Sublimation printing is in demand nowadays as it can be carried out on any item. You will wonder if sublimation is carried out on leather, wood, steel, and mugs. Sublimation prints impart vivid colors and elegance to these items.
But, over time, the sublimation print fades out and looks dull. Then the questions arise why it fades out after washing than becoming brighter? What are the effects of the environment on sublimation prints?
Suppose you are facing the same issue, which is frustrating as well. Keep Calm, as we will dig deep to find the root cause and solution to why the sublimation print fades after washing and cleaning.
What are the Reasons for Sublimation Print Fading?
Although many factors affect the sublimation print, like ink, washing frequency, sublimation temperature, and quality of fabrics. To keep the sublimation print from fading, we must understand the reasons behind it, as discussed below.
Low-Quality Sublimation Inks
The first important point in sublimation print is the selection of sublimation inks. Small manufacturers of sublimation ink use cheap and low-grade materials for sublimation ink manufacturing.
Will you waste your money on low-grade sublimation inks? NO. as such, ink doesn’t provide long-lasting sublimation prints and wah out after the second wash.
While purchasing the sublimation ink, keep one thing in mind: the protective coating over the sublimation print.
While applying the sublimation coating, follow the guidelines of time and temperature of sublimation printing provided by the manufacturers.
So, choose wisely the sublimation ink, and we advise you to go for the brands that provide durable coating and ensure the best results.
Low-Quality Transfer Papers
Transfer paper is the base of sublimation printing. It is where your image, photo, or vector will be printed. This will affect the overall outlook of the sublimation print after finishing.
The lower quality of transfer paper causes fading. The solvent ink used for the such paper will ruin the final product.
So, to have excellent results, you must increase the transfer papers’ caliber.
Washing the Object Frequently
All the sublimated objects are washable; the frequency of washing affects the color of the sublimation print. How washing affects the sublimation ink?
Frequent washing and low-quality cleansers weaken the bond between ink and sublimated object. In the case of fabric, the threads get loosened, and the bond breaks up. Due to this, the color of the sublimation print fades away.
Sun Ultraviolet (UV) Discoloration
UV light coming from the sun is detrimental to chemical compounds. It breaks the chemical bonds between the molecule of a particular chemical.
Many hobbyist sublimation needs to be aware of the UV light effect on sublimation prints. Sublimation ink is also a chemical compound. It has chemical bonds within the molecules and forms bonds with the item to be sublimated.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight on sublimation print breaks up the bonding between the sublimation ink and sublimated object. As a result, the color looks dull and fades.
So, it is advised to keep the sublimated object under shade.
Do Not Use Polymer Coating
The polymer coating is applied when you are working with fabrics. But don’t use it with hard materials like wood, metals, and ceramics, as these materials have polymer coating when they are at the finishing step.
Some advise layering of polymer coating, but there are better opinions than this as this excessive layering will take longer in drying of sublimation printing.
So, if you apply polymer coating on already coated material, the bond will be weak. This weak bond will also cause the fading of color and elimination of sublimation ink.
Inappropriate Temperature Settings
Temperature is one crucial parameter in sublimation printing that needs to be controlled with great care.
If a high temperature is applied, it will burn the fabrics and the sublimation ink. As a result, the color will fade away and doesn’t stay longer and wash out upon washing.
So, always use the proper temperature settings to avoid fading of sublimation color.
Washing Instructions to Avoid Sublimation Print Form Fading
If you are worried about fading color after washing, follow these instructions.
Wash by Hands
Washing fabrics with sublimation printing in the washing machine is risky as it can loosen the threads.
Handwashing such fabrics can keep them safe, rubbing fabric under control, unlike a washing machine.
Don’t Use Hot Water
Always use cold water for washing and avoid hot water. Cold water and drying under shade are the best combinations for sublimation printed clothes.
Don’t Use Bleach
A bleach and fabric softener degrade the sublimation print and increase fabric drying time. Bleach is the enemy of sublimation ink and imparts small dots in print.
Moderate Amount of Detergent
Before washing sublimated fabrics, make a solution of a small amount of detergent. Use only one to two spoons maximum.
Increasing the number of such cleansers will affect the quality of fabrics, and sublimation will fade away.
Ironing the Sublimated Fabric
Iron the sublimated fabrics before thoroughly drying. Or you can use a steam iron or steamer to make the material wrinkle-free.
Final Thoughts
Typically, the sublimation printed objects have a long life span. The fading of sublimation ink after washing is frustrating as it wastes time and money.
Follow the recommended guidelines and the right sublimation supplies to avoid such problems.
The above lines have discussed in detail why a sublimation print fades after washing. Carefully follow guidelines about washing and other factors so that you can enjoy better results.
Related Post: How to Bleach Shirt for Sublimation?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does sublimation ink fade after washing?
First and foremost, the reason behind fading of sublimation ink color from fabric is the non-friendly nature of sublimation printing. A shirt with a low amount of polyester in the material will retain less sublimation ink and fade away quickly.
Can the sublimation print be washed?
Sublimated fabrics always need special cleaning care. So, before washing, turn the shirt or other fabric inside out. Hand washing with mild and phosphorous-free detergent can lower the risk of fading of sublimation ink during washing.
Can a just sublimated shirt be washed?
Wait for the complete drying and bonding of sublimation ink with the fabric, then wash only the stain spots.
Washing a just sublimated shirt can ruin the design, and the sublimation ink will wash away. So at least wait 24 hours before the first wash of sublimated fabric.