CARING FOR YOUR HTV GARMENT

Congratulations on your new personalized garments adorned with HTV! Now, let's dive into how to care for your heat transfer vinyl garments. Proper care is essential to ensure their longevity and keep them looking great for years to come. Here are some easy tips to follow:

 

Don't wash for at least 24-48 hours after receiving:

Allow the HTV to cure properly. When we apply the heat to activate the adhesive, it needs time to harden and cool without any interruptions. Washing and drying the garment immediately after can cause the vinyl to peel or crack. Also, wait 24-48 hours before wearing the shirt to protect the vinyl from the potential loosening effect of sweat. If you're selling the garment, advise your customers to wait as well.

 

Avoid dry cleaning:

Never dry clean garments decorated with HTV. The dry cleaning process involves chemicals and high temperatures that can damage the heat transfer vinyl. Stick to alternative cleaning methods.

 

Wash and dry inside out:

This step is crucial for the initial wash and subsequent wash/dry cycles. Turning the garment inside out provides an additional layer of protection for the HTV, preventing friction and abrasion against other clothing in the laundry.

 

Choose cold or warm water for washing:

Avoid water temperatures exceeding 178°F (81°C) when washing HTV-decorated clothing. High temperatures can weaken the adhesive, leading to peeling or cracking over time. Stick to cold or warm water settings.

 

Use mild detergent:

Avoid using detergents with additives like "whiteners," "stain fighters," or "color brighteners" as they can be too harsh for HTV. Similarly, "green" detergents tend to be corrosive to heat transfer vinyl. Opt for mild, gentle detergents.

 

Dry on low or hang dry:

Hang drying is the best option for HTV-decorated garments, but if you choose to use a dryer, select low heat settings. Just like with washing, minimal heat is key to protecting the heat transfer vinyl. Hang drying also helps minimize wrinkles in the HTV after washing.

 

Don't iron directly on the vinyl:

Avoid ironing the garment directly as high temperatures can melt or burn the vinyl and adhesive. If ironing is necessary, use low heat and place a cloth or towel between the iron and the transfer to protect the vinyl.

 

Avoid bleach and fabric softeners:

Bleach and fabric softeners can be damaging to HTV. It's best to steer clear of them when caring for your decorated garments. By avoiding these products, you'll help ensure the longevity of your heat transfer vinyl.

 

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your heat transfer vinyl garments from The Print Plug for their entire lifetime! If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out.