As experts in clothing printing methods, we want to make sure you get the most wear out of your new printed t-shirts, printed polo shirts, printed hoodies, and other garments. To help your custom clothing and personalisations stand the test of time, we recommend you follow our advice on how to wash clothes with prints on them and take the best care for your items.
Our Top 3 Tips
When it comes to how to wash printed clothes, we have three major tips we encourage you to follow:
- Wash your garments at 30°C
- Wash your garments with similar items (colour and texture)
- Iron on the reverse side of the print
Following these tips and the advice from our wash care guide will help you maintain the quality of your customisations. But if you want to ensure even more longevity (for both the print and clothing itself) keep reading.
Preparing Printed Clothes for the Wash
Check Garments
Before washing, it’s crucial to inspect each garment carefully. Close any zips to prevent them from catching on other items during the wash. Unbutton all buttons to avoid stress on the fabric that can lead to tears or misshapen buttonholes. Additionally, check pockets thoroughly for small objects like coins, keys, or tissues, which can cause damage to both the garment and the washing machine.
Turn Inside Out
To protect printed applications – whether DTG, heat transfer, or screen-printed – turn them inside out before washing. This simple step reduces friction during the wash cycle, helping to preserve the integrity and vibrancy of the designs. It also minimises pilling and keeps the fabric’s outer surface looking newer for longer.
How to Wash Printed Clothes
Temperature
Washing at 30°C is not only energy-efficient but also helps preserve the fabric’s integrity, colour vibrancy, and any prints or embroidery. This temperature is gentle on most fabrics, reducing the risk of shrinking or fading.
Similar Items
Grouping similar colours and fabrics reduces the chances of bleeding and friction, which can cause pilling or damage. This practice helps maintain the original texture and look of your garments as well as their customisations.
Drying and Ironing Printed Clothes
Avoid Tumble Drying
Tumble drying generates high heat that can shrink fabrics and cause prints to crack or peel. Instead, opt for air drying in a shaded area to preserve the garment’s quality as well as the colours of the customisation.
Ironing
When ironing, avoid direct contact with prints or embroidery. Use a low-heat setting and place a protective cloth over the area or iron the garment inside out to prevent damage to the designs.
What to Avoid
Bleach or Dry Cleaning
Bleach is harsh and can severely deteriorate the fabric’s quality and any customisations. It’s best reserved for whites without any prints or embroidery and only when absolutely necessary. Even more so, the chemicals used in dry cleaning can weaken or damage prints and embroidery, leading to premature wear. Stick to washing at home according to the recommended guidelines.
Overloading the Machine
Overloading can cause excessive friction between garments, leading to pilling, tears, or distortion of the fabric and any customisations. Keep loads manageable to ensure a thorough, gentle wash.
Bonus Tips
Always Read the Label
Reading your garment’s specific care label is essential for preserving its quality and lifespan, especially for items with personalisations and special fabrics. This label provides precise instructions for washing, drying, and ironing, tailored to the specific item of clothing. By following these guidelines, you can further prevent damage such as fading, shrinking, or cracking of prints, ensuring that your garments maintain their appearance and functionality over time.
Watch Our Wash Guide Video
If you need any further clarification, go ahead and watch our video that illustrates all the tips mentioned above!
Conclusion
Learning how to wash screen-printed clothes and take proper care of your garments isn’t just about following instructions – it’s about investing in the longevity and appearance of the clothing you love. By dedicating a little extra attention to washing, drying, and handling your clothes, you’re ensuring that the colours remain vibrant, the fabrics stay soft, and the custom designs look as fresh as the day you got them. This mindful approach to garment care not only preserves the quality of your wardrobe but also enhances your connection to each piece, making them last longer and feel better.
If you need any more tips, don’t be afraid to get in touch with us; we’d be more than happy to offer additional guidance!
