How to Wash Graphic Tees and Hoodies So the Print Lasts

Every True Red Co. piece is printed on demand and made to be kept. A few simple habits will keep the graphic sharp and the fabric soft for years.

Washing

  • Turn it inside out. This protects the print from rubbing against other clothes and the drum.
  • Use cold water on a gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water fades color and stresses the print.
  • Use a mild detergent, and skip bleach and fabric softener, which can break down printed inks.
  • Wash with similar colors, and zip any zippers so they don’t snag the print.

Drying

  • Hang dry or lay flat whenever you can — it’s the best way to prevent shrinking and cracking.
  • If you use a dryer, choose low heat and take the item out while it’s still slightly damp.

Ironing and storing

  • Never iron directly on the print. If needed, iron inside out on low heat.
  • Don’t dry clean printed pieces.
  • Fold heavyweight hoodies and sweatshirts instead of hanging them, so the shoulders don’t stretch.

Garment-dyed pieces

Garment-dyed items like our Garment-Dyed Heavyweight Tee — Washed Series are dyed after they’re sewn, which gives each one its lived-in character. They can release a little color in the first few washes, so wash them separately or with like colors at first.

Outerwear

For jackets like the Discovery Puffer Jacket or the Before They Named The Land Down Jacket, follow the care label — down and water-resistant shells need special handling.

Treat your pieces well and they’ll carry the story for a long time. Shop all designs.