How durable are the prints? Any care tips? One of the most common questions about custom apparel is: “Will my custom shirts actually last?” The short answer is yes—modern print methods are designed for durability. But longevity depends on two things: choosing the right print method for your needs and following proper care instructions.
With professional-grade printing, garments are made to withstand regular wear and washing. And with a few simple care steps, you can keep them looking vibrant for years.
How Long Do Shirt.Co Prints Last?
The durability of your print depends on the method used, the type of garment, and how it’s cared for. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each method we offer:
Method #1: Screen Printing
Screen printing is the most durable option. When properly cared for, screen prints can last for 50–100+ washes without fading or cracking. The ink bonds tightly to the fabric, making it ideal for team uniforms, workwear, or merch that gets heavy use.
Method #2: Embroidery
Embroidery is virtually permanent. Because it’s stitched into the fabric, it lasts as long as the garment itself. Embroidered logos and designs are especially resistant to fading and washing damage.
Method #3: Heat Transfer & Vinyl
Heat transfer and vinyl designs can be very durable when handled correctly, but they’re more sensitive to high heat. You can expect them to last 20–40 washes before some peeling or cracking may occur, depending on use.
Method #4: Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing
DTG prints soak into the fibers of the garment, creating a soft feel. They’re durable but may not last quite as long as screen printing under rough washing conditions. With good care, DTG shirts often last 30–50 washes before showing signs of fading.
Factors That Affect Print Durability
Even the best printing method can wear out prematurely if the garment isn’t cared for properly. Here are the key factors that affect longevity:
- Washing temperature: Hot water can break down inks and adhesives faster than cold.
- Drying methods: High heat from dryers is a common culprit in fading, cracking, or peeling prints.
- Detergents: Harsh chemicals and bleach weaken both fabric and print.
- Fabric type: Natural fibers like cotton hold prints differently than blends or performance fabrics.
- Frequency of wear: A shirt worn weekly will naturally fade sooner than one worn occasionally.
Care Tips From Shirt. Co to Maximize Durability
If you want your custom shirts to last, a little TLC goes a long way. Here are Shirt.co’s top care recommendations:
Tip No. 1: Washing
Follow these steps:
- Turn shirts inside out before washing to protect the print.
- Use cold water whenever possible to preserve color and prevent cracking.
- Wash with similar colors and fabrics. Avoid mixing heavy jeans or towels that cause friction.
Tip No. 2: Drying
These drying methods extend garment life:
- Air drying is best. Hang or lay flat.
- If you must use a dryer, choose a low-heat or tumble dry setting.
- Avoid wringing out the shirt, which can stress seams and designs.
Tip No. 3: Ironing
- Never iron directly over the print.
- If ironing is necessary, turn the shirt inside out or place a protective cloth over the design.
Tip No. 4: General Care
- Do not use bleach or strong detergents.
- Avoid dry cleaning, which can be too harsh for prints.
- Spot clean stains gently to minimize overall wear.
Realistic Expectations
No shirt lasts forever, but the right combination of print method + proper care can keep yours looking great far longer than cheap alternatives. For example:
- A bulk order of screen-printed team shirts can still look sharp after a full season.
- DTG prints for a boutique clothing line can hold up for years if washed gently.
- Embroidered polos for a company staff uniform can easily outlast multiple work cycles.
Why Shirt.Co Prints Last Longer
Durability isn’t just about the ink or thread—it’s about the process. At Shirt.co, we:
- Use top-tier inks and equipment that meet professional industry standards.
- Perform pretreatment and curing correctly to ensure prints bond firmly.
- Test samples for wash resistance before running large orders.
- Offer expert guidance on which method will hold up best for your project.
We don’t cut corners because we know your shirts represent more than fabric, they represent your brand, your team, or your event.
Contact Shirt.Co Right Away for the Most Durable Prints
With the right method and proper care, Shirt.co prints are built to last. Screen printing and embroidery deliver the longest wear, DTG offers soft detail with solid durability, and heat transfer works great with the right care. By following simple washing and drying tips, you’ll keep your designs crisp, vibrant, and ready to wear for the long haul.
Call us today at 636-926-2777, shoot us an email at info@shirt.co, or request a free quote to get started.
