How to Wash DTF Printed Shirts So They Last

A well-pressed DTF print can outlast the shirt it’s on. Most “the print peeled” or “it cracked” complaints come down to two things: how it was pressed, and how it was washed. Here are the care rules we recommend. Copy them onto a care card or your product listing so your customers see them too.

The care rules

1. Wait 24 hours before the first wash. The adhesive keeps curing after pressing.
2. Turn the shirt inside out. Less rubbing against other clothes and the drum.
3. Wash cold or warm, not hot. A normal or gentle cycle is fine.
4. Use regular mild detergent. Skip bleach, and go easy on fabric softener, which can weaken adhesives over time.
5. Tumble dry low, or hang dry. High heat is the fastest way to shorten a print’s life.
6. Never iron directly on the print. Iron inside out, or put a cloth or parchment paper between the iron and the design.
7. No dry cleaning. The solvents can attack the print.

Short version for your customers

If a print is failing, check the pressing first

Edges lifting after a few washes

Usually not enough pressure or time, or a seam that kept the press from making full contact. Press again for 10–15 seconds with parchment on top to re-bond the edges, and next time use a pressing pillow on garments with seams or zippers.

Cracking

Often means the transfer was under-pressed, or skipped the second press after peeling. Our pressing guide has the exact temperature, time and pressure for each fabric.

Faded or dull colors

Almost always hot water or high-heat drying. Switch to cold wash and low or no heat.

Get the settings on one page

Download our free DTF press settings cheat sheet and keep it next to your heat press. Need transfers? Our 12" × 12" sheets start at $3.50 each in quantity. See prices.

Keep reading

• How to Start a T-Shirt Business in NYC Without Buying a Printer
• Why DTF Printers Clog (and When Buying Transfers Makes More Sense)
• DTF vs Sublimation vs HTV: Which Should You Use?