Are your DTF prints fading? Do you often find that your prints peel or crack after 2-3 washes? If so, there are only two possible causes: one, you chose an unreliable DTF supplier for your prints, who used low-quality inks and adhesive powder, and two, you did not take proper care of your prints after application. Most novice DTf enthusiasts wash the garment immediately, which can lead to faded prints, even if the prints are of the highest quality.
One of the most priceless actions you, as a print shop owner or designer, may take is to teach your clients how to care for their DTF-printed garments. These DTF wash care tips and guidelines support the long-term preservation of the look, color, and quality of DTF prints while helping to avoid common DTF print quality issues.
DTF Prints Fading, Peeling, and Cracking: Causes
Before we get into the advice, let's first consider why DTF prints peel or fade. DTF prints are composed of hot melt adhesive powder heat-transferred onto cloth and water-based ink. Once applied, these prints are quite resistant but still open to:
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Too much heat.
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Strong cleaners or bleach.
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Mechanical stress from agitation and drying.
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Frequent UV exposure and chemicals.
Even the finest print will degrade over time if not properly treated. With the right instructions and DTF maintenance guide, you may greatly decelerate that process and prevent DTF print fading.
1. Turn Clothing Inside Out
DTF-printed custom clothing, including shirts and accessories, must be turned inside out before washing. Failing to do so can lead to permanent damage to your prints. Turning the clothes inside out lowers:
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Surface friction
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Wear of ink
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Edging that is breaking or peeling
Pro tip: This rule applies to both washing and drying. To minimize DTF transfer durability loss, always turn images inward.
2. Employ Only Cold or Lukewarm Water
DTF prints' worst foe is heat. Early degradation can result from high water temperatures, which soften the adhesive and compromise the ink bond. Always suggest clients:
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Wash either cold (30°C/86°F) or tepid (up to 40°C/104°F).
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Totally avoid hot water cycles.
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Select either the "delicate" or "gentle" wash option.
How to prevent DTF fading: Always use lukewarm water.
3. Keep Away from Harsh Bleach and Detergents
Many commercial cleaning products include optical brighteners, enzymes, or bleach additions that may:
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Color fade in printed areas.
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Disassemble the printing surface.
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Take the ink off the fabric over time.
Encourage clients to use a mild, color-safe detergent without bleach or harsh chemicals. This helps eliminate common causes of DTF print quality issues.
4. Low-Heat Settings or Hang Drying Can Be Helpful
Most print deterioration happens in the dryer. High heat can:
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Melt or soften the adhesive.
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Cause ink to rupture or bubble.
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Shrink the fabric and distort the design.
For better DTF transfer durability, advise customers to:
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Hang dry in a shaded, ventilated area.
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Use the lowest heat or air-dry setting if using a dryer.
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Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
These steps align with the best way to wash DTF shirts for long-term use.
5. Avoid Ironing Right on the Print
If ironing is required, ensure customers do it correctly. Direct heat from an iron might melt the print or damage the adhesive. Instead:
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Turn the garment inside out.
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Use parchment paper or a pressing cloth over the design.
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Use only low-heat or ideal temperature.
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Avoid steaming over the image.
This protects cured designs and prevents unnecessary wear, especially if prints were not given proper DTF print curing time.
6. Wash Similar Fabrics Separately
During washing, rough items like jeans or Velcro can damage DTF prints. Recommend that clients:
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Separate laundry loads by fabric texture.
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Wash DTF prints with lightweight materials only.
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Avoid combining printed shirts with heavy items.
This reduces mechanical stress and avoids common DTF printing mistakes.
7. When Possible, Restrict Wash Frequency
Even under perfect conditions, frequent washing can shorten print life. Suggest:
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Airing or spot-cleaning lightly worn garments.
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Saving machine washes for heavily soiled items.
How long do DTF prints last? For a very long time if washed correctly.
Common Errors Leading to Early Fading
Customers can still ruin prints if they:
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Use fabric softeners (affects the bond)
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Dry clean DTF prints
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Leave damp clothes in the washer for too long
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Wash immediately after pressing without proper cure time
Proper curing is critical. Knowing how to fix faded DTF prints starts with knowing what caused the damage.
Why Choose Picasso DTF for High-quality Prints
Choose Picasso DTF for your resilient print requirements, as we provide fine detail, vibrant colors, and long-lasting, excellent prints. Even after multiple washes, our sophisticated direct-to-film technology ensures excellent adhesion and longevity.
Strong devotion to consistency and rapid turnaround times make Picasso DTF a trusted partner for companies looking for reliability and professional results. Customizable solutions tailored to your unique printing needs, excellent customer care, and competitive pricing are just a few of the many benefits of working with us.
Final Thought
Although DTF printing provides high-quality, brilliant results, poor aftercare can even outweigh the benefits of the best equipment. Following these seven basic washing and maintenance guidelines helps prevent DTF prints from fading.
Offering this education as a print seller or designer builds trust, lowers complaints, and turns every client into a returning buyer. It’s not just about preserving garments; it's about maintaining brand reputation. Mastering how to prevent DTF fading ensures every print lives up to its full potential.
Ready to design custom apparel with lasting durability? Check out our Gang Sheet Builder for your project. Batch multiple prints together to save space and economize.