Sublimation shirts are popular for their vibrant colors and designs that don’t fade even after multiple washes. However, they require a special type of care to preserve their colors and quality. In this article, you will learn about the best practices to wash sublimation shirts to ensure they remain looking great.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is a process that involves printing a design onto sublimation paper with sublimation ink, then transferring the design onto the fabric using heat and pressure. It’s a popular printing method in the textile industry because it produces detailed and vibrant designs that won’t crack, peel, or fade easily.
Prepare the Shirt
Before washing, it’s essential to check the care label and see if there are any special instructions for washing. Turn the shirt inside out to protect the design and avoid any damage.
Sort Your Laundry
Separate your sublimation shirts from other laundry to avoid color bleeding. Wash them in a load of similar colors only.
Choose the Right Temperature and Detergent
Since high temperatures can damage the print design, wash sublimation shirts in cold water only. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softeners. These can cause the colors to fade or look dull.
Wash the Shirt
Place the shirt in the washing machine, making sure there is enough water to cover it entirely. Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle and a short wash time to minimize the time spent in the washing machine.
Rinse the Shirt
After the wash cycle, rinse the shirt in cold water to remove all traces of detergent. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving detergent residues that can cause skin irritation.
Drying the Shirt
Do not tumble dry sublimation shirts since the high heat can fade the colors and damage the fabric. Instead, hang the shirt to air dry in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. You can also lay the shirt flat to avoid stretching or misshaping the shirt.
Storage
Before storing sublimation shirts, make sure they are fully dry. Store them away from excessive heat or moisture to avoid damage.
How Often Should You Wash Your Sublimation Shirt?
Wash sublimation shirts only when necessary to lengthen their lifespan. Avoid washing them after each use to prevent fading and wear and tear.
Maintenance Tips for Sublimation Shirts
Always wash sublimation shirts on the gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent. Avoid ironing or dry-cleaning sublimation shirts.
My Sublimation Shirt Faded, What Should I Do?
If the sublimation shirt has started to fade, try washing it in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener as they can cause more damage.
Can I Hand Wash My Sublimation Shirt?
Yes, you can hand wash sublimation shirts using cold water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
Can I Wash My Sublimation Shirt with Other Clothes?
To ensure the longevity of the sublimation shirt, wash it with similar colors only.
Can I Iron My Sublimation Shirt?
It’s best to avoid ironing sublimation shirts as the high heat can damage the print design.
Conclusion
Sublimation shirts are fantastic creations with vibrant colors and custom designs that are coveted by many. Proper care and washing can help preserve the design’s integrity and prolong the life of the garment. Washing guidelines for sublimation shirts are relatively simple to follow. Still, it is crucial always to check for instructions in the care label and avoid high heat and harsh chemicals such as bleach and fabric softeners.
FAQs
1. What is sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing is a textile industry technique that involves printing a design onto sublimation paper with sublimation ink, then transferring the design onto the textile using heat and pressure.
2. How often should you wash sublimation shirts?
Wash sublimation shirts only when necessary to lengthen their lifespan. Avoid washing them after each use to prevent fading and wear and tear.
3. Can I iron my sublimation shirt?
It’s best to avoid ironing sublimation shirts as the high heat can damage the print design.
4. Can I wash my sublimation shirt with other clothes?
To ensure the longevity of the sublimation shirt, wash it with similar colors only.
5. My sublimation shirt faded, what should I do?
If the sublimation shirt has started to fade, try washing it in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener as they can cause more damage.
