DTF Printed Garment Aftercare Guide
Direct to Film printed garments are designed to look sharp and last well when cared for correctly. Follow these simple aftercare steps to help protect your print, colour and garment quality.
How to care for DTF printed workwear and uniforms
DTF printing is a popular option for branded uniforms, workwear, teamwear and promotional apparel because it can create a clean, detailed and vibrant finish on suitable garments.
Like any decorated garment, the way it is washed, dried and stored can affect the life of the print. For best results, treat DTF printed garments with care, avoid harsh heat, and follow the garment label as well as the print care instructions below.
Quick DTF aftercare steps
Use these simple steps each time you wash your DTF printed clothing.
Turn inside out
Turn the garment inside out before washing to help reduce friction against the printed design.
Wash cold or gentle
Use a cold or cool wash cycle with mild detergent. Avoid hot washes and harsh chemicals.
Air dry where possible
Hang dry in the shade where possible. Avoid high heat tumble drying, especially over the print area.
Washing instructions for DTF prints
For best results, wash DTF printed garments inside out with similar colours. A cold or cool wash helps protect both the garment and the printed artwork.
Avoid strong detergents, bleach, stain removers and fabric softeners directly over the printed area, as these can affect the finish and may reduce the life of the print.
- Turn garment inside out before washing
- Wash with similar colours
- Use cold or cool water
- Use a mild detergent
- Choose a gentle or normal wash cycle
- Follow the care label on the garment
Important
Always check the garment care label as well. The garment fabric may have its own washing instructions that should be followed alongside the print aftercare guide.
Drying and ironing DTF printed garments
Heat is one of the main things that can affect printed garments over time. To help maintain the print, avoid placing direct heat onto the artwork.
Air drying is recommended where possible. If you need to use a dryer, use a low heat setting only and remove the garment promptly.
- Air dry in the shade where possible
- Avoid high heat tumble drying
- Do not iron directly over the print
- If ironing is needed, turn inside out first
- Keep steam and direct heat away from the printed area
Ironing tip
Never press a hot iron directly onto the printed design. If ironing is required, turn the garment inside out and avoid the printed area as much as possible.
DTF print care: do and don’t
A few small habits can help your printed garments stay looking better for longer.
Do
- Turn garments inside out before washing
- Wash in cold or cool water
- Use mild detergent
- Air dry when possible
- Store garments flat or hung neatly
Don’t
- Do not bleach the garment
- Do not dry clean
- Do not use harsh stain removers on the print
- Do not tumble dry on high heat
- Do not iron directly over the print
Extra care for workwear and uniforms
Workwear and uniforms often go through tougher use than everyday clothing. Dirt, sweat, sunscreen, oils, chemicals and repeated washing can all affect both fabric and decoration over time.
If your garment has heavy soiling, avoid aggressive scrubbing directly on the print. Treat the garment carefully and wash as soon as practical, following both the garment label and DTF aftercare steps.
DTF Aftercare FAQs
Can I put DTF printed garments in the dryer?
Air drying is recommended where possible. If you use a dryer, choose a low heat setting and avoid high heat, as excessive heat can affect the print over time.
Can I iron over a DTF print?
No. Do not iron directly over the printed design. If ironing is required, turn the garment inside out and avoid applying direct heat to the printed area.
Should I wash DTF printed garments inside out?
Yes. Turning the garment inside out helps reduce friction on the print during washing and can help protect the design.
Can I use bleach or strong stain removers?
Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals and strong stain removers, especially on or near the print area. These can damage the garment and affect the print finish.
Will DTF prints last on workwear?
DTF prints can last well when applied to suitable garments and cared for correctly. Following the washing, drying and ironing instructions will help maintain the print for longer.
Need help with branded uniforms or DTF printing?
Contact Workwear Express in East Gosford for help with custom workwear, branded uniforms, DTF printing, embroidery, screen printing and logo setup.