One of the best things about DTF transfers is how well they hold up — as long as you take care of them properly. Here's how to keep your designs looking fresh wash after wash:
Wash inside out. This is the single best thing you can do. Turning the garment inside out protects the print from friction and abrasion during the wash cycle.
Use cold or warm water. Stick to cold or warm water (up to 105°F / 40°C). Hot water can break down the adhesive over time and cause cracking or peeling.
Gentle cycle is your friend. A gentle or delicate wash cycle puts less stress on the print. Avoid heavy-duty cycles whenever possible.
Skip the bleach. Bleach and DTF transfers do not get along. It will fade and damage the print — even "color-safe" bleach should be avoided.
Tumble dry on low. High heat in the dryer is one of the biggest culprits for DTF print damage. Low heat or air dry is the way to go. If you're in a hurry, low heat for a short cycle is fine.
No dry cleaning. The chemicals used in dry cleaning can break down the adhesive and ruin the print.
Ironing? If you need to iron the garment, always iron on the reverse side and never directly on the print. If you must press the front, use a pressing cloth or parchment paper between the iron and the design.
Following these simple steps will keep your DTF print vibrant and intact for years to come.