Caring for Your DTF Printed Apparel: Wash & Care Instructions

Congratulations on creating a stunning piece of custom apparel! The design is vibrant, the print feels great, and you’re ready to wear it proudly. But how do you keep it looking like new, wash after wash?

The good news is that DTF transfers are incredibly durable. With just a little bit of proper care, you can ensure your custom creations last for years to come. Following these simple guidelines will preserve the vibrancy and prevent cracking or peeling.

The Golden Rules of Washing

• 1. Turn It Inside Out: This is the most important rule! Before you wash, turn the garment inside out. This protects the DTF print from abrasion and friction from other clothes, zippers, and the washing machine drum itself.
• 2. Use Cold Water: Machine wash on a cold cycle. Hot water can be harsh on the transfer’s adhesive over time. Cold water is gentle on both the print and the fabric, helping to maintain vibrancy.
• 3. Choose a Mild Detergent: Use a standard, mild detergent. Avoid harsh detergents or any products with bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the ink.

Drying for Maximum Durability

How you dry your custom apparel is just as important as how you wash it. High heat is the number one enemy of any garment print.

• Best Method: Hang to Dry. The safest and best way to dry your DTF-printed item is to hang it up to air dry. This completely avoids the risk of heat damage.
• Acceptable Method: Tumble Dry Low. If you must use a dryer, keep the garment turned inside out and use the lowest heat setting (or a “tumble” or “air-only” setting). Remove it from the dryer promptly.

A Note on Ironing

Need to get rid of a few wrinkles? No problem, but be very careful.

Never iron directly on the print! The intense heat from an iron will melt the transfer and ruin both your garment and your iron.

If you need to iron the garment, make sure it is turned inside out and use a low heat setting. Avoid the printed area as much as possible.