HOW TO WASH AND CARE FOR SCREEN PRINTED SHIRTS TO PREVENT CRACKING AND FADING

Introduction

Screen printed shirts are a popular choice for custom apparel due to their vibrant colors and durability. However, improper washing and care can cause the print to crack, fade, or peel after just a few washes. At Underground Printing, we want to help you keep your custom screen printed shirts looking fresh and professional for as long as possible. This guide outlines best practices for washing, drying, and caring for screen printed garments.

Understanding Screen Printing and Its Vulnerabilities

Screen printing involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil to create a design on fabric. The most common inks are plastisol and water-based. While plastisol inks are durable, they still require proper handling to maintain the print's integrity. Water-based inks soak more into the fabric but can be more delicate during washing.

Knowing the type of ink and fabric helps tailor the care instructions. For example, printed soft t-shirts may need gentler treatment than performance moisture-wicking shirts.

Pre-Wash Tips for Your Screen Printed Shirts

• Read the care label: Always start by checking the manufacturer's care instructions on the garment.
• Turn shirts inside out: This reduces abrasion to the print during washing.
• Use cold water: Hot water weakens ink adhesion and can cause fading or cracking.
• Wash similar colors together: Avoid color bleeding and preserve the shirt’s vibrancy.

Washing Your Screen Printed Shirts

Here are some detailed recommendations for washing your screen printed custom t-shirts and other apparel:

• Choose a gentle cycle: Use delicate or gentle cycles to reduce friction on the print.
• Use mild detergent: Harsh chemicals and bleach can break down inks and fabrics.
• Avoid fabric softeners: These can leave residue that weakens screen printing inks.
• Limit the number of washes: The less frequently your shirt is washed, the longer your print lasts.

Drying Your Screen Printed Shirts Properly

Drying is a critical stage for preserving print quality:

• Air dry when possible: Hang dry shirts or lay flat to dry to minimize heat exposure.
• If using a dryer: Choose the lowest heat or tumble dry setting to reduce ink cracking.
• Remove promptly: Take shirts out of the dryer immediately to reduce wrinkles and fabric stress.

Additional Tips to Extend the Life of Your Custom Apparel

• Iron inside out: Avoid ironing directly on the print. Use a cloth over the print if ironing is necessary.
• Store properly: Fold shirts neatly or hang them in a cool, dry place to prevent print damage.
• Spot clean stains: Instead of frequent washes, try spot cleaning to protect the print.
• Choose durable fabrics: When ordering, consider options such as dri-fit t-shirts that hold up well over time.

Common Myths About Caring for Screen Printed Shirts

• Myth: Hot water cleans better and won’t harm prints.
  Fact: Hot water can cause inks to fade and crack; cold water is safer.
• Myth: Dryer heat sets the print.
  Fact: Excessive heat damages prints; only gentle drying is recommended.
• Myth: Using fabric softeners makes shirts softer but doesn’t affect prints.
  Fact: Fabric softeners can degrade screen printing inks over time.

FAQ Section

Can I bleach my screen printed shirt?

It's best to avoid bleach, as it can deteriorate both the fabric and the print.

How long will my screen printed shirt last?

With proper care following these guidelines, your shirt’s print can last for many washes without significant cracking or fading.

Is it better to hand wash or machine wash?

Hand washing is gentler and better for delicate prints, but a gentle machine wash cycle with cold water is also acceptable.

Does drying inside out help print longevity?

Yes, turning the shirt inside out during both washing and drying helps reduce direct abrasion and UV exposure on the print.

Ready to Preserve Your Custom Screen Printed Apparel?

Whether you've ordered custom t-shirts, sweatshirts, or other screen printed items from Underground Printing, following these care tips will keep your designs looking vibrant wash after wash. For more information and to explore our extensive product collections, visit our website or contact us anytime. Let us help you make custom apparel that lasts!