Proper care of DTF printed clothing
Proper care for DTF printed garments
Proper washing and care of Direct-to-Film (DTF) prints preserves the depth of colors, flexibility, and crack resistance of the graphic for over 50 wash cycles. The following tips protect the polyurethane adhesive (TPU) bond and eliminate the risk of mechanical damage.
| Parameter | Recommended setting | What to absolutely avoid |
|---|---|---|
| First wash | Wait 24–48 hours | Washing immediately after application |
| Water temperature | Max 30°C | Water 40°C and above |
| Garment side | Inside out | Washing right side out |
| Detergent | Mild liquid / gel for colors | Abrasive powders, capsules |
| Fabric softener | Strictly prohibited | Fabric softeners |
| Bleaches and stain removers | No aggressive chemicals | Chlorine, Oxi stain removers |
| Spin cycle | 600 – 800 rpm | Above 1000 rpm |
| Drying | Naturally (hanger / flat) | Tumble dryers, radiator |
| Ironing | Inside out (max 110°C) | Directly over the print |
Wait 24–48 hours before the first wash
After application with a heat press, the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) adhesive needs a full day to chemically bond with the knit fabric fibers. Premature contact with water weakens the adhesive bond.
Always turn the garment inside out
Turning the garment inside out before putting it into the washing machine eliminates direct friction of the graphic against the drum, metal zippers, and buttons of other clothes.
Choose a gentle cycle and temperature up to 30°C
High temperatures (40°C and above) plasticize the transfer adhesive and weaken its adhesion. We recommend programs such as: Delicate, Synthetics, or Hand wash with a spin cycle up to 800 rpm.
Do not use fabric softeners or bleaches
Fabric softeners deposit a silicone layer on the fibers, which breaks down adhesive bonds. Bleaches and chlorine-based stain removers destroy pigments and cause graphic fading.
Dry naturally and iron only on the reverse side
Drying: Hang clothes on a hanger in the shade. Hot air in an automatic dryer damages the print structure.
Ironing: Iron only on the reverse side at a temperature up to 110°C (1 dot) or using parchment paper.
Can DTF prints be tumble dried?
No. High temperature and intense mechanical friction in a tumble dryer shrink the transfer film, cause the ink to crack, and peel off the edges of the graphic.
Why should I not use fabric softener with DTF prints?
Fabric softeners contain emollients and silicones that penetrate under the micro-edges of the print and weaken the adhesion of the hot-melt adhesive to cotton.
Can DTF prints be ironed?
Direct contact of a hot iron with the print will melt the polyurethane coating. Ironing is only allowed on the reverse side of the material or through parchment paper at a low temperature (max. 110°C).