How to Wash Graphic Tees and Hoodies: Keep Your Designs Looking New
Your favorite tee or hoodie should look great for years, and so should the message on it. Most prints crack and fade because of hot water, high-heat dryers and irons, not because of wear. A few easy habits fix that.
Here's how to care for printed and embroidered clothing so your designs stay bold.
Washing
Flip it inside out. That keeps the print from rubbing against other clothes and the washer drum.
Use cold water. A cold cycle gets everyday clothes clean and is much gentler on prints, colors and fabric. Choose a mild detergent and skip bleach and fabric softener, which can break down inks over time.
Sort by color. Washing darks with darks and lights with lights keeps whites bright and prevents dye transfer.
Drying and ironing
Hang-dry whenever you can, on a hanger or flat on a rack, away from heaters and direct heat. If you use the dryer, pick the lowest heat or air-fluff setting and pull things out while they're still a little damp.
Never iron directly over a print. Turn the garment inside out and use a low setting, or lay a thin cloth over the design. For embroidered pieces, iron from the back so the stitching keeps its shape.
Storing
Fold heavy hoodies and sweatshirts instead of hanging them so the shoulders don't stretch, and keep clothes out of strong sunlight to prevent fading. Building your collection? Our hoodies and sweatshirts are made to be worn year after year.
FAQ
+Should I wash graphic tees in cold water?
Yes. Cold water protects prints, colors and fabric and cleans everyday wear well.
+Can I put a printed hoodie in the dryer?
Hang-drying is best. If you use a dryer, choose the lowest heat and take it out while slightly damp.
+How do I iron a shirt with a print?
Turn it inside out and use low heat, or place a cloth over the design. Never iron directly on the print.
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