Garment Care
Care Instructions
Proper care keeps your custom apparel looking great for years. Follow these guidelines to maximize the life of your garments.
Wash Cold
Inside Out
Low Heat Dry
No Bleach
Method-Specific
Care by Print Method
Different decoration methods have slightly different care requirements
DTF Printed Apparel
- Turn garment inside out
- Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
- Use mild liquid detergent
- Tumble dry on low or line dry
- Do not iron directly on the print
- Do not bleach or use fabric softener
Pro Tip: DTF prints have excellent wash durability. The first wash may have slight initial softening - this is normal.
Embroidered Apparel
- Turn garment inside out
- Machine wash warm or cold
- Gentle or permanent press cycle
- Tumble dry on low heat
- Iron on reverse side if needed
- Dry cleaning is safe for embroidery
Pro Tip: Embroidery is extremely durable. Turning inside out prevents thread snagging on other items.
Sublimation Printed
- Wash in cold water only
- Use mild detergent
- Do not use bleach or fabric softener
- Air dry recommended
- Low heat if machine drying
- Do not dry clean
Pro Tip: Sublimation dye is permanent and won't crack or peel. Cold water preserves the vibrancy of colors.
Heat Transfer / Vinyl
- Turn garment inside out
- Wash in cold water
- Gentle cycle only
- Hang dry or tumble dry on low
- Never iron directly on transfer
- Do not bleach
Pro Tip: Heat transfers are heat-sensitive. Avoid high temperatures in washing and drying to prevent peeling.
By Fabric Type
Fabric Care Guide
Care requirements vary by fabric type
| Fabric Type | Wash | Dry | Iron | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Cotton | Cold or warm | Medium heat | High heat | May shrink 3-5% on first wash if not pre-shrunk |
| Cotton/Poly Blend | Cold or warm | Low to medium | Medium heat | Minimal shrinkage, retains shape well |
| 100% Polyester | Cold water | Low heat | Low heat | No shrinkage, quick-drying |
| Tri-Blend | Cold water, gentle | Low heat or hang | Low heat | Delicate fabric, extra care needed |
| Performance/Dri-FIT | Cold water | Hang dry best | Low or none | Avoid fabric softener - it affects wicking |
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Read the care label on your garment
- Turn garments inside out before washing
- Wash similar colors together
- Use cold water when in doubt
- Remove promptly from washer
- Hang dry for best results
- Store in a cool, dry place
Don't
- Don't use bleach on printed items
- Don't iron directly on prints or embroidery
- Don't wring or twist garments
- Don't overload the washing machine
- Don't leave wet for extended periods
- Don't use high heat on synthetics
- Don't store in direct sunlight
Quick Fixes
Stain Removal Tips
Act quickly for best results
Food & Drink
Blot (don't rub) with cold water immediately. Apply mild dish soap and let sit 5 minutes before washing.
Ink & Marker
Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. Work from outside the stain inward to prevent spreading.
Grease & Oil
Apply dish soap directly to the stain. Let sit 15 minutes, then wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
Grass
Soak in cold water with enzyme-based detergent for 30 minutes before washing.
Blood
Rinse immediately with cold water (never hot). Apply hydrogen peroxide or enzyme cleaner.
Important: Always test stain removal methods on a hidden area first. Avoid using stain removers directly on printed or embroidered areas.