Lana_CScreen printed shirts are made to last, but improper washing can shorten the life of the print and fabric. Hot water, high heat drying, and harsh chemicals are the most common causes of cracking, fading, and unnecessary wear.
This guide explains exactly how to wash screen printed shirts the right way, answers common care questions, and clears up misconceptions so your shirts continue to look good wash after wash.
How Do I Wash Screen Printed Shirts?
Follow these basic care steps every time you wash a screen printed shirt:
- Turn the shirt inside out before washing
- Wash in cold water only
- Use a gentle or normal wash cycle
- Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and stain removers
- Hang dry when possible or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting
These steps reduce friction, heat exposure, and chemical contact with the printed design.
Will My Screen Printed Shirt Shrink?
Some shrinkage is normal and depends on the fabric type.
- 100% cotton: May shrink slightly, even if preshrunk
- Cotton/poly blends (50/50): Minimal shrinkage
- Polyester or performance fabrics: Little to no shrinkage
Preshrunk garments shrink less than untreated fabrics, but they can still shrink if exposed to heat. Washing in cold water and avoiding high heat drying is the best way to minimize size changes.
Will the Printed Ink Wash Away?
No. Professionally screen printed ink is designed to withstand regular washing. When cared for properly, the print should not wash away.
Issues typically occur only when shirts are washed in hot water, dried on high heat, or exposed to harsh detergents or chemicals.
Will My Shirt Color Fade Over Time?
Some fading is normal over the life of a garment, especially with darker colors. However, proper care can significantly slow the process.
Always wash screen printed shirts inside out using cold water. Avoid fabric softeners and excessive heat, which can weaken fabric fibers and dull colors over time.
Will the Printed Ink Crack or Peel?
Cracking or peeling is almost always the result of improper care.
Common causes include:
- Washing in hot water
- Drying on high heat
- Using bleach or aggressive stain removers
Washing inside out in cold water and drying on low heat greatly reduces the risk of cracking or peeling.
Can I Use Bleach on Screen Printed Shirts?
No. Bleach, especially chlorine bleach, breaks down both the fabric and the printed ink. It can cause discoloration, weaken the shirt fibers, and damage the print.
Should I Use Fabric Softener on Custom Shirts?
No. Fabric softeners coat garment fibers and can interfere with the flexibility and durability of the printed ink. Over time, this can contribute to cracking or fading.
Are Stain Removers Safe on Screen Printed Shirts?
Stain removers are not recommended on printed areas. These products contain strong chemicals that can break down ink and weaken the print.
If stain treatment is necessary, avoid direct contact with the printed design.
Will My Custom Shirt Bleed in the Wash?
Screen printed shirts should not bleed when washed properly.
However, garment-dyed shirts require special care. These shirts should always be washed separately before wearing, as excess dye may release during the first few washes.
Will White Ink Turn Pink?
White ink should not change color under normal circumstances. In rare cases, dye migration can occur when dye from the garment fabric transfers into the printed ink.
This is more likely with:
- 100% polyester garments
- Dark or heavily dyed fabrics such as red, charcoal, or purple
Proper production methods and correct washing instructions help prevent this issue.
Built by Industry Experts
For over a decade, Bolt Printing has produced high-quality custom screen printed apparel using professional-grade inks and proven production processes. With proper care, your screen printed shirts are designed to hold up through regular wear and washing.
Need Help?
If you have additional questions about caring for screen printed shirts or ordering custom apparel, our team is always available to help.