How to Wash and Care for Your Custom T-Shirts in Chandler, AZ

At Logowear Express in Chandler, AZ, we understand the passion people have for their custom t-shirts. Whether it’s for a business event, school function, or personal style, you want your shirts to last. To preserve print quality and properly wash custom t-shirts, you need to follow a few simple steps. Proper care ensures your custom t-shirts stay vibrant and comfortable for years.

Why Custom T-Shirts Require Special Care

Custom t-shirts aren’t like regular shirts. They’re designed with unique prints, vinyl, or screen printing that can fade if not handled properly. Improper washing techniques can crack the print or shrink the fabric.

When you preserve print quality, you’re also extending the life of your brand. If you’re in Chandler, AZ, where sunshine and outdoor wear are common, you’ll want your t-shirts to survive both sweat and wash cycles.

Before Your First Wash: Key Things to Know

The first wash is the most important. It sets the tone for the shirt’s longevity.

• Always turn your custom t-shirt inside out.
• Wait at least 24 hours before washing newly printed shirts.
• Use cold water only for the first wash.

This gentle approach helps the ink or vinyl settle. Skipping this step can lead to early fading or peeling.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash Custom T-Shirts

1. Turn the Shirt Inside Out

This protects the printed design from rubbing against other clothes and the washer drum. Even better? It reduces direct exposure to water and detergent.

2. Use Cold Water

Hot water breaks down fibers and damages prints. Cold water helps preserve print quality and keeps the shirt in shape.

3. Choose Gentle Detergent

Pick a detergent that’s free of bleach, strong chemicals, or optical brighteners. This can weaken the design and discolor the fabric.

4. Use a Gentle Cycle

High agitation can stretch, pull, or wear out both the shirt and the print. A delicate or gentle cycle reduces friction during the wash.

5. Wash with Similar Items

Avoid washing custom t-shirts with heavy or rough items like jeans or towels. This can cause friction and damage the print.

Drying: The Right Way to Avoid Cracks and Shrinkage

Drying matters just as much as washing.

Air-Dry When Possible

Hang the shirt on a drying rack or clothesline. It’s the safest way to dry custom t-shirts. Sunlight is great for fast drying, but can fade prints. So hang shirts in the shade.

If You Must Use a Dryer…

• Turn shirts inside out.
• Use the lowest heat setting.
• Remove while still slightly damp to reduce wrinkles and shrinkage.

Too much heat will cause cracking, especially on screen-printed or vinyl designs.

Ironing Custom T-Shirts: What You Need to Know

Never place a hot iron directly on the printed design. That’s a quick way to ruin your shirt.

If ironing is necessary:

• Turn the shirt inside out.
• Use the lowest heat setting.
• Place a clean cloth between the iron and fabric.

Or better yet, use a steamer to remove wrinkles without heat damage.

Common Mistakes That Ruin Custom T-Shirts

Here are a few things to never do when washing or caring for custom t-shirts:

• Don’t use bleach. It breaks down the fabric and fades prints.
• Don’t dry clean. Harsh chemicals will destroy the design.
• Don’t scrub directly on the print.
• Don’t wring out the shirt. It twists the fibers and can cause cracking.
• Don’t let shirts sit wet. This encourages bacteria and odor.

How Often Should You Wash Custom Apparel?

Wash only when needed. Overwashing wears out shirts faster. If it’s not dirty, hang it up and let it air out.

Spot-clean small stains with a damp cloth. This avoids full washes and keeps your shirt fresh.

Storing Custom T-Shirts for Long-Term Use

If you’re not wearing your shirt often, storing it right matters.

• Fold gently, don’t hang.
• Keep in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid direct sunlight.

Want extra protection? Place tissue paper between folds to avoid sticking or cracking.

What to Do If the Print Starts to Peel or Crack

If your print begins to crack or peel, don’t panic. Here’s what you can try:

• Stop the machine drying. Switch to air-drying.
• Use fabric-safe adhesives to fix small vinyl lifts gently.
• Avoid stretching the shirt.

But sometimes, prints wear out over time. When that happens, Logowear Express in Chandler, AZ is here to help you reorder or refresh your designs.

Caring for Different Types of Custom Prints

Screen Printing

Most durable, but still needs cold water and air drying. Avoid heavy detergents.

Heat Transfers

More delicate. Needs cold water and very gentle handling. Never iron directly.

Embroidery

Less prone to damage, but threads can fray. Wash inside out, and avoid rough agitation.

Direct-to-Garment (DTG)

The prints are soft and detailed, but fade quickly if washed in hot water. Always use gentle cycles and dry naturally.

Custom Shirts in Chandler, AZ: Local Climate Tips

Chandler’s hot summers and mild winters mean your custom t-shirts will face sun, sweat, and frequent outdoor use.

To keep them lasting longer in Arizona’s dry heat:

• Store them in shaded closets.
• Use sun-protective sprays if wearing shirts outdoors for long periods.
• Wash them promptly after sweating.

Custom shirts can be both stylish and functional in the desert heat—just treat them with care.

Why Logowear Express Customers Keep Coming Back

At Logowear Express, we take pride in every custom t-shirt we print in Chandler, AZ. Our prints are designed for durability, but proper care keeps them looking fresh.

Our customers love the quality of our prints, but they also value the care instructions we provide. We don’t just sell you a shirt—we help you keep it looking great long after the first wear.

Final Tips to Preserve Print Quality

Let’s summarize the key points:

• Always wash custom t-shirts inside out.
• Use cold water and mild detergent.
• Avoid high heat when washing and drying.
• Never iron directly over the print.
• Air-dry whenever possible.
• Store shirts folded in a cool, dark place.
• Treat them like an investment—they represent your brand, school, or event.

With just a little extra care, your custom t-shirts will look amazing wear after wear.

Need New Custom T-Shirts in Chandler?

Whether you need shirts for your team, school, or event, Logowear Express in Chandler, AZ has you covered. Our high-quality printing and personalized service ensure your apparel stands out—and lasts.

Visit us today or order online!