Care Instructions
How to wash, dry, and store garments with DTF transfers for maximum lifespan. Plus guidance for storing unused transfer sheets.
A properly pressed DTF transfer is durable and wash-resistant. But how the garment is cared for after pressing makes a real difference to the long-term quality of the print. Share these guidelines with your customers.
Washing guidelines
Do
- Wash inside out on a cold cycle (30°C or lower)
- Use a gentle or delicate wash cycle
- Use a mild detergent (avoid heavy-duty or industrial detergents)
- Wash with similar colours
Don't
- Hot wash (40°C+) — heat degrades the adhesive bond over time
- Use bleach or chlorine-based products
- Use fabric softener directly on the print area
- Scrub or agitate the print area directly
Drying
Air dry (recommended)
Hang dry or lay flat to dry. This is the gentlest option and maximises the lifespan of the transfer. Air drying also prevents fabric shrinkage that could stress the print.
Tumble dry (if needed)
If tumble drying is unavoidable, use a low heat setting. High heat in the dryer can reactivate the adhesive and cause the print to stick to other garments. Always turn inside out.
Ironing
- Never iron directly on the transfer. The heat will damage the print, cause glossy marks, or melt the adhesive.
- If you need to iron the garment, iron inside out or place a cloth/parchment over the printed area.
- Use a low to medium heat setting.
- Avoid steam directly on the print area — moisture and heat together can weaken adhesion.
Storing printed garments
For printed garments in stock or being shipped:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid stacking heavy items directly on the print — prolonged pressure can cause transfers to stick to packaging materials.
- If folding for shipment, place a sheet of tissue paper or baking paper over the printed area to prevent sticking.
- Don't store in plastic bags in high humidity — trapped moisture can affect the print over time.
Storing unused transfer sheets
Unpress transfers have a long shelf life when stored correctly.
Transfer storage guide
Conditions
- Room temperature (15–25°C)
- Low to moderate humidity
- Away from direct sunlight and UV exposure
- Flat or gently rolled (don't crease)
Shelf life
- Properly stored: 6–12+ months
- Keep in original packaging until ready to use
- If storing loose, interleave with baking paper
- Avoid stacking too high — weight can affect adhesive
Care card for your customers
Here's a quick summary you can include with your shipped garments or use on your own care labels:
Care instructions