How to Wash Printed T-Shirts and Hoodies So the Print Lasts

Your GLUNS T-shirt or hoodie is meant to be worn loud, and you want that print to stay sharp for many symposiums to come. Good care makes a real difference. These simple habits work whether you wash by hand in a basin or use a machine.

ALWAYS CHECK THE CARE LABEL FIRST

Every garment is different, so the care label inside is your first guide. It tells you the safe water temperature, whether the item can be tumble dried and whether ironing is allowed. If the label and any general tip disagree, follow the label.

TURN IT INSIDE OUT

This is the single easiest habit for protecting a print. Turning garments inside out before washing means the printed side rubs less against other clothes, zips and the sides of the basin or drum.

WASHING BY HAND

Many Kenyan households hand-wash, and it can be very gentle on prints if done right:

• Use cool or lukewarm water, not hot.
• Dissolve detergent fully before adding the garment, so powder does not sit on the print.
• Soak briefly, then wash gently. Avoid scrubbing hard over the printed area or using a brush on it.
• Rinse well until the water runs clear.
• Squeeze, do not wring. Twisting stretches the fabric and can crack a print.

WASHING IN A MACHINE

• Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with a cool temperature.
• Wash with similar colours. Keep dark items apart from whites, especially for the first few washes.
• Avoid overloading so clothes can move freely.
• Skip bleach on printed items.
• Close zips and fasten buttons on other clothes in the load so they do not catch.

DRYING IN THE NAIROBI SUN

Line-drying is free and easy, but strong direct sunlight can fade colours over time.

• Dry inside out so the print faces away from the sun.
• Hang in shade or partial shade where possible.
• Hