Your DTF (Direct-to-Film) prints represent an investment in quality custom apparel. With proper care, these vibrant, durable transfers can maintain their appearance and integrity for years. As Canada's largest DTF printer, we've compiled the essential care instructions to maximize your print lifespan.
💡 Quick Reference Guide
✅ DO:
- • Turn inside out before washing
- • Use cold water (30°C/86°F max)
- • Gentle or delicate cycle
- • Air dry when possible
- • Iron on reverse side only
❌ DON'T:
- • Use hot water or high heat
- • Use bleach or fabric softener
- • Wring or twist wet prints
- • Iron directly on print
- • Dry clean
Washing Your DTF Prints
Important: Wait at least 24 hours after DTF application before the first wash. This allows the adhesive to fully cure.
Step-by-Step Washing
- Turn inside out - Always flip garments to protect the print surface
- Use cold water - Maximum 30°C (86°F) to prevent adhesive damage
- Select gentle cycle - Reduces agitation and friction
- Use mild detergent - Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals
- Wash similar colors - Separate darks and lights for first few washes
Drying Your DTF Prints
Best Practice: Air Drying
- Hang or lay flat to dry
- Keep out of direct sunlight
- Ensure good air circulation
- Don't wring or twist wet garments
Machine Drying (If Necessary)
- Use lowest heat setting
- Remove while slightly damp
- Keep garments inside out
- Use dryer balls to reduce static
Ironing and Heat Pressing
Never iron directly on DTF prints! This can melt or damage the transfer.
Safe Ironing Method
- Turn garment inside out
- Set iron to low-medium heat
- Iron on the reverse side only
- Use a pressing cloth if needed
- Avoid steam settings
Storage and Long-Term Care
- Fold carefully - Avoid creasing across the print
- Use hangers - When possible, hang DTF-printed garments
- Avoid tight packing - Give garments room to breathe
- Cool, dry place - Store away from heat and humidity
- Regular rotation - Don't let items sit folded for months
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Print Cracking
Usually caused by: High heat, aggressive washing, or print age. Prevention: Follow care instructions strictly.
Color Fading
Usually caused by: Hot water, bleach, or direct sunlight. Prevention: Cold wash, mild detergent, air dry in shade.
Peeling Edges
Usually caused by: Inadequate initial cure time or aggressive handling. Prevention: 24-hour cure, gentle wash.
Print Stiffness
Usually caused by: Fabric softener or overdrying. Prevention: Skip fabric softener, air dry when possible.
Expected Lifespan
With proper care, DTF prints can last:
- 50+ washes - With excellent care and cold water washing
- 30-50 washes - With good care and occasional warm water
- 20-30 washes - With basic care and standard washing
Actual lifespan depends on fabric type, design complexity, usage frequency, and care adherence.