When it comes to garment prints, the longevity of your designs is important for users. Especially for custom t-shirts, hats or other products, the durability of garment prints determines customer satisfaction. Customer satisfaction is another factor that determines the quality of the printing company. At this point, the durability of DTF transfers comes to the fore.
DTF transfer is a popular method used in garment printing. This printing technique determines how long your designs will remain vibrant and high quality. In this blog post, we will explore the durability of DTF transfers in detail.
Is DTF Transfer a Durable Printing Technique?
DTF transfers can be durable when meticulously produced with high quality materials and applied correctly. This durability varies according to the quality of the transfer paper or film, the properties of the ink used, and the fabric applied. It even varies depending on the washing and drying techniques applied.
DTF transfers made with high quality materials can be long-lasting when properly applied on a suitable cloth. These transfers can resist fading, cracking and peeling and retain their quality for a long time. Moreover, these quality transfers offer tremendous color vibrancy, resolution and detail, enhancing their visual impact.
How to Test the Durability of a DTF Print?
There are various methods available to test the durability of DTF transfers. These tests are used to assess the durability of the transfers in terms of wear and tear and longevity. Below is information on the methods for testing the durability of a DTF transfer:
- Scrub Test:
A commonly used method to measure the durability of a transfer is the rub test. This test is performed by rubbing the transfer with a piece of cloth. With this test, it is possible to evaluate how durable the transfer is by simulating wear and tear conditions.
- Wash Test:
The wash test is used to evaluate the performance of the transfer on the garment. The garment is washed and dried repeatedly.
- Accelerated Aging Tests:
Some manufacturers use accelerated aging tests to test the transfers' ability to withstand long-term exposure. These tests evaluate the long-term performance of the product by exposing the transfers to extreme heat, humidity and UV radiation.
Is DTF Printing Ink Permanent?
DTF ink is not completely permanent like other inks. It can degrade or fade over time due to exposure to sunlight, washing and various environmental factors. However, the durability of DTF ink can vary depending on the quality of the ink, the printing process and the care of the printed product.
When used correctly, DTF ink is highly durable and resistant to fading. For the longevity of DTF printed products, it is important to wash them in cold water and avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach and softeners.
How Long Does DTF Transfer Last?
With the right care and under the right conditions, a quality DTF transfer can last longer than the garment it is applied to. When it comes to DTF durability, we are talking in years, not weeks or months. With regular use and standard wash and dry processes, a DTF print can usually last between 50 and 100 washes.
However, this can vary depending on several factors. For example, a sports jersey that is frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions may wear out faster than a promotional T-shirt that is worn less often at indoor events.
Is DTF Transfer More Durable Than Vinyl?
In terms of durability, DTF (Direct-to-Film) transfers and vinyl have unique advantages and disadvantages. Generally, vinyl is considered to be more durable than DTF transfers for outdoor use. Although vinyl is preferred for outdoor use, both DTF transfers and vinyl are long-lasting and robust on indoor wear.
