You’ve spent time and money making your branded merchandise with custom embroidery, so ensure it lasts for your customers with accurate care instructions. Give these tips for preserving custom embroidered garments.

How to Preserve Custom Embroidery

1. Washing Machine

To machine-wash an embroidered garment, set the unit to the delicate cycle with cold water. If necessary, add mild detergent and non-chlorine bleach. Remove the item promptly from the washer and dry it on a normal heat setting. Don’t leave wet items in the washer for extended periods or in a pile of laundry since the colors may bleed, fade, or run.

2. Other Washing Methods

You may hand-wash your embroidered item if preferred. Use a liquid soap made for delicates and allow the garment to soak for 15 to 20 minutes in cool water, then rinse it gently. Blot excess water with a towel, then hang the item to dry or use a dryer. Don’t twist or wring it out.

3. Special Instructions for Red Embroidery

If the embroidery consists of a majority of red thread, test the dye before washing and drying. Wet a cotton swab in water, then rub it gently over the red threads. If color transfers to the swab, wash the garment by hand in cold water first, then rinse repeatedly until the water is clear. The garment should be safe to dry after this process.

4. Ironing

For best results, iron the embroidered item inside out between two pieces of cloth—pillowcases or clean dust cloths work well. Don’t wet the embroidery first or use the steam or spray setting on your iron. Avoid pressing the embroidered area with the iron, which may flatten the design and cause the color to bleed.

Make custom embroidered items for your business with the help of Honolulu Shirt Shop. Since 1984, they’ve offered embroidery and screen printing with perfect ink matching to complement brands or logos. One-time orders or contract services are available. Call (808) 847-0831 to talk about your design, or visit the website to see a gallery of projects.