As a t-shirt decorator, you know that sublimation printing can deliver bold, vibrant colors that seem to jump off the fabric. But what happens when that perfect print starts to fade after just a few washes?
If you’re asking yourself, “Why sublimation fades after washing?”, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the common causes behind sublimation fading and how you can fix (and prevent) it for good.
Why Sublimation Fades
1. You Might Be Using the Wrong Fabric
Sublimation isn’t a one-size-fits-all printing method — it’s specifically designed for polyester fabrics.
To get the best and most permanent results, your shirt should be:
- At least 65% polyester, or ideally
- 100% polyester
When you sublimate onto cotton or a fabric with too low of a polyester count, the ink can’t chemically bond to the fibers. Instead, it sits on the surface, making it highly vulnerable to fading after a few washes.
Pro Tip: Always check the garment tag before decorating. For vibrant, long-lasting results, go for high-poly blends or pure polyester t-shirts.
2. Heat Press Settings Are Critical
In sublimation, heat and time are everything. If the temperature is too low or the pressing time is too short, the ink won’t fully sublimate into the fibers, and that’s a recipe for fading.
Here’s the general sublimation heat press formula:
- Temperature: 380°F to 400°F (193°C to 204°C)
- Time: 45 to 60 seconds
- Pressure: Medium
Make sure your heat press is calibrated and reaching the correct temperature across the entire platen. A cold spot on your press could mean one side of your design fades faster than the other!
Pro Tip: Use a laser temperature gun to double-check your platen heat if you suspect uneven heating.
3. Sublimation Paper and Ink Quality Matter
Not all sublimation supplies are created equal. Using low-quality sublimation paper or ink can lead to poor color transfer and reduced bonding strength. Even if your heat and timing are perfect, bad materials will sabotage your results.
Here’s what you want:
- Reputable, high-release sublimation paper
- Professional-grade sublimation ink matched to your printer type
Cheap supplies might save you a few dollars upfront, but will cost you customer satisfaction (and reprints) down the road.
4. Proper Washing Instructions Are Essential
Even a perfectly sublimated shirt can fade if it’s washed improperly. Make sure your customers (and your production team) know the right way to care for sublimated apparel:
- Wash inside out
- Use cold water
- Choose mild detergents (no bleach or fabric softeners)
- Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
High heat from dryers, hot water, or harsh chemicals can weaken the bond between the sublimated ink and the polyester fibers over time.
Pro Tip: Include a care card or tag with your sublimated products! It’s a simple, professional touch that can drastically improve customer satisfaction.
5. Moisture Control During Pressing
Moisture is the hidden enemy of sublimation printing. If there’s too much moisture in the fabric or in the sublimation paper during pressing, it can cause:
- Blurry prints
- Uneven color
- Premature fading
Before applying your sublimation design, always pre-press the garment for 5–10 seconds to remove any moisture. It also flattens out wrinkles for a smoother transfer.
Quick Checklist to Prevent Sublimation Fading
Before you press your next shirt, run through this quick checklist:
- High polyester content fabric (65%+ recommended)
- Heat press at 380°F–400°F for 45–60 seconds
- Medium pressure applied evenly
- High-quality sublimation ink and paper
- Pre-press to remove moisture
- Clear washing and drying instructions were given to the customer
Get these basics right, and your sublimation prints will stay bright and sharp, wash after wash!
Look sharp, feel unstoppable. Our blank t-shirts are made to accent your shape and upgrade your everyday style—without the high-end markup.
Final Thoughts
Sublimation is an amazing tool for decorators who want bold, long-lasting prints — but it demands the right setup and technique.
If you notice your designs fading after washing, double-check your fabric, heat press settings, supplies, and post-print care.
Fixing just one small step can make a huge difference in your results! We hope this article on why sublimation fades after washing helps you fix your prints.
