Tips to Wash and Dry Screen Printed T-Shirts

Screen-printed t-shirts are a popular wardrobe staple, offering everything from bold graphics and logos to unique designs and custom prints. Whether it’s a favorite band tee, a limited-edition design, or a personalized shirt, taking proper care of your screen-printed t-shirts can keep them looking vibrant and fresh for years to come. Improper washing and drying can cause fading, cracking, or peeling of the print, which can ruin the look of your shirt.

To preserve the quality and longevity of your screen-printed garments, it’s essential to follow some key care instructions. Here are 10 tips on how to wash and dry your screen-printed t-shirts to keep them looking as good as new.

1. Turn T-Shirts Inside Out Before Washing

From https://tidydiary.com/is-it-better-to-wash-clothes-inside-out/

Turning your t-shirts inside out before washing helps protect the printed design from direct friction and agitation during the wash cycle, which can cause fading or cracking.

2. Use Cold Water

Always wash screen-printed t-shirts in cold water. Hot water can cause the print to crack, fade, or peel over time. Cold water helps preserve both the fabric and the print, keeping colors vibrant.

3. Choose a Gentle Cycle

From https://tru.earth/blogs/tru-living/permanent-press-vs-gentle-cycle

Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize friction and agitation, which can damage the screen print. The less movement, the less wear and tear on both the print and the fabric.

4. Avoid Harsh Detergents

From https://enviroklenz.com/allergic-reactions-to-laundry-detergent/

Use mild detergents that are free from bleach, enzymes, or other harsh chemicals. These substances can deteriorate the print and cause it to fade or crack prematurely.

5. Do Not Overload the Washing Machine

Overloading the washing machine can increase friction between garments, leading to more wear on the print. Wash screen-printed t-shirts with similar fabrics and colors to reduce this risk.

6. Avoid Fabric Softeners

From https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/is-fabric-softener-necessary-263300

Fabric softeners can weaken the adhesive bond of the screen print, causing it to peel over time. Instead, use a natural alternative like white vinegar, which can soften clothes without affecting the print.

7. Examine the Stem

If the watermelon still has its stem attached, check for a dry and brownish stem, which suggests the fruit has ripened on the vine. A green stem may indicate it was picked too early.

8. Hang or Lay Flat to Dry

From https://tallpaul.ca/what-does-dry-flat-mean/

To prolong the life of the screen print, avoid using a tumble dryer. The heat and agitation can cause prints to crack and shrink. Instead, hang your t-shirts or lay them flat to air dry in a shaded area.