How to Care for Your Merch: Tips to Make It Last
When you invest in custom merch—whether it’s for your band, business, or event—you want it to look great for as long as possible. But not all merch is created the same. The type of printing used on your shirt, hoodie, or hat makes a big difference in how it feels, how it looks, and how long it lasts.
At Amplify Merch, we work with different printing and decoration methods depending on the product and design. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of printing, along with the best care tips to keep your merch looking fresh and avoid fading.
Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing
What it is:
DTF involves printing a design onto a special film, applying adhesive powder, and then heat-pressing it onto fabric. It’s one of the newer technologies in merch printing and has quickly become the most popular option thanks to its affordability and versatility.
Why it’s great:
- Works on cotton, polyester, blends, and more
- Durable and flexible print that resists cracking
- Perfect for detailed, colorful designs
- Great balance of quality and cost
Care tips:
- Wash inside out in cold water
- Avoid high heat—tumble dry on low or hang dry for best results
- Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals
- If ironing is needed, place a cloth between the iron and design
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing
What it is:
DTG is like a high-tech inkjet printer for shirts. It prints directly onto fabric, making it ideal for detailed artwork or full-color designs.
Why it’s great:
- Photorealistic prints with fine detail
- No minimums—great for small runs or one-offs
- Soft feel since the ink soaks into the fibers
Care tips:
- Wash inside out on cold, gentle cycle
- Skip fabric softeners (they break down ink faster)
- Air dry when possible; if using a dryer, use low heat
- Avoid direct sunlight when storing to prevent fading
Embroidery
What it is:
Instead of ink, embroidery uses colored threads stitched directly into the fabric. You’ll often see it on hats, polos, jackets, and hoodies.
Why it’s great:
- Professional, high-end look
- Extremely durable—threads won’t “fade” like ink
- Adds texture and style
Care tips:
- Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water
- Avoid wringing out embroidered areas
- Air dry or tumble dry on low—high heat can shrink fabric around the thread
- Store flat or hanging to avoid puckering of the design
Heat Transfer & Vinyl
What it is:
Designs are printed onto a special transfer or cut from vinyl, then pressed onto fabric with heat.
Why it’s great:
- Sharp detail and crisp colors
- Great for small runs and custom names/numbers
- Works on many fabric types
Care tips:
- Wash cold and inside out
- Never iron directly over the design (it will melt!)
- Hang dry to prevent peeling
Screen Printing (The Classic)
What it is:
Screen printing is the traditional method where ink is pressed through a mesh screen onto fabric. It’s bold, durable, and still the gold standard for high-volume orders.
Why it’s great:
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors
- Best for simple designs with solid colors
- Extremely durable with the right care
Care tips:
- Wash inside out in cold water
- Avoid bleach and harsh detergents
- Hang dry or tumble dry on low to prevent cracking
- Don’t iron directly on the print
Final Word: Make Your Merch Last
No matter the method, the golden rule is cold water, a gentle wash, and low heat. Heat and harsh detergents are the main culprits behind cracking, fading, and peeling. Treat your merch like the investment it is, and it’ll keep looking stage-ready for years.
At Amplify Merch, we don’t just print your designs—we want them to last. Whether you’re rocking the latest DTF, DTG one-offs, embroidered hats, or the timeless look of screen printing, following these care tips will keep your merch looking as good as the day it arrived.
Want help figuring out which printing method is right for your next design? Reach out to us—we’ll help you choose the best option for your style, budget, and long-term wear.
Be sure to use coupon code #harleysayshi at checkout to get 20% off any purchase!