How to Care for DTG Printed Shirts to Make Them Last Longer

June 27, 2025 5 min read

Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing has revolutionized the custom apparel industry, allowing for high-quality, vibrant, and detailed designs on fabric. Unlike traditional printing methods, DTG prints have a softer feel and allow for intricate, full-color graphics. However, to maintain the quality and longevity of these prints, proper care is essential. Without adequate care, DTG prints can fade, crack, or deteriorate faster than expected. In this guide, we will cover the best practices for washing, drying, ironing, and storing DTG printed shirts to help them last longer.

Understanding DTG Printing

DTG printing is a digital process where specialized inkjet printers apply water-based inks directly to fabric. This technique allows for a seamless, detailed print with a high level of color accuracy and a soft texture. Unlike screen printing, which uses layers of ink on top of fabric, DTG printing infuses the ink into the material, creating a more breathable and comfortable design.

However, because DTG prints use water-based inks, they require special care to prevent premature fading or damage. Some common issues that arise from improper care include:

Fading: Exposure to harsh detergents, high temperatures, and excessive washing can cause colors to fade.
Cracking or Peeling: Friction during washing and drying can lead to print deterioration.
Fabric Wear and Tear: Repeated exposure to harsh washing cycles or incorrect drying methods can weaken the fabric, making the print look old and worn.

By following proper DTG print care instructions, you can significantly extend the life of your custom shirts.

Comprehensive Care Instructions

Washing

Washing is the most critical factor in preserving the vibrancy and durability of DTG printed shirts. Here’s how to do it right:

Turn Shirts Inside Out: Before tossing your DTG printed shirt into the washing machine, turn it inside out. This prevents direct friction between the print and the washing drum, reducing the likelihood of cracking or peeling.
Use Cold Water: Washing DTG printed apparel in cold water helps preserve the ink’s integrity. Hot water can break down the ink and fabric fibers, leading to premature fading.
Choose a Gentle Cycle: Opt for a delicate or gentle cycle to minimize agitation. Strong spin cycles can cause unnecessary stress on the fabric and print.
Use Mild Detergent: Harsh detergents with bleach, brighteners, or fabric softeners can degrade the ink and shorten the lifespan of your DTG print. Stick to mild, eco-friendly detergents designed for delicate fabrics.
Avoid Overloading the Machine: Washing DTG shirts with heavy fabrics like denim or towels can create excessive friction. Wash them separately or with other lightweight garments to maintain print quality.

Drying

Proper drying techniques are essential to preventing shrinkage and preserving DTG prints.

Air Drying is Best: The safest method for drying DTG printed shirts is air drying. Lay the shirt flat on a drying rack or hang it indoors in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged UV exposure can fade prints over time.
If Using a Dryer, Use Low Heat: If air drying is not an option, tumble dry your DTG printed shirts on the lowest heat setting. High heat can cause prints to crack and shrink the fabric.
Remove Shirts While Slightly Damp: To further reduce heat exposure, remove shirts from the dryer while they are slightly damp and allow them to finish drying naturally.

Ironing

Ironing a DTG printed shirt incorrectly can damage the design. Follow these safe ironing practices:

Turn the Shirt Inside Out: Never apply direct heat to the print. Instead, turn the shirt inside out before ironing.
Use a Low Heat Setting: High heat can melt or crack the ink, so use the lowest possible setting.
Use a Protective Cloth: Place a clean cotton cloth or parchment paper over the printed area before ironing to prevent direct heat contact.
Consider Steaming Instead: A garment steamer is a gentler alternative to remove wrinkles without direct heat.

Stain Removal

Accidents happen, and stains are inevitable. However, treating stains the right way can prevent damage to your DTG print.

Blot, Don’t Rub: When dealing with a stain, gently blot the affected area with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the print.
Use Mild Stain Removers: Opt for a gentle stain remover that is bleach-free and free of harsh chemicals. Test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the stain with cold water before washing as usual, following the care instructions mentioned above.

Advanced Tips for Longevity

Store Shirts Properly: Fold DTG printed shirts neatly instead of hanging them, as hangers can stretch the fabric over time. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup that can weaken the ink.
Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners leave behind a residue that can interfere with the ink, causing the print to deteriorate faster.
Wash Less Frequently: Unless the shirt is visibly dirty, avoid excessive washing. The fewer washes, the longer the print will last.

Caring for DTG printed shirts requires attention to washing, drying, and storage methods to preserve their print quality and fabric integrity. By following these best practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your custom-printed apparel. Whether for personal use or bulk orders, maintaining print quality ensures you get the most out of your DTG printed shirts.

For high-quality custom printing that lasts, Custom One Online offers premium DTG printing services, ensuring your designs remain vibrant and durable for years to come.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent DTG prints from fading?

To prevent fading, always wash in cold water, use mild detergents, and air dry whenever possible.

2. Can I dry clean DTG printed shirts?

Dry cleaning is not recommended, as the chemicals used can weaken the ink and fabric over time.

3. Why does my DTG shirt have a residue after washing?

Some detergents leave a residue that can affect print quality. Using a mild detergent and rinsing thoroughly should help prevent this.

4. How often should I wash DTG printed shirts?

Wash only when necessary to minimize wear and tear. Spot cleaning minor stains can help extend time between washes.

5. Can I use a steamer on DTG prints?

Yes, steaming is a safer option than ironing directly on the print, as it helps remove wrinkles without applying direct heat. For long-lasting, high-quality DTG prints, consider Custom One Online’s expert printing services, which ensure durability and vibrant color retention.