The best way to clean a screen printed hoodie is by hand washing it inside out in cold water to preserve the design's integrity. If using a machine, follow these guidelines for the best results.
Here's a detailed guide to cleaning your screen printed hoodie:
Hand Washing (Recommended)
- Turn it inside out: This protects the printed design from direct abrasion.
- Use cold water: Hot water can damage the print and cause it to crack or fade.
- Mild detergent: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach. Opt for a gentle detergent.
- Wash gently: Submerge the hoodie in the water and gently agitate it. Avoid scrubbing the printed area directly.
- Rinse thoroughly: Make sure all the detergent is removed.
- Do not wring: Squeeze out excess water gently.
- Air dry: Hang the hoodie inside out or lay it flat to dry. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the print. Do not put it in the dryer, as the heat can damage the screen print.
Machine Washing (Use with Caution)
If you choose to machine wash your hoodie, take extra precautions:
- Turn it inside out: Again, this protects the printed design.
- Use a laundry bag: Placing the hoodie in a mesh laundry bag provides an extra layer of protection against abrasion during the wash cycle.
- Cold water, delicate cycle: Use the gentlest cycle available with cold water. A shorter cycle is preferable.
- Mild detergent: Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals.
- Skip the spin cycle (if possible): High-speed spinning can damage the print. If you can't skip it, use the lowest spin setting.
- Air dry only: Absolutely no dryer! Tumble drying will almost certainly damage the screen print. Hang the hoodie inside out or lay it flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight.
Detergent Considerations:
| Detergent Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Bleach | Avoid! Will damage the print and fabric. |
| Harsh Chemicals | Avoid! Can cause fading and cracking. |
| Mild Detergent | Recommended! Gentle on both the print and fabric. |
Additional Tips:
- Ironing: If you need to iron your hoodie, turn it inside out and use a low setting. Avoid ironing directly over the screen printed area.
- Stain Removal: Treat stains gently with a mild stain remover. Avoid rubbing vigorously.
- Frequency: Wash your hoodie only when necessary to prolong the life of the print.
- Storage: Store your hoodie folded or hung in a cool, dry place.
By following these guidelines, you can help keep your screen printed hoodie looking its best for years to come.
