Why sublimated prints last
With screen printing or vinyl, the design is a layer on top of the fabric. Washing, stretching and rubbing slowly crack and lift that layer.
Sublimated dye is inside the polyester fibres. There is nothing on the surface to crack or peel, so the design lasts as long as the garment.
What can dull the colours
Sublimated colours can still lose some brightness through:
- Heat: very hot washes, tumble dryers and irons. Polyester softens with high heat, and dye can move.
- Harsh chemicals: bleach and strong stain removers.
- Long sun exposure: drying kits in strong direct sun every week will slowly fade any coloured fabric.
- Abrasion: sliding on artificial turf or rough ground wears the fabric surface.
How to wash team kits
- Turn shirts inside out. It protects the printed face from rubbing.
- Wash at 30 °C with similar colours.
- Use a mild detergent. No bleach, and avoid fabric softener, which can block the moisture-wicking fibres.
- Do not soak dark and light kits together.
- Line-dry in the shade. Skip the tumble dryer.
- Wash soon after matches. Mud and sweat left for days are harder to remove.
For clubs that wash kits centrally, a printed care card in the kit bag helps whoever does the laundry that week.
How long should a kit last?
With normal use and sensible washing, a well-made sublimated kit lasts several seasons. Most clubs replace kits because of a new design or sponsor before the print wears out.
We keep your approved design on file, so replacement shirts for new players match the originals. Read more about our sublimation sportswear.
Frequently asked questions
Can sublimated kits go in the dryer?
We advise against it. High heat can soften polyester and dull colours. Line-dry in the shade instead.
Can we iron sublimated shirts?
Polyester sportswear rarely needs ironing. If you must, use the lowest setting on the reverse side and never iron directly on the print with high heat.
Why do whites near a sublimated print look tinted?
Very hot washing or drying can cause some dye migration. Cool washes and line-drying prevent it.