How to Care for DTF Printed Clothing (And Make It Last)
At In The Morning, we put a lot of care into how our clothing is printed and produced. Our designs are created using Direct to Film (DTF) printing, a process chosen for its durability, flexibility and vibrant finish. With the right care, DTF printed clothing can look great for a long time — and keeping it that way is simple.
This guide explains how to care for your DTF printed garments properly, so they stay comfortable, colourful and wearable for years to come.
Why Proper Care Matters
DTF prints are designed to be long-lasting, but like any printed clothing, how you wash and dry them makes a big difference. Incorrect washing methods or excessive heat can reduce the lifespan of the print and the garment itself.
By following a few simple steps, you can help prevent cracking, fading and unnecessary wear.
Wash Inside Out
We always recommend washing DTF printed garments inside out. Turning your clothing inside out before washing helps protect the printed area from friction against other garments and the washing machine drum.
This small step significantly reduces surface wear and helps preserve the clarity and detail of the design.
Use a Cool Wash
For best results, wash your garments on a cool or low-temperature cycle, ideally at 30°C. Hot water can weaken the adhesive used in DTF printing over time and may cause premature fading.
A gentle wash cycle is more than enough to keep your clothing clean while protecting both the fabric and the print.
Avoid Tumble Drying
We do not recommend tumble drying DTF printed clothing. High heat can damage the print, cause it to lose flexibility and increase the risk of cracking or peeling.
Instead, we suggest air drying your garments naturally. Lay them flat or hang them up away from direct heat or sunlight for best results.
Choose Mild Detergents
Using mild, non-abrasive detergents helps maintain the quality of both the fabric and the print. Avoid bleach, strong stain removers or fabric softeners, as these can break down the print and affect colour vibrancy.
Less is more when it comes to washing printed clothing.
Iron With Care
If ironing is needed, never iron directly over the print. Turn the garment inside out or place a cloth over the design before ironing. Use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the printed area.
Alternatively, steaming is a safer option for removing creases.
Built to Last, With the Right Care
DTF printing is chosen for its strength and flexibility, allowing designs to move naturally with the fabric without cracking. Combined with high-quality garments, this means your clothing is made to last — as long as it’s looked after properly.
At In The Morning, we believe good clothing should stand the test of time. By washing inside out, avoiding tumble drying and using gentle care methods, you’ll keep your printed garments looking and feeling their best.
If you have any questions about caring for your clothing, we’re always happy to help.