How to Wash Sublimation Shirts & Tumblers Without Fading

To wash sublimation shirts, turn them inside out, wash in cold water with mild detergent, avoid bleach and softeners, and air dry or use low heat. For tumblers, hand wash with warm water and gentle soap, avoid abrasive sponges, and keep out of the dishwasher’s high heat.

Washing sublimation-printed items can be tricky if you’re not sure of the best approach. Whether you’re worried about the colors fading, the fabric shrinking, or using the wrong detergent, it’s easy to feel unsure.

New to sublimation? Check out our full guide on how to do sublimation so you understand the basics before learning about care and washing.

Core Rules for Washing Sublimation (Applies to Everything)

Follow these universal steps to keep any sublimated print vibrant and durable:

• Turn items inside out before washing to protect the print.
• Wash in cold water only. Hot water causes fading and bleeding.
• Use mild, color-safe detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softeners.
• Air dry whenever possible, or tumble dry on low heat.
• Avoid direct sunlight and high heat during drying or storage.

Think of these as your golden rules. Stick to them, and your prints will stay sharp and colorful.

Special Cases for Different Sublimated Items

Shirts & Apparel

• Pretreat stains gently with a color-safe stain remover.
• Wash with similar colors to prevent transfer.
• Don’t overload the washer — too much friction wears down the print.

Polyester Sublimation Shirts

• Polyester holds sublimation ink really well, but it’s extra heat-sensitive.
• Always dry on air or low heat only.
• If ironing is needed, use the lowest setting and place a cloth between the iron and fabric.

Sublimation Tumblers & Drinkware

• Hand wash preferred using warm water and gentle soap.
• Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh cleaners.
• If using a dishwasher:
  • Place on the top rack only
  • Use mild detergent
  • Skip high-heat dry cycles
• Consider using a sublimation-safe coating spray for added protection.

Jerseys & Sportswear

• Cold wash after heavy use to remove sweat.
• Air dry to protect both the fabric and the ink.
• Limit UV exposure when drying outdoors.

Washing is one part of the process, but so is pressing. Make sure you’re following the right heat press sublimation settings to avoid fading or damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Washing too soon (wait at least 24 hours after pressing before the first wash).
• Using bleach or fabric softener (they strip the color).
• Washing in hot water (causes fading).
• High-heat tumble drying (shrinks fabric and breaks down ink).

Myth-Busting: Sublimation Wash Care

Does sublimation fade after the first wash?
Nope. If you follow the core rules (cold water, mild detergent, low heat), sublimation stays bright wash after wash. Fading usually happens only when people use hot water, bleach, or crank up the dryer.

Do you need special detergent for sublimation?
Not at all. You don’t need some fancy “sublimation-safe” soap. A mild, color-safe detergent works perfectly. The key is avoiding harsh chemicals, bleach, and fabric softeners that can weaken fibers or dull the colors.

Can sublimation prints crack like vinyl?
No way. Vinyl sits on top of fabric, which is why it can peel or crack over time. Sublimation bonds into the fibers themselves, so the design moves with the fabric and stays smooth, even after heavy washing.

Do sublimation tumblers survive the dishwasher?
Most can, but it’s still safer to hand wash. Dishwashers use high heat and strong detergents, which can slowly dull the colors. If you do use a dishwasher, stick to the top rack and avoid extra-hot cycles.

Sublimation vs Screen Print vs Vinyl wash durability

Printing Method	Wash Durability	Heat Resistance	Fading Risk
Sublimation	Excellent (becomes part of fabric)	Sensitive to high heat	Low if cared for
Screen Print	Moderate (sits on top)	Good	Can crack/peel
Vinyl/HTV	Moderate	Poor	Can peel off

Quick Do’s & Don’ts

Sublimation prints last a long time if you wash them right: use cold water, mild detergent, and low heat when drying. Skip bleach, fabric softener, and harsh scrubbing. Hand wash drinkware if possible. Follow these basics, and your designs will stay bright and won’t crack or peel.

✅ Do’s

• Wash in cold water
• Use mild, color-safe detergent
• Turn clothes inside out before washing
• Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
• Hand wash tumblers and mugs when you can

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t use bleach or fabric softener
• Don’t wash on hot cycles
• Don’t iron directly over designs
• Don’t overload the washer or dryer
• Don’t leave items in direct sun for long periods

If you’re curious about materials beyond polyester, here’s a detailed look at sublimation on cotton and how to handle blends.

