To care for screen-printed apparel, always wash inside out in cold water with a mild detergent, avoiding bleach or fabric softener. Avoid high heat when drying; do not iron directly on the print.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Washing:
- Turn inside out: This protects the screen print from rubbing against other garments in the wash. Additionally, avoid washing 24- 48 hours after the garment has been completed to ensure the bonding to the fabric is complete.
- Cold water: Hot water can damage the ink and adhesive of screen prints.
- Gentle cycle: Select a gentle cycle on your washing machine to minimize friction.
- Mild detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or sensitive skin.
- No bleach: Bleach can damage the colors of both the print and the garment.
- No fabric softener: Fabric softener can weaken the garment’s fibers and potentially damage the print.
Drying:
- Air dry: The best way to dry a screen-printed garment is to hang it up to air dry.
- Low heat: If you must use a dryer, select the low heat setting and ensure the garment is inside out.
- No ironing: Avoid ironing directly on the printed area. If necessary, turn the shirt inside out or place a cloth over the print and use a low heat setting.
Other Important Notes:
- Wait before washing: Some screen prints, like those using heat transfer vinyl, require waiting at least 24 hours after applying the print before washing to allow the adhesive to fully bond.
- Avoid dry cleaning: Dry cleaning solvents can damage the adhesives in screen prints.