Foil print designs add a degree of sophistication and glamour to clothes. This elevates their style and allows them to stand out from the crowd. It can be great for branding and personalisation. In addition, if you use recyclable foils it is good for the environment too.
Whether it’s an intricate foil pattern on a dress or a shimmering logo on a T-shirt, clothing with foiling print needs particular care. It will ensure that the designs stay beautiful and vibrant after washing. It also reduces the risk of issues like peeling. What we are going to do here is explain the best practices for washing garments with foil prints. With the advice, you can keep your wardrobe looking better for longer.
Check the label
The manufacturer will likely have left specific instructions for how to care for the garments. Many foil prints can put up with gentle washing. Others though will need special precautions or care to preserve the appearance. The label should say the recommended detergents and washing temperature. There may be extra instructions you must follow as well, such as best ways to dry them.
An inside out approach
One thing you will need to do is turn the garments inside out. This can help you protect the foil print from friction and abrasion during the wash cycle. It’s an easy step that aids in minimising contact between the foil and separate surfaces or fabrics. It lowers the risk of premature wear or damage. By turning your clothes inside out, you produce a barrier that defends the print from possible harm. As a result, it’ll retain its brilliance and shine wash after wash. It is wise for all kinds of foil, including recyclable foils.
Choose the right washing method
You need to wash the garments in a way that preserves the fabric and design. Hand washing in cold water with a mild detergent tends to be the safest choice. It lowers agitation and also stops excessive peeling or fading with the foil.
For those using washing machines, choose the delicate cycle and utilise a laundry bag. This will keep the clothes safe from rubbing against other objects. Don’t wash garments with foil print together with rough fabrics. The same goes for anything with velcro closures or zippers as they can damage or snag the foil.
Use mild detergents
As we said before, you should use a mild detergent. Choose one free of harsh abrasives, bleach, or chemicals to preserve the foil’s vibrancy. Harsh detergents have the capacity to strip your foil of its lustre, resulting in it peeling or fading over time. The design’s integrity will be compromised. Be careful, whether you use recyclable foils or standard ones.
Wash in cold water
This will be gentler on the fabrics and will stop colour fading or shrinkage. So, it’s the perfect choice for washing clothes with foil print. Avoid hot water since it can result in the foil cracking or warping. By using cold water, you can increase the lifespan of your clothes.
Air drying flat
Following washing, you need to handle the garments carefully to avoid damaging the foil. Don’t wring them as such action can result in the foil peeling or cracking. Instead, you need to gently squeeze excess water out and lay your clothing flat on a clean towel to air dry. It’s often best not to hang clothes with foil print. The water’s weight can result in the foil sagging or stretching. Air drying your clothes flat lets the print dry evenly. This enables it to maintain its integrity and shape.
Never iron directly onto your print
Some foils do come with heat resistant properties. However, it is best to play it safe and not iron on the print. Rather, you need to turn the clothes inside out and make use of a low-heat setting to iron the reverse side. Or, you can use a pressing cloth. This will safeguard the foil from heat damage and allow your garments to keep their lustre. By avoiding direct heat exposure, your foil won’t melt or warp, so it can remain intact and smooth.
Work with our experienced team and use recyclable foils
At Foiling Services, we know that the world of foils is a complex one. Our team understands how to handle all kinds of foil variants. This includes the greener products as well as more standard options. We’ll produce the best results for you.
So, if you’re interested in recyclable foils or other options, feel free to contact us. We can advise you about using them for different projects, aftercare, and more.