Special Case: Stain Removal

Stain Removal at a Glance

• Oils/Grease → Dab with dish soap, wash cold
• Ink Transfer → Rinse cold, spot treat with rubbing alcohol
• Sweat Marks → Baking soda paste or vinegar rinse

Oils & Grease
Blot the stain with a paper towel, then treat with a small amount of mild dish soap or a pre-wash spray. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing in cold water. Avoid hot water, it can set the stain deeper.

Ink Transfer
If another print accidentally bleeds onto your sublimated shirt, act fast. Rinse with cold water, then gently rub with a little rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad. Don’t scrub hard or it could damage the fibers.

Sweat Marks
Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply it to the stained area, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash as usual. For tougher stains, add a splash of white vinegar during the rinse cycle.

Pro tip: Always spot test first, especially on light fabrics, so you don’t accidentally cause more discoloration.

Why Proper Care Matters for Sublimated Items

When it comes to sublimation printing, vibrant colors, and sharp designs are part of the appeal.

To keep their vibrant colors and durability intact. The product’s quality and lifespan can be reduced by the use of improper washing and drying techniques, resulting in designs that fade, peel, or crack.

Your items can stay bright and look their best even after multiple washes by understanding how to handle sublimated fabrics, including choosing the right water temperature and detergent.

Preparing Your Sublimated Shirts for Washing

Pre-Wash Prep:

Before tossing your sublimation-printed shirt into the wash, take these steps:

• Check for Stains: Inspect the shirt for any spots or stains. Pre-treat any visible stains with a mild, stain-fighting solution that is safe for sublimated prints.
• Turn the Shirt Inside Out: Flip the shirt to protect the printed design from direct contact with detergent and other fabrics. This simple step helps minimize wear on the design and fabric. Check out what shirt is best for sublimation.

How to Wash Sublimation Clothing the Right Way

Keeping sublimated clothes looking new isn’t hard, but you do need to treat them right. Here’s the simple routine that works every time:

1. Turn clothes inside out before tossing them in the wash. This protects the surface from friction.
2. Wash in cold water only. Heat speeds up fading, so cold is your best friend.
3. Use mild, color-safe detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener because they weaken fibers and dull the print.
4. Choose gentle cycles. Avoid heavy-duty or high-spin washes that stress the fabric.
5. Air dry when possible. If you use a dryer, stick to low heat.
6. Never iron directly over the print. If needed, iron inside-out on low heat.

Follow these steps, and your sublimated shirts, jerseys, or workwear will keep their bright colors and smooth feel for the long haul.

Washing Sublimation Shirts (Step-by-Step)

Step-by-step instructions to wash sublimated shirts without fading or damage. Total Time: PT25M

1. Turn the shirt inside out to protect the print from friction.
2. Set your washer to cold water with a gentle cycle.
3. Add mild, color-safe detergent — skip bleach or softener.
4. Wash with similar colors to avoid dye transfer.
5. Air dry on a hanger or tumble dry on low heat.
6. If ironing is needed, do it inside out on low heat, never directly over the design.

Best Practices for Washing Sublimated Shirts

Choosing the Right Detergent and Water Temperature

• Mild Detergents: Opt for gentle, color-safe detergents that won’t strip the dye from the fabric. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage both the fabric and the sublimation print.
• Cold Water: Wash your sublimation shirts in cold water to prevent the colors from bleeding and reduce the risk of fading. Cold water helps maintain the vibrancy of the print and is gentler on the fabric.

Gentle Cycle or Hand Wash?

• Gentle Cycle: Using a gentle cycle on your washing machine helps reduce agitation that can cause print damage. This cycle minimizes the wear and tear on both the shirt and the design.
• Hand Wash: For extra care, hand washing in cold water with mild detergent is ideal. This method is gentler and provides better control, ensuring the sublimation print remains intact.

The Wash: Handle with Care

• Avoid Overloading: Wash sublimated shirts with similar colors and avoid overloading the washing machine. Overloading can cause excessive friction, which may damage the print.
• Skip Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can leave residues that might affect the sublimation print’s quality. Stick to detergents designed for color protection instead.

