How to care for printed apparel and properly apply DTF transfers

Apparel with prints can maintain vibrant colors and durability — provided proper care and a correct transfer process are followed. In this post, you will find:

• Instructions for washing and ironing clothes with prints, so that the print does not fade, crack, and survives many washes.

• Instructions for applying DTF (Direct To Film) transfers — this will work correctly if you consider the type of material and film.

Instructions for washing and ironing printed apparel

✅ How to wash

• Turn the garment inside out before putting it in the washing machine to reduce direct friction on the print.

• Use cool or a maximum temperature of 30–40 °C, to avoid weakening the adhesive or dyes.

• Choose a delicate wash cycle, without strong spinning.

• Use mild detergents, without bleach or aggressive chemicals.

• Avoid fabric softeners, which can weaken the adhesion of the print.

🧴 What to absolutely avoid

• Do not use professional dry cleaning.

• Do not wash together with garments equipped with zippers, buttons, Velcro — they can scratch the print.

🌬️ How to dry

• Air dry, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.

• If you must use a dryer — set the lowest possible temperature and a short cycle.

• Do not leave damp clothing in the dryer drum for too long.

🔥 How to iron

• Iron the garment from the inside, not directly over the print.

• If you want to iron the outer side — cover the print with a thin cloth or parchment paper.

• The iron temperature should be moderate — avoid overheating the print.

Instructions for applying DTF (Direct To Film) transfers

DTF prints can be very durable (over 60 washes) if you use the correct settings and application steps.

🔧 What you will need

• Heat press — a household iron usually does not provide even temperature and pressure, but it can be used if necessary.

• DTF transfer film

• Parchment paper or a Teflon sheet as a protective layer and for optional re-pressing.

📝 Step by step

1. Heat the press to the target temperature.

   • For most DTF films, the optimal temperature is in the range of ≈150–160 °C.

   • Some materials (e.g., synthetics) may require a lower temperature.

2. Lay the garment flat in the press, smooth the material.

3. (Optional) Pre-press for 5–10 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles.

4. Place the print (film side up), align it, and tape the edges with heat-resistant tape (optional, e.g., in difficult areas).

5. Cover with parchment paper or Teflon.

6. Press for 10–15 seconds with moderate/firm pressure.

7. After the time is up:

   • If the film is cold peel type — wait until it cools down, then gently peel it off.

   • If it's hot peel — peel immediately after pressing (according to the manufacturer's instructions).

8. Optional second press (after peeling), through protective paper for ~5–10 seconds — to enhance adhesion.

📌 Notes and tips

• The film type (hot peel vs cold peel) is crucial.

• Some prints require re-pressing after peeling to increase durability.

• Test settings on a material sample before applying the full print.

Summary

Proper care and a conscious approach to the DTF application process determine the durability of the print. Here's the most important summary:

• When washing: low temperatures, gentle detergents, wash inside out.

• When applying: adhere to the film and material specifications, temperature 150–160 °C, time 10–15 s, moderate/firm pressure, and the appropriate peeling method (hot vs cold peel).

• Optional second press can increase the durability of the print.