Heat transfer vinyl is a wonderful, cost-effective, and fun way to make custom clothing. However, the longer you have an HTV shirt, you may start to notice fading, tearing, or other signs that your unique design is wearing out much faster than the shirt. Here are some tips on how to make your vinyl shirts last longer and look better.
Turn Garments Inside Out
Whether it’s a shirt, pillowcase, or pair of comfortable gym shorts, turning a garment inside out is always a good idea before placing it in the wash. By having your HTV inside your garment, the exterior fabric acts as a layer of protection from the water. It also keeps your design from directly rubbing against other items in the wash load.
Avoid Strong Chemicals
Use mild detergent on your vinyl shirts to make sure they last for years. Many more powerful soaps are too extreme and may wind up causing your vinyl or the adhesive to fall apart. It’s also a good idea to avoid fabric softeners or bleach that can cause similar damage.
Use Cold Water
Washing your clothes in colder water is good for the environment and a way to cut down on your utility bills. Furthermore, it’s a great choice when washing shirts with heat transfer vinyl designs. Exposure to the higher heat in a hot water wash could be one of the reasons your vinyl is peeling and dramatically reduces your shirt’s lifespan.
Skip the Dryer
Another money-saving tip that works to extend the life of your vinyl shirts is to skip the dryer altogether and allow your clothes to air dry. Air drying frequently prevents wrinkles and doesn’t expose your HTV to any unnecessarily high temperatures. If you’re in too much of a hurry to air dry and must throw them into the dryer, we suggest a low-heat or a tumble-dry cycle to keep things in better condition.