How To Make Heat Transfer Vinyl Last Longer

Applying heat transfer vinyl to an article of clothing is an easy way to get creative with your own designs. It’s inexpensive, easy to apply, and with the proper care, can last for years! But if you’ve ever owned heat transfer vinyl clothing, you know how easily even a little peeling or cracking can ruin a good design. Luckily, there are some ways to remedy this—here’s how to make heat transfer vinyl last longer.

1.Wait at Least 24 Hours Before Washing

After the initial application of your heat transfer vinyl, leave it to sit for at least 24 hours before washing the article of clothing. This will allow the adhesive of the heat transfer vinyl time to bond fully with the fabric. If you don’t wait the proper amount of time, the water of the washing process would disrupt the bonding, which will likely lead to the vinyl peeling or cracking.

2.Wash Clothes Inside Out

Once you do need to wash your article of clothing, be sure to turn it inside out so that the heat transfer vinyl is on the inside. This will give the vinyl itself an additional layer of protection from the other clothes in the wash, which will help it stay in good condition longer.

3.Avoid Excess Heat

It seems ironic since heat transfer vinyl is applied with heat, but after the application process, excess heat can actually damage your heat transfer vinyl. When washing your heat transfer vinyl, always use warm or cold water as opposed to hot, since it can loosen the adhesive and cause it to peel. Then, hang your clothing to air dry or machine dry it on a low heat setting. Similarly, you should never directly iron your heat transfer vinyl as it could melt or burn.

4.Don’t Bleach or Dry Clean

Both bleach and the chemicals used in the dry-cleaning process are quite harsh and can seriously damage heat transfer vinyl. Therefore, never send your clothing with heat transfer vinyl to the dry cleaner. You should also avoid treating or washing your clothing with products containing bleach.

With these ways how to make heat transfer vinyl last longer, you can ensure the longevity of your beautiful new heat transfer vinyl product. Your design will last even longer if you purchase a high-quality vinyl—find just the right fabric heat transfer vinyl for your project at asiprint.