Heat Press Settings for DTF Transfers (Cotton, Poly, Blends)

Getting clean, long-lasting results with DTF transfers comes down to three things: heat, pressure, and timing.

At Primal Graphx—Charlotte, NC’s #1 premium DTF provider—we press and test transfers every day. This guide will help you get consistent results whether you’re pressing one shirt at home or running production for your brand.

The 3 settings that matter most

1) Temperature

Too low and the adhesive won’t fully bond. Too high and you can scorch the garment or over-melt the adhesive.

2) Pressure

DTF generally needs firm, even pressure. Light pressure is one of the biggest reasons edges lift.

3) Time

Time works with temperature. If you reduce one, you may need to increase the other—but don’t guess. Consistency is what keeps your prints looking pro.

Recommended starting settings (use these as your baseline)

Every press is a little different, so use these as a starting point, then fine-tune.

Garment type	Starting temp	Time	Pressure	Notes
100% Cotton tees/hoodies	300–320°F	10–15 sec	Firm	Great all-around baseline
Poly / performance wear	270–300°F	10–15 sec	Firm	Lower temp helps reduce scorch marks
Cotton/Poly blends	290–315°F	10–15 sec	Firm	Most common everyday setting

Hot peel vs cold peel (don’t skip this)

Peel timing depends on the film/transfer type:

• Hot peel: peel while warm

• Cold peel: let it cool completely before peeling

If you peel too early on a cold-peel transfer, you can lift edges or pull parts of the design.

Step-by-step: the cleanest way to press DTF

1. Lint roll the press area (especially on hoodies and fleece)

2. Pre-press the garment for a few seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles

3. Place transfer print-side down and press straight down (no sliding)

4. Peel correctly (hot or cold depending on transfer)

5. Finish press with a Teflon sheet or parchment paper for a smoother, more durable finish

Quick troubleshooting (when results aren’t perfect)

If edges lift

• Increase pressure

• Make sure you’re not under-timing

• Check peel timing (cold peel needs full cool-down)

If the print looks dull

• Add a finish press

• Verify you’re hitting the right temp (some presses run hot/cold)

If you see scorch marks

• Lower temperature

• Use a protective sheet

• Consider a short pre-press and reduce dwell time

Pro tip: test your press once and save the settings

If you’re pressing the same garment brand/style often, do one test press and write down:

• Temp

• Time

• Pressure setting

• Peel type

That one habit saves a ton of wasted shirts.

Need transfers that press easy and look premium?

If you want bold color, sharp detail, and transfers that apply clean, order from Primal Graphx—Charlotte, NC’s #1 premium DTF provider.

Send your artwork and tell us what you’re pressing on. We’ll help you dial in settings so your finished product looks top-tier.