Want to keep your old shirt looking good for years? Here’s a straightforward guide, in PT-PT, for washing, drying, storing, and preserving used or collectible items without damaging prints, badges, and labels. If these guidelines are not followed, we are not responsible for any damage caused during washing.
Before Washing: Quick Check
- Check the composition and care labels, if available.
- Confirm the condition of the print: flock, rubber, embroidery, or sublimation.
- Photograph the item beforehand, especially if it’s a collectible. It’s useful for comparison.
Washing
- Hand wash whenever possible, in cold water up to 30°C. Move the item gently.
- If using a machine, choose a delicate cycle, low spin, and turn the shirt inside out.
- Mild detergent, no bleach or fabric softener. Fabric softener can affect adhesives and flocking.
- For strong odors, soak in cold water with a bit of neutral vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse.
- Do not wring the shirt. Remove excess water by pressing between two towels.
Stains: Careful Treatment
- Always test in an inconspicuous area.
- Use diluted mild detergent and a soft brush. Do not scrub sponsorships vigorously.
- Deodorant stains: cold water solution with a bit of vinegar. Avoid harsh products.
Drying
- Dry in the shade, in a ventilated area. Direct sunlight can fade.
- Lay flat on a towel to prevent deformation. If hanging, use a wide hanger.
- No dryer. Heat damages adhesives and prints.
Ironing
- Avoid direct ironing on prints and flocking.
- If necessary, iron inside out, low temperature, with a cloth on top. Steam carefully.
Storage
- Store in a dry, cool place, away from moisture.
- Do not fold over numbers and sponsorships. Better to roll gently or use wide hangers.
- Avoid sealed plastic bags. The fabric needs to breathe to prevent mold.
- Air out items occasionally, in the shade.
Everyday Conservation
- Keep away from heat sources and harsh chemicals like perfumes applied directly.
- Perform periodic inspections of seams and fabric. Remove pills with an appropriate knit comb.
- Adjust care if you notice wear, bubbles, or fading.
Materials and Finishes: Specific Care
- Flock (velvety): very sensitive to heat. Never direct iron. Avoid friction.
- Rubber heat-applied: can crack with heat or folds. Store unrolled.
- Embroidery: more resistant, but can snag. Be careful with velcro contact.
- Sublimation: the design is part of the fabric. Better tolerates washing, but still prefers cold water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bleach, harsh stain remover, dryer, direct iron on logos, excessive fabric softener.
- Scrubbing prints, wringing the item, soaking for hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I always wash in the machine?
You can, but with a delicate cycle, cold water, low spin, and inside out. Hand washing is safer for old items.
Does vinegar damage the fabric?
Used sparingly and well-diluted, it helps with odors. Rinse afterward.
Can I use perfume on the shirt?
Avoid applying directly. Chemicals can stain and affect adhesives.
How to store for a long time?
Dry, cool place, no direct light. Rolled or on a wide hanger, with protection for numbers and sponsorships.
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