Bleaching DTG Prints: The Definitive Answer
Based on best practices for garment care, especially for items featuring Direct to Garment (DTG) printing, the answer to whether you can bleach DTG is no.
Caring for your custom-printed apparel correctly is crucial to maintaining the vibrancy and longevity of the design. DTG printing involves applying water-based inks directly onto the fabric. These inks, while durable when properly cured, are susceptible to harsh chemicals like bleach.
According to garment care guidelines, it is strongly advised:
"As to the washing machine settings, it is advised to go for cold water temperature and gentle cycle. Use mild laundry detergent and never use bleach."
Using bleach can cause significant damage to the printed area. It can:
- Fade the colors of the print, making them look washed out or dull.
- Degrade the ink itself, potentially leading to cracking or peeling of the design.
- React negatively with the pre-treatment solution sometimes used on garments before printing, causing discoloration or staining.
Recommended Care for DTG Printed Apparel
To ensure your DTG printed garments look their best for as long as possible, follow these simple care instructions:
- Washing:
- Turn the garment inside out before washing. This protects the print from abrasion with other clothes or the washing machine drum.
- Use cold water temperature.
- Select a gentle wash cycle.
- Use a mild laundry detergent.
- Drying:
- Tumble dry on a low heat setting or, preferably, hang the garment to air dry. High heat can damage the ink.
- Ironing:
- If ironing is necessary, do so inside out on a low setting. Never iron directly over the print.
Care Summary Table
| Action | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Inside out, Cold water, Gentle | Protects print from fading/damage |
| Detergent | Mild | Avoids harsh chemical reactions |
| Bleach | NEVER USE | Causes fading, cracking, damage |
| Drying | Low heat or Air Dry | High heat damages ink |
| Ironing | Inside out, Low heat | Direct heat harms the printed area |
By avoiding bleach and following these straightforward steps, you can help preserve the quality and appearance of your DTG printed clothing.
