Quick Answer
Wash your graphic tees inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry or tumble dry on low. This routine prevents fading and cracking of the print.
Why Graphic Tees Need Special Care
The screen-printed design on a graphic tee is more delicate than the fabric itself. Heat, friction, and harsh detergents can cause the ink to crack, peel, or fade over time. A little extra attention during laundry keeps the graphic looking crisp and the colors bright.
What to Avoid
Bleach and fabric softeners can break down the ink and the fabric's fibers. High heat from a dryer or iron can melt or warp the print. Skipping the inside-out step exposes the design to direct abrasion inside the machine.
Step-by-Step Graphic Tee Care
- Turn the tee inside out: Before washing, flip the shirt so the graphic faces inward. This protects the print from rubbing against other clothes or the machine drum. Always check that the design is fully turned to the inside.
- Wash in cold water on gentle cycle: Set your washer to cold water and a delicate or gentle cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener. Cold water prevents ink bleeding and fading. Hot water accelerates fading – stick with cold every time.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low: The safest method is to lay the tee flat or hang it to air dry away from direct sunlight. If using a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the shirt while it's still slightly damp. High heat is the #1 cause of cracked prints – never use high heat.
- Iron inside out if needed: If the tee needs ironing, turn it inside out and use a low heat setting. Never place the iron directly on the graphic, as the heat can melt the ink. Skip ironing altogether when possible; steam from a shower can release wrinkles.
- Store folded, not hung: Fold your graphic tees and store them in a drawer or on a shelf. Hanging can stretch the neckline and cause the graphic to crack from the weight of the fabric. For tees with heavy prints, folding is always better than hanging.
Product Spotlight
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Too Hot to Behave Graphic Tee: This Too Hot to Behave Graphic Tee from STATE FORTY EIGHT features a classic fit and screen-printed graphic design, available in sizes Small through X-Large. A classic fit tee like this is a daily staple, so following proper care steps will keep its bold graphic looking fresh wear after wear.
Too Hot to Behave Graphic Tee