How to Care for Your Scrum Cap

Your scrum cap takes a beating every session — sweat, mud, grass, and contact. Look after it properly and it will protect you for seasons to come. Here's everything you need to know about cleaning, drying, and storing your rugby headgear.

Why Scrum Cap Care Matters

Beyond hygiene, regular care preserves the structural integrity of the padding and straps. A cap that's been left damp or stored incorrectly can degrade faster, which means reduced protection exactly when you need it most.

How to Clean Your Scrum Cap

After Every Session

• Wipe down the inside with a damp cloth to remove sweat and debris.
• Air it out — don't leave it in your kit bag or car boot where heat and moisture build up.

Deep Clean (Weekly or as Needed)

• Hand wash only — fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent or sports wash.
• Gently work the soapy water through the cap, paying attention to the ear guards and inner lining.
• Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains.
• Do not machine wash — the agitation and heat can warp the padding and weaken the seams.
• Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals — these break down the foam padding and can irritate your skin.

Drying Your Scrum Cap

• Reshape the cap by hand while it's still damp.
• Air dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources (radiators, dryers).
• Direct heat causes the foam padding to compress and the outer shell to stiffen or crack.
• Allow it to dry completely before storing — a damp cap stored in an enclosed space will develop odour and mould.

Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dry place with good airflow — not compressed at the bottom of a bag.
• Avoid leaving it on dashboards or in hot cars, especially during South African summers.
• If you're not playing for an extended period, hang it or store it in a mesh bag rather than a sealed container.

When to Replace Your Scrum Cap

Even with good care, scrum caps don't last forever. Consider replacing yours if you notice:

• Padding that no longer springs back after compression
• Cracked, torn, or separating outer shell
• Straps that no longer fasten securely
• Persistent odour that doesn't clear after washing
• Visible deformation that affects fit

A compromised cap offers compromised protection. When it's time for a new one, browse the Collide Sport Scrum Cap range — and use our Sizing Chart to make sure your next cap fits perfectly from the start.

Quick Reference: Do's and Don'ts

Do	Don't
Hand wash with mild detergent	Machine wash or tumble dry
Air dry at room temperature	Dry near heat or in direct sun
Reshape while damp	Store while still wet
Store in a cool, ventilated space	Leave in a sealed bag or hot car
Inspect regularly for wear	Ignore signs of padding breakdown