Make it last.
Proper care extends the life of your decorated apparel. Here's how to keep your prints and embroidery looking sharp.
The Short Version
Turn garments inside out, wash cold, tumble dry low or hang dry. Avoid bleach and direct ironing on decoration. These simple steps add dozens of extra wash cycles to the life of your prints.
Care Instructions by Method
Screen Printing
Screen prints use plastisol ink that bonds to the fabric surface. They're highly durable and hold up well to repeated washing.
- ✓Turn garment inside out before washing
- ✓Wash in cold or warm water (avoid hot)
- ✓Tumble dry on low or medium heat
- ✓Do not iron directly on the print; iron from the inside
- ✓Avoid bleach and harsh chemical detergents
Expected durability: 50–100+ wash cycles
Embroidery
Embroidered designs use polyester thread stitched into the fabric. They last the life of the garment with minimal care.
- ✓Machine wash cold or warm (embroidery handles standard washing well)
- ✓Tumble dry on any heat setting (thread is heat-resistant)
- ✓Iron on low-medium if needed, pressing from the back side
- ✓Avoid industrial bleach on colored threads
Expected durability: Lifetime. Thread doesn't fade or crack
DTF Printing
DTF transfers use a film layer bonded to the fabric with heat and adhesive. Proper care significantly extends their life.
- ✓Turn garment inside out before every wash
- ✓Wash in cold water only
- ✓Tumble dry on low heat or hang dry
- ✓Do not iron directly on the transfer
- ✓Avoid fabric softener; it can break down the adhesive over time
Expected durability: highly durable with proper care
Durability Comparison
| Method | Wash Cycles | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Embroidery | Lifetime | Uniforms, workwear, executive apparel |
| Screen Printing | 50–100+ | Workwear, uniforms, high-wear environments |
| DTF Printing | Very durable | Corporate wear, events, standard use |