DTG Basics: Product maintenance

In this article, you will find basic information on how to maintain DTG printed products so you can enjoy them for as long as possible. Proper product maintenance is a sustainable habit, acting as a factor in reducing waste and excessive consumption.

Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing has revolutionized the fashion and custom materials industry, offering incredible flexibility in design and vibrant colors. At Printoteca, we use advanced Kornit Avalanche HD technology to produce high-quality, durable, and environmentally friendly prints. To ensure that your digitally printed products maintain their vibrant appearance and quality for as long as possible, it is essential to follow a few simple maintenance steps. Here’s how to correctly wash, dry, iron, and store your DTG products.

Washing Water Temperature: Wash DTG printed products at 30 degrees. Hot water can affect the quality of the print. Generally, a temperature of 30 degrees is recommended because it helps not only maintain the quality of the print but also the fabric.

Selecting Detergent: Use mild detergents, without bleach or other strong chemical additives, which can fade the colors. Avoid using strong cleaning products directly on the print, as there is a high risk of compromising it. Keep in mind that more detergent does not mean better cleaning, and it is important to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended dosage.

Washing Cycle: Opt for a delicate washing cycle to minimize abrasion on the print surface. Avoid using washing programs with many rotations, as these have a higher risk of damaging the print and deforming the fabric.

Inside-Out Washing: Turn clothes inside out before washing to protect the print from rubbing against other clothes or the inside parts of the washing machine.

Drying Air Drying: It is best to air dry DTG products naturally, laid out on a rack or hung on a line. Avoid direct exposure to the sun for extended periods, as UV rays can affect the colors.

Avoiding the Dryer: If it is absolutely necessary to use a dryer, select a low-temperature cycle. Excessive heat can damage the print and, over time, will lead to a decline in its quality.

Ironing Print Protection: Do not iron directly over the print. If you need to iron the garment, turn it inside out or use a protective material (baking paper) between the iron and the print.

Iron Settings: Use a low or medium temperature on the iron and avoid excessive steam, which can negatively affect the print.

Storage Avoid Folding: Try not to fold the clothes directly over the print to prevent cracking or peeling of the design. If possible, store clothes on hangers.

Dry and Cool Places: Store DTG printed clothes in dry and cool places, protected from direct sunlight and humidity, to extend the life of the prints.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you will ensure that your digitally printed products with Kornit Avalanche HD technology from Printoteca maintain their vibrant look and quality for a long period of time. A little effort in proper product maintenance can make a big difference in their durability and long-term appearance.