Sublimation shirts have gained popularity for their vibrant, long-lasting designs and comfortable wear. Whether you’re an experienced user of sublimation shirts or are just getting started, it’s critical to understand how to preserve the quality and brilliant colors of these distinctive clothes. In this manual, we’ll show you how to properly wash sublimation shirts so they remain looking great for years to come.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Before diving into the washing process, let’s briefly understand how sublimation shirts are created. Sublimation is a printing process in which ink is transformed into a gas and then fused into the fabric’s fibers. This allows for stunning, full-color designs that won’t crack, peel, or fade, unlike traditional screen printing or heat transfers.
Tips for Washing Sublimation Shirts
Separate Light and Dark Colors
Before starting any laundry, it’s essential to separate your sublimation shirts based on their color. Wash light-colored sublimation shirts separately from dark-colored ones to prevent color bleeding.
Turn Shirts Inside Out
To protect the vibrant designs on the front of your sublimation shirts, turn them inside out before washing. This minimizes the risk of friction and fading during the wash cycle.
Use Cold Water
When washing sublimation shirts, always use cold water. High temperatures can damage the sublimated designs and cause fading. Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation.
Mild Detergent
Choose a mild, color-safe detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can break down the sublimation ink and compromise the shirt’s colors. Follow the detergent’s instructions for the correct amount to use.
Avoid Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners can create a film on the shirt’s surface, which may dull the vibrant colors. It’s best to skip fabric softeners when washing sublimation shirts.
Wash Similar Fabrics
To further prevent friction and potential damage to your sublimation shirts, wash them with other similar fabrics. Avoid washing them with rough fabrics like denim, zippers, or anything with Velcro that could snag the delicate designs.
Gentle Cycle
Choose a gentle or delicate cycle to ensure minimal stress on the sublimation designs. Reduce the spin speed, as high speeds can cause excessive stretching or wrinkling.
Dry with Care
When it comes to drying sublimation shirts, the best method is air drying. Hanging your shirts on a clothesline or a hanger is the gentlest way to prevent heat damage. If you must use a dryer, use a low-heat setting, and make sure the shirts are still inside out. Avoid over-drying to prevent shrinkage.
Ironing
If your sublimation shirt becomes wrinkled, you can iron it, but always do so inside out. Set your iron to a low or synthetic setting and use a cloth as a barrier between the iron and the shirt to avoid direct contact. Be very gentle while ironing to prevent any damage.
Store Properly
After cleaning and drying your sublimation shirts, store them away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry location. Don’t hang them where they could be subjected to high humidity or temperatures.
Final Verdict
Properly washing and caring for your sublimation shirts will ensure they stay vibrant and last for a long time. By following these guidelines, you can maintain the integrity of the sublimated designs and enjoy your shirts’ stunning colors and quality. Remember to handle them with care, and they’ll continue to look great, no matter how often you wear them.
