There are countless ways to make the most of your Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printed t-shirts. Whether you’re creating memorable merchandise for your business, designing unique school shirts, or just creating something special for yourself, these versatile garments offer endless possibilities. DTG printing is particularly beloved for its ability to produce vibrant, detailed designs that stand the test of time. But like any cherished item, proper care is essential to maintain the quality and longevity of your custom tees.
Keeping your DTG printed t-shirts in great condition doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple care tips, you can ensure your favourite designs remain just as vivid and fresh as the day they were printed. Let’s dive into a comprehensive guide that covers everything from washing and drying to storing your DTG printed shirts, ensuring they stay in top-notch shape for years to come.
The basics of DTG printing
Before we get into the care tips, let’s quickly touch on what DTG printing is and why it’s a popular choice for t-shirt printing. DTG printing, or Direct-to-Garment printing, is a method that uses specialised inkjet technology to print designs directly onto fabric. This process allows for high-resolution, full-colour prints that are both soft to the touch and highly durable.
Unlike other methods, such as screen printing, DTG printing doesn’t require stencils or screens, making it ideal for producing smaller batches or even single custom pieces. This versatility makes it a go-to choice for individuals and businesses alike, whether you’re looking to print a single t-shirt or a whole batch of them.
Washing your DTG printed t-shirts
One of the most important aspects of caring for your DTG printed t-shirts is how you wash them. Here are some key tips to help preserve the integrity of the print:
1. Turn it inside out: Before tossing your shirt into the wash, be sure to turn it inside out. This simple step helps protect the printed design from friction and direct contact with other clothes, reducing the risk of fading or cracking.
2. Use cold water: Wash your DTG printed t-shirts in cold water. Hot water can cause the ink to break down faster, leading to fading. Cold water, on the other hand, is gentle on both the fabric and the print.
3. Choose the right detergent: Opt for a mild detergent that’s free from bleach or strong chemicals. Harsh detergents can damage the fibres of the fabric and the ink used in DTG printing, so stick with something gentle to ensure the longevity of your shirt.
4. Avoid heavy spin cycles: When it comes to the washing machine settings, choose a gentle or delicate cycle. Heavy spin cycles can cause unnecessary stress on the fabric and print, which can lead to cracking or peeling over time.
Drying your DTG printed t-shirts
Drying your DTG printed t-shirts properly is just as important as washing them. Improper drying methods can cause the print to deteriorate quickly. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Air dry when possible: The best way to dry your DTG printed t-shirts is by air drying them. Hang them up on a clothesline or lay them flat on a clean surface. This method helps prevent the heat damage that can occur from using a dryer.
2. Use low heat: If you need to use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting available. High heat can cause the ink to crack or fade, so it’s better to err on the side of caution. Even better, remove the t-shirts from the dryer while they’re still slightly damp and let them air dry the rest of the way.
3. Avoid direct sunlight: While air drying is preferred, try to keep your t-shirts out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the colours in the print to fade, so find a shaded spot to dry your shirts.
Storing your DTG printed t-shirts
Proper storage of your DTG printed t-shirts ensures that they remain in great condition, even when they’re not in use. Here are some storage tips to consider:
1. Fold, don’t hang: While it might be tempting to hang all your shirts in the closet, it’s actually better to fold DTG printed t-shirts. Hanging can stretch out the fabric, especially around the shoulders, which could affect the look of the print over time.
2. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your folded t-shirts in a cool, dry environment. Excessive heat or humidity can damage the fabric and the print. If possible, store them in a drawer or on a shelf where they’re not exposed to direct light.
3. Use acid-free tissue paper: For those extra special t-shirts, consider placing a sheet of acid-free tissue paper between the folds. This helps protect the print from rubbing against itself or other shirts, which can cause wear over time.
Treating stains on your DTG printed t-shirts
Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to know how to treat stains on your DTG printed t-shirts without damaging the print. Here’s how to handle common stains:
1. Act quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it will be to remove. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible.
2. Use a mild stain remover: Apply a mild, bleach-free stain remover to the affected area. Avoid rubbing the stain too vigorously, as this could damage the print.
3. Rinse with cold water: After treating the stain, rinse the area with cold water. If the stain persists, repeat the process or consider taking the shirt to a professional cleaner.
Conclusion
Caring for your DTG printed t-shirts doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips on washing, drying, storing, and treating stains, you can keep your custom designs looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. Whether your t-shirts are for personal use, merchandise, or special events, proper care will ensure they remain a treasured part of your wardrobe.
Looking to create more custom t-shirts? Direct T Shirt has been offering professional t-shirt printing services in Singapore since 1995. What started over 20 years ago as a silk screen positive film company has evolved into a one-stop solution for all your t-shirt printing needs. Specialising in everything from silkscreen to heat transfer printing, Direct T Shirt handles all printing in-house, delivering fast and professional results every time. Whether you need a single shirt or a bulk order, we’ve got you covered!
