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DTF Transfer Care Instructions: Wash + Dry Guide (Make Prints Last)

by Roni Brittain

DTF Transfer Care Instructions: Wash + Dry Guide (Make Prints Last)

DTF transfers are made to hold up, but how you wash and dry your shirts matters.

At Primal Graphx - Charlotte's #1 Premium DTF Provider, we help customers in Charlotte and ship nationwide with premium transfers that are cured properly and ready to press. Use this care guide to keep prints looking fresh.

First 24 hours after pressing

Right after pressing:

  • let the shirt rest before the first wash

  • avoid heavy stretching of the print area

This helps the adhesive fully set.

Washing instructions (best practice)

Do this:

  • turn the shirt inside out

  • wash in cold or cool water

  • use a gentle cycle

  • use mild detergent

Avoid this:

  • bleach

  • harsh stain removers directly on the print

  • high heat wash cycles

Drying instructions

Best option:

  • tumble dry low

Even better:

  • hang dry when possible

Avoid:

  • high heat drying

  • over-drying for long cycles

High heat is one of the fastest ways to shorten the life of any heat-applied print.

Ironing and heat

  • do not iron directly on the print

  • if you need to iron, turn the shirt inside out or place a protective sheet over the design

Extra tips to make prints last

  • do not dry clean unless you have tested it first

  • avoid fabric softener when possible (it can affect feel and longevity over time)

  • wash with similar fabrics to reduce abrasion

Want consistent results? Pressing matters too

If you are seeing cracking or peeling, it is often a pressing issue:

  • not enough pressure

  • moisture in the garment

  • skipping the finish press

If you want help troubleshooting, message us with your shirt type and press settings.

Stock up with gang sheets

If you press often, gang sheets help you stay ready and lower cost per print.

Use either builder:

FAQ

Can I wash DTF shirts in warm water?

Cool or cold is best. Warm water can be okay sometimes, but higher heat increases wear over time.

Can I put DTF shirts in the dryer?

Yes, but use low heat. High heat is the biggest risk.

Can you help fix my artwork before printing?

Yes. Primal Graphx offers graphic designing to clean up files and make them press-ready.

Primal Graphx Team

Charlotte's #1 Premium DTF Provider

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