Quick Answer
To prevent fading on your Comfort Colors tee, wash it inside out in cold water with mild detergent, then air dry or tumble dry on low. Avoid hot water and high heat, which break down the dyes and cause colors to fade.
Why Comfort Colors Tees Fade
Comfort Colors tees are made from 100% cotton, a natural fiber that absorbs dyes but also releases them more easily than synthetics. The brand's signature garment-dyed process gives each shirt a soft, lived-in feel, but the dye is more vulnerable to fading if not cared for properly.
The main culprits are hot water, high dryer heat, and harsh detergents. These break down the dye bonds and strip the color from the fibers. Sunlight can also cause fading if you hang the shirt in direct sun for long periods.
What About Prints?
If your Comfort Colors tee has a print, like the Ian Happ Signature Series, the care is similar. The print is applied with fade-resistant inks, but it's still a good idea to wash inside out to protect the design from friction against other clothes. This reduces wear on both the print and the fabric.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
- Turn the tee inside out: Before washing, turn your Comfort Colors tee inside out. This reduces friction on the outer surface and protects both the fabric and any print from rubbing against other clothes in the wash. Always check for stains before washing—treat them before the wash cycle.
- Wash in cold water with mild detergent: Use cold water (below 30°C or 85°F) and a mild detergent. Hot water opens the fibers and releases dye, so cold water helps keep the color locked in. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which can also cause fading. If you're worried about dye transfer, wash with like colors or do a quick colorfast test on a hidden seam.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low: After washing, gently reshape the tee and lay it flat to air dry, or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting. High heat in the dryer is one of the biggest causes of fading. Air drying is the gentlest option and also saves energy. If you must use a dryer, remove the tee while it's still slightly damp to avoid over-drying.
- Store away from direct sunlight: When not wearing, store your tee in a cool, dark place. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the dye over time. If you hang it, use a padded hanger to avoid stretching the shoulders. Fold the tee if you have limited closet space—it helps maintain the shape and prevents fading from light.
Product Care Note
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Ian Happ Signature Series: This product was designed by the Jomboy Media team, and is printed in the USA with fade-resistant inks on a premium Comfort Colors shirt. The fade-resistant inks help the print stay vibrant, but following the care steps below will also keep the shirt's base color from fading.
Ian Happ Signature Series
