DTF Transfer Care: A Complete Guide to Washing DTF Printed Clothing

DTF prints are popular for their vibrant and durable effects. There is no denying that they look mesmerizing when brand new. However, you have to be extra careful if you want to maintain the quality of your prints. After many washes, the prints will still look perfect. It is very important to know the garment's color and the material you can use.

This guide will teach you the complete step-by-step process of cleaning DTF prints. You will explore a variety of tips and tricks and common mistakes that people usually make. Before we get to the cleaning, let's discuss why proper cleaning is important for maintaining your DTF prints.
 

Why Proper Washing Care Matters for DTF Prints?

DTF prints are widely used in the market due to their features. Proper washing is vital to improve the impacts of it. Proper washing, drying, and ironing are compulsory to maintain durability, flexibility, and vibrancy. Let us see why it is important:

• If you want the exact colors and vibrancy of the design after multiple washes, it is necessary not to use harsh detergent. Hot water and hard chemicals like bleach can fade the colors.
• DTF prints are flexible by default. It makes the prints flexible and avoids the cracks. However, extra heat from washing or drying can cause the design to crack or peel.
• Frequent washing may weaken the fabric. Moreover, it can cause the adhesive layer to be lost. If it is not secured properly, the print can fade away.
• If you want the longevity of prints and apply proper care, it can save the fabric and print from shrinking. If it gets shrink, the whole design could be distorted.
• Proper Deterioration can make the print last through multiple washes. These points make it necessary to follow the tips and tricks to wash and maintain the material properly.

Step-by-Step Washing Instructions for DTF Printed Clothing

Let’s discuss the step-by-step guide for washing, ironing, and drying the clothes.

The process of washing includes:

Turning Inside Out: 

First, you always have to turn the DTF-printed clothes inside out. This helps in preserving the print from abrasion.

Using Cold Water: 

Hot water can damage the fabric as well as the print colors. Always use cool water to wash the clothes. It is good for both fabric and design.

Choosing the Right Detergent: 

Harsh detergents are a big no for DTF prints. They can lose the adhesive layer of the print, resulting in a faded or removed print. Stick to soft detergents.

Selecting the Gentle Cycle: 

A gentle cycle on the machine eases the design and saves its delicacy. It helps maintain the prints for a longer period.

Let’s Discuss some Drying Tips

Air Drying: 

If it is possible, hang the clothes to air dry. This is the best procedure for drying the DTF printed clothes.

Low Heat Tumble Dry: 

If you have no air-drying option, go for a low-heat tumble dry. It is recommended that the cloth be removed quickly once it's dry.

Avoiding Fabric Softener: 

Suppose you are using a fabric softener, and it's affecting the longevity of your designs. After several washes, the adhesive layer is lost, resulting in distorted or removed designs.

Ironing of DTF clothes includes the following tips:

Low Heat Setting: 

Set the iron to its lowest heat. Generally, the silk setting is the lowest. High heat can damage the ink and adhesive agent.

Using a Pressing Cloth: 

Pressing clothes helps iron the DTF clothes. Directly put the cloth on the print area. It will work as a barrier and protect the print.

Applying Firm, Even Pressure: 

While ironing the print part, apply equal pressure. It is recommended that the iron be moved in a circular motion. Don't hold the iron in a single position for around 5 seconds.

Lifting and Checking: 

Keep on checking the print while ironing. If you see a little peeling or wrinkles on the design, stop immediately and let it cool down.

Cooling Down: 

Once ironing is done, it is vital to let it cool first, then use it for wearing or hanging.

It is a difficult thing to manage when maintaining your DTF prints. Following the steps mentioned above, you will see long-lasting prints. A little extra care can do wonders.

Additional Care Tips

To add additional security, you need to put extra care into it. DTF prints could be saved even longer when additional protections are provided to the designs. These care tips include:

• Store the DTF transfers carefully. After washing, if they are not going for ironing straight away, keep them in a dry place.
• Room temperature is ideal for storing the transfers.
• Don't touch the emulsion side of the film when transferring. It is a delicate part of the process. Handle it carefully from its edges.
• The adhesive powder should be used generously to make the print stuck on the fabric. Normally, the prints that don't last have this issue.
• Must apply a second press to your transfer; it makes your design last longer than your fabric.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If you want to secure your clothes with DTF prints, carefully avoid these mistakes.

• Don't mix the DTF printer clothes with other materials of a hard or soft nature.
• Don't use strong cleaners like bleach or other softeners.
• Don't use hot water for washing. The dryer should also be applied for a short time. Generously, maintain the temperature and handling.

Is There any Cloth Limitation with DTF Garments?

Although the DTF prints are durable and have no significant chance of damage when washed with proper care. There are certain types of materials that could be avoided while washing DTF clothes. The materials include:

• Rough or abrasive material (denim, heavy canvas).
• Delicate fabrics may play poorly with DTF prints.
• Wool garments due to their different behavior in hot water
• Waterproof material
• Highly Flammable Fabrics, including nylon.

Conclusion

Proper care and washing of your garment and DTF transfer can make them stand out longer. Although DTF designs are known for their durability, proper care during wash time, drying, and ironing can improve them. The designs stay vibrant and fade-resistant. You can opt for DTF printers by AGP, which provide the top printing services and amazing customization options.