Quick answer
Wash sublimated game merch inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry or tumble on low. Store it folded away from direct sunlight and rough edges. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and high heat—they break down the dye and dull colors over time.
Why sublimation prints need different care
Sublimation dye bonds into the fabric fibers rather than sitting on top like screen print. That makes the design feel smooth and resist cracking, but the dye can still fade from heat, harsh chemicals, and abrasion. The same care that keeps a sublimated jersey looking new also applies to sublimated bags, mousepads, and other game merch.
Washing sublimated apparel without dulling the print
Turn the item inside out before washing. Use cold water and a mild detergent on a gentle or delicate cycle. Skip fabric softener and dryer sheets—they leave a residue that can make colors look hazy. If you're washing a sublimated jersey like the BLORP! Recycled unisex sports jersey, check the care label first; the recycled polyester fabric is moisture-wicking, but heat and rough cycles can still degrade the print.
BLORP!
Drying and storing to prevent fading and creasing
Air drying is safest. If you use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the item while slightly damp. High heat can cause sublimated colors to fade or the fabric to shrink. For storage, fold items loosely and keep them out of direct sunlight. Avoid hanging sublimated apparel on rough hooks or wire hangers that can snag the surface. For small pieces like the Boop Kitten Kaboodles: Bert & Marnie wood pieces, store them in a cloth bag or original box to prevent scratches and dust.
Boop
Step-by-step sublimation merch care
- 1. Check the care label first: Look for specific instructions on the garment or accessory. If none are present, default to cold wash and air dry. Mistake to avoid: assuming all sublimated items can be washed the same way.
- 2. Turn inside out and pre-treat stains gently: Turn the item inside out. For stains, dab with a small amount of mild detergent and cold water—never rub harshly. Checkpoint: no bleach or fabric softener at any stage.
- 3. Wash cold on a gentle cycle: Use cold water and a gentle cycle with like colors. Avoid overloading the machine to reduce abrasion. Mistake to avoid: washing with heavy items like jeans or towels that can rub the print.
- 4. Air dry or tumble low: Hang or lay flat to air dry. If using a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove promptly. Checkpoint: high heat is the fastest way to fade sublimated colors.
- 5. Store folded and protected: Fold items loosely and store away from direct sunlight. Keep small game pieces in a cloth bag or original box. Mistake to avoid: storing sublimated apparel on rough hooks or in damp areas.
Product facts
- BLORP! Recycled unisex sports jersey: 100% recycled polyester fabric, breathable and moisture-wicking, with a double-layered v-neck collar. Available in larger sizes; sizing runs small, so consider ordering one size up. Polyester holds sublimation dye well, but it still needs cold washing and low heat to prevent fading. The recycled fabric is durable, yet the print can dull if washed with heavy items or dried on high.
- Boop Kitten Kaboodles: Bert & Marnie: Full set of new wood kitten and cat pieces for Boop, compatible with any Boop game. Pieces only; game not included. Wood pieces can warp or scratch if exposed to moisture or stored loose. Keep them dry and in a soft pouch to protect the finish.