Drying Techniques for Sublimated Shirts

Air Dry – The Safest Option:

• Air Drying: The best way to preserve the integrity of sublimation prints is to air dry the shirt. Hang it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading and fabric damage.

Low Heat Setting When Using a Dryer:

• Dryer Use: If air drying isn’t possible, use a low heat setting on your dryer. High heat can cause the sublimation ink to break down or warp the fabric. Always remove the shirt promptly once the drying cycle is complete.

Washing Sublimation Tumblers (Step-by-Step)

Step-by-step instructions to wash sublimated tumblers safely and preserve designs. Total Time: PT15M

1. Rinse the tumbler with cold or lukewarm water right after use.
2. Use mild dish soap and a soft sponge — no abrasive pads.
3. Scrub gently inside and outside to avoid scratching.
4. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.
5. Hand dry with a towel or let air dry completely.
6. If you use a dishwasher, stick to the top rack and avoid high-heat cycles.

Best Practices for Washing Sublimation Tumblers

• Hand Wash First: Whenever possible, hand washing is the safest way to protect your tumbler’s design.
• Skip Abrasives: Stay away from steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh scrubs that can scratch the coating.
• Temperature Control: Lukewarm water works best, too hot or too cold can stress the design or the tumbler’s coating.
• Dishwasher Use: If you must use one, stick to the top rack only and avoid heated drying cycles.
• Quick Drying: Dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots and extend the life of the design.
• Avoid Soaking: Don’t leave tumblers submerged in water for long periods, as it can weaken the protective layer.

Bonus: Tumbler Care:

For extra care, here’s what to do:

• Best practice: Hand wash with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or cloth. Dry right away with a towel to avoid water spots.
• Dishwasher safe? Yes, but keep it on the top rack with a gentle detergent, and skip high-heat drying. Bottom racks and heat cycles can damage prints.
• Avoid: Harsh chemicals, bleach, abrasive scrubbers, and extreme temperatures — they’ll wear down the design.
• Optional extra: A sublimation-safe coating spray can add protection against scratches and fading, but it’s not required.

Sublimation Ink Care

Proper care of sublimation ink is vital for consistent, high-quality prints. Follow these tips to ensure your ink stays in top condition:

• Storage: Keep ink bottles sealed and stored in a cool, dry place to prevent contamination and drying.
• Avoid Contamination: Always use clean tools and avoid touching the ink with bare hands to prevent introducing impurities.
• Prevent Drying: Regularly check ink levels and replace dried-out cartridges promptly to maintain print quality.

Extra Care & Storage for Sublimation Clothing

Want your sublimated clothes to stay sharp for years? Here’s how to give them some extra love:

• Handle gently: Don’t stretch or pull at the fabric, it can warp the design.
• Fold with care: Neatly fold instead of crumpling to avoid creases across the print.
• Skip the bleach & softeners: Both can weaken or dull the ink.
• Iron smart: If needed, flip inside out and use a low setting. Never iron directly over the print.
• Keep out of sunlight: Store in a cool, dry space away from direct light to prevent fading.
• Use breathable storage: Garment bags or cotton covers protect from dust and moisture without trapping heat.

Fabric Care Notes

Different fabrics respond to sublimation in their own way. Here are quick care tips for the most common cases:

Polyester Shirts

Polyester bonds with sublimation ink beautifully, but it’s heat sensitive. Wash in cold water with mild detergent and air dry or tumble dry low. If ironing, use a cloth barrier and low heat.

Cotton Blends

Cotton blends don’t lock in sublimation ink as strongly, so prints can fade faster. Stick to cold water, gentle washing, and avoid the dryer when possible. Air drying helps both the print and the fabric last longer.

Dark Fabrics

Sublimation alone won’t show well on dark materials, so these usually use sublimation HTV or a white base layer. Wash gently in cold water with mild detergent, and avoid high heat drying or ironing directly on the design.

Ironing and Post-Wash Care for Sublimation Clothing

To Iron or Not to Iron?

• Ironing Considerations: If your sublimated shirt needs ironing, use the lowest heat setting and place a cloth between the iron and the fabric to protect the design. Avoid direct contact between the iron and the print to prevent melting or damage.

Proper Storage to Prevent Sublimation Fading

• Storage Tips: Store sublimated items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive exposure to light and heat can lead to fading. For best results, keep the items in a breathable garment bag or on a hanger to prevent creases.