How to Care for Custom Clothing with DTG Printing
Direct to Garment (DTG) printing has revolutionised the custom clothing industry with its ability to create detailed and colourful designs. However, when you invest in custom clothing, you want to maximise its durability, and to maintain the quality and longevity of DTG-printed garments, it’s essential to follow specific care guidelines. In this blog, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to care for your DTG-printed clothing so it looks as good as new for much longer.
Tips for Caring for Custom DTG Printed Clothing
1. Washing
Washing is one of the most critical stages in maintaining the quality of DTG-printed clothing. Here are some recommendations:
- Wash Inside Out: Always turn the garment inside out before washing. This helps protect the printed design from friction and wear during the washing cycle.
- Use Cold Water: Wash the garment in cold water to prevent the colours from fading. Hot water can cause the ink to loosen from the fabric.
- Use Mild Detergent: Opt for mild detergents and avoid those containing bleach or harsh chemicals that could damage the design.
- Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can affect the quality of the print, so it's best to avoid them.
2. Drying
Drying is another important aspect of caring for DTG-printed clothing. Follow these tips to dry your clothing properly:
- Air Dry: The best way to dry DTG-printed garments is to air dry them. Hanging the clothing in a shaded, well-ventilated area helps prevent shrinkage and colour deterioration.
- Avoid Tumble Drying: While it may be tempting to use a tumble dryer for convenience, the heat can damage the DTG print. If you need to use a dryer, ensure you use a low-temperature cycle.
- Do Not Wring: Twisting or wringing the garment can cause wrinkles and damage the printed design.
3. Ironing
Ironing DTG-printed clothing can be tricky but not impossible. Here are some tips for safe ironing:
- Iron Inside Out: Always iron the garment inside out to avoid direct contact between the hot iron and the design.
- Use a Protective Cloth: Place a thin cloth, such as a cotton cloth, over the printed area before ironing. This adds an extra layer of protection.
- Low Temperature: Use the lowest possible temperature on your iron to avoid damaging the ink.
4. Storage
Proper storage of custom clothing also plays a significant role in preserving DTG designs. Follow these recommendations:
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the clothing in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture, which can cause mould and damage the print.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the colours. Store the garments in a wardrobe or a closed drawer.
- Fold Properly: Fold the clothing carefully to avoid deep creases that could affect the appearance of the design.
5. Special Care
Certain situations require special care to keep your DTG-printed clothing in perfect condition:
- Stains: If you need to remove a stain, do so carefully. Use a soft cloth and cold water, and avoid rubbing directly on the design.
- Sportswear: If your custom garment is sportswear, wash it immediately after use to prevent sweat from damaging the print.
- Frequent Use: If you wear the garment frequently, wash it after each use to keep it fresh and prevent accumulated wear.
Start Printing Your T-Shirts with Us
Taking care of DTG-printed clothing requires attention and diligence, but by following these tips, you can ensure that your garments look as good as new for a long time.
At Garment Printing, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality prints and are committed to helping you keep your garments in perfect condition. Follow this guide and enjoy your DTG-printed custom clothing for many years.