advance to check availability before sending one. Additional charges will apply. If you need your custom or renovated hat by a specific date, be sure to place your order well in advance and confirm timing with Hat Doctor directly.
How do you ship orders, what does shipping usually cost, and how long will shipping take?
We ship all orders via Canada Post, both within Canada and internationally. Shipping charges are calculated based on your location and will be added to your final invoice. Delivery times vary depending on your location and the service selected, but please allow 2-3 days or more for your order to arrive. Alternate courier services will be used in the event of any postal service disruption.
How do I send my hat to Canada for renovations from an international location?
We welcome renovation orders from around the world! However, please contact us first by email or phone before shipping your hat internationally.
Important Instructions for Our International Customers
When shipping your hat to Canada for renovations, it is essential to fill out the Customs section of the shipping form correctly. Failure to do so may result in Canadian duties, taxes, or additional tariffs imposed by Canada Customs. Any such charges will be added to your final Hat Doctor repair bill.
When Completing the Customs Section of the Shipping Form, Please Include the Following:
When Completing the Customs Section of the Shipping Form, Please Include the Following:
- Temporary Export for Repairs
This note may help you avoid duty and GST charges, though final decisions are at the discretion of Canada Customs during processing.