Graphic tees are wardrobe staples — but prints can crack, peel, or fade quickly if washed incorrectly. Whether it’s DTG, screen print, vinyl, or puff print, here’s how to protect the artwork and keep your tees looking new.
1. Turn the Shirt Inside Out
This protects the print from friction inside the washing machine.
2. Always Wash in Cold Water
Heat breaks down print adhesives and causes peeling.
3. Use Gentle Detergent
- No bleach
- No fabric softener
- No harsh chemicals
Color-safe detergent works best.
4. Choose Gentle Cycle
Reduces movement and friction that damage prints.
5. Never Use High-Heat Drying
The dryer is the enemy of graphic tees. High heat → cracking & shrinking.
- Air-dry or hang-dry only
- If necessary: tumble dry low
6. How to Iron Graphic Tees
Never iron directly on the print.
- Turn inside out
- Use a cotton cloth over the print
- Use low heat only
7. Store Correctly
Prints can stick together in heat.
- Fold instead of hanging
- Keep in cool, dry storage
8. Why Prints Fade
- Hot water washing
- Harsh detergents
- Overdrying
- Excess friction
Explore more:
– How to Stop Clothes From Fading
– How to Fix Cracked T-Shirt Prints
Final Tip: Cold water + gentle cycle + low heat = perfect print longevity.
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