How Do You Wash Direct-to-Film (DTF) Transfers?

Proper washing care is essential to maintaining the look and feel of DTF-printed garments.

Pre-Wash Considerations:

Before any garment reaches the consumer, it should undergo a quality test wash to evaluate adhesion, stretch, and fade resistance. CobraFlex recommends using garments made from combed ring-spun cotton, 100% polyester, tri-blends, or high-density fleece to get optimal DTF adhesion and wash fastness.

Washing Guidelines:

• Wait 24–48 hours before first wash to allow full ink/adhesive bonding.
• Turn garment inside out to minimize abrasion.
• Use cold or warm water (preferably 85°F–105°F). Avoid hot water above 120°F.
• Choose mild or phosphate-free detergents like All Free Clear, Seventh Generation, or Tide Free.
• Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and heavy-duty enzyme detergents, as they can weaken adhesive over time.

Machine Wash vs. Hand Wash:

Garments printed with DTF transfers can be safely laundered in a standard residential or commercial washing machine as long as temperature and detergent guidelines are followed. For delicate garments or small batch custom apparel, hand washing with cold water may extend print life.

Dryer Settings:

• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry for best results.
• Avoid high heat drying cycles above 140°F, which may accelerate ink degradation or adhesive fatigue.
• Do not iron directly on the print. If ironing is necessary, use a protective sheet or turn the garment inside out.

Washing By Fabric Type

• Cotton: Wash cold, tumble dry low. Holds up well under standard care.
• Polyester: Use cold water only. Higher temperatures can cause sublimation inks in the garment to migrate through the DTF layer.
• Tri-blends: Use delicate or cold settings only; dry flat when possible.
• Fleece: Wash inside out on gentle cycle. Do not over-dry.
• Stretch fabrics (Lycra, Spandex): Cold wash, hang dry. High heat can cause cracking.

Brand-Specific Testing

Garments from brands like Bella+Canvas, Gildan Softstyle, Next Level, Hanes, and Jerzees have all been tested with CobraFlex DTF transfers. Results show optimal longevity with proper care, making them ideal for custom apparel, uniforms, and promotional garments.

Why CobraFlex DTF Prints Last Longer

CobraFlex’s DTF printers paired with CobraFlex DTF InksFormulated by DuPont Artistri inks ensure deeper fiber penetration, smoother surfaces, and more vibrant colors that resist fading. The prints can withstand 50+ home washes without significant cracking or peeling when properly pressed and maintained.

Local Supply & Support

Whether you're running a fulfillment center in Minneapolis, a boutique in Rochester, or a startup apparel brand in Idaho Falls, Buckets of Ink has everything you need to produce and maintain professional-grade DTF prints:

• CobraFlex DTF Printers
• Dual Pneumatic Heat Presses
• Hot melt powders (low and high-temp)
• PET film rolls in multiple sizes
• DuPont Artistri P1600 inks

We offer fast shipping and dedicated support across Minnesota and Eastern Idaho, helping shops from St. Cloud to Pocatello stay competitive with cutting-edge equipment and the best print care practices.