Printed shirts are a staple for footy teams, cricket matches, and casual weekend games across Australia. But if you’re not careful, even the best prints can fade, crack, or peel faster than you’d like. That’s why knowing how to wash printed shirts properly is key, not just for looks, but for getting the most out of your custom gear.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple do’s and don’ts for caring for your printed shirts.
The Do’s: Smart Washing for Long-Lasting Prints
Want to keep your printed shirts looking as fresh as the day you got them? Follow these do’s on how to wash printed clothes:
Turn Shirts Inside Out
Flipping your shirts inside out before popping them in the wash helps protect the print from direct friction and rubbing against other clothes. This simple trick keeps your prints vibrant and reduces wear and tear.
Use Cold Water
A cold water wash for prints is your best bet. Cold water helps the ink stay intact and prevents colours from fading. Plus, it’s better for the environment and your power bill, a win-win for every Aussie household.
Choose Gentle Cycles
Printed T-shirts don’t love the rough and tumble of heavy wash cycles. Go for a gentle or delicate setting to prevent cracking and peeling, especially for sportswear and team shirts that need to stand up to weekly washes.
Use Mild, Eco-Friendly Detergents
Harsh chemicals can damage prints and irritate skin. Use a mild detergent that’s designed to be gentle on your shirts and on Aussie waterways. It’s an easy switch for a more eco-friendly laundry routine.
Air Dry in the Shade
Instead of blasting your shirts in the dryer, let them air dry in the shade. Direct sun can fade prints, and heat can cause shrinkage, so shady spots are the perfect drying choice for printed gear.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Custom Shirts
Avoid these common laundry mistakes that can wreck your favourite printed shirts, and remember, how to wash printed shirts properly matters more than you might think:
Hot Water Washing
Hot water is great for some clothes, but it’s the enemy of printed shirts. It can break down ink bonds and weaken synthetic fibres, leading to cracked or faded prints.
Harsh Chemicals & Bleach
Steer clear of harsh stain removers or bleach. These can strip away the vibrant colours and damage the delicate ink on your shirts, leaving them looking dull and patchy.
Overloading the Machine
Stuffing too many shirts into the machine creates extra friction, which can lead to prints fading faster. Give your shirts room to move freely for a better, safer clean.
High Heat Drying or Ironing Directly
High heat can crack and peel prints. If you’re using a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting, or better yet, stick to air drying. When ironing, avoid direct heat on the print, always use a cloth barrier or iron inside out.
Why Quality Custom Clothing Matters
If you’re washing your printed shirts week in, week out, you’ll know not all prints are created equal. Here’s why investing in quality custom clothing makes all the difference:
Cheap Prints Don’t Last
No matter how carefully you wash, low-quality prints will eventually fade or crack. Cheaper inks and fabrics just can’t stand up to repeated washing and wear.
Durable Inks & Fabrics = Less Stress
With quality custom shirts with prints, like those from Team Spirit Sports, you’re getting gear that’s made to last. Durable inks and tested fabrics mean you can wash and wear with confidence, no more worrying about your footy jersey fading after a few games.
Smart Investment
Buying well-made, custom teamwear might cost a bit more upfront, but it pays off in the long run. You’ll spend less on replacements and repairs, and your team will always look its best, no matter how many matches you play.
How Team Spirit Sports Makes It Easier
At Team Spirit Sports, we know how important it is for your printed shirts to last. That’s why we put quality first in every shirt we make.
Premium Printing Techniques
We use the best methods out there, like screen printing, sublimation, and DTG, to ensure your prints stay vibrant wash after wash. No cheap shortcuts here.
Built for Aussie Conditions
Our shirts are designed to take on the Aussie climate. They’re breathable, durable, and easy to maintain, so you can stay cool and look sharp from training to game day.
Made to Last, Wash After Wash
When you choose Team Spirit Sports, you’re choosing peace of mind. Our custom sportswear is built to handle tough games and tough washes, so you can focus on playing, not worrying about your gear.
Final Wash Tips for Aussie Sports Fans
Looking to get the most out of your printed shirts? These final wash tips will help you master how to wash printed shirts like a pro, so you can keep them game-ready and fresh for every match.
Wash After Every Sweaty Game
After a tough match or a sweaty training session, it’s best to wash your shirts straight away. This helps prevent odours and keeps your prints fresh for longer.
Store Shirts Flat or Hanging
Avoid folding your shirts with the print facing out, it can cause cracks and creases over time. Store them flat or on a hanger to keep your designs looking sharp.
Use a Laundry Bag
Chuck your printed shirts in a laundry bag before washing to give them an extra layer of protection. It’s a simple move that can make a big difference in how well your prints hold up.
These quick tips are all about making your custom shirts last, so you can focus on playing your best, week after week.
Keep Your Prints Fresh and Your Team Looking Sharp
Taking care of your printed shirts doesn’t have to be a hassle. Knowing how to wash printed shirts properly and following these do’s and don’ts, like using gentle cycles and investing in quality gear, will keep your custom prints looking fresh for every game.
At Team Spirit Sports, we’re all about making sure your team gear stands up to the Aussie climate and the toughest matches. From cricket uniforms to footy jerseys, our custom sportswear is built to last, wash after wash.
Ready to upgrade your teamwear? Check out our range of quality custom teamwears at Team Spirit Sports and keep your team looking sharp season after season!
FAQs About How to Wash Printed Shirts
1. Can you wash printed shirts in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash printed shirts in the washing machine! Just remember to turn them inside out, use cold water, and select a gentle cycle to protect the prints.
2. How to wash a shirt without ruining the print?
To keep your prints looking their best, wash in cold water with a mild detergent, avoid harsh chemicals, and air dry in the shade. These simple steps will help prevent fading and cracking.
3. Can I use a dryer for printed shirts?
It’s better to avoid tumble drying, as high heat can cause cracking and peeling. Instead, air dry your shirts in the shade for best results.
4. Is ironing safe for printed shirts?
Iron inside out on a low heat setting, or place a cloth between the iron and the print to avoid damage.
5. Why should I choose high-quality custom shirts?
Quality gear, like custom sportswear from Team Spirit Sports, uses durable inks and tested fabrics that last longer, saving you money and keeping your team looking top-notch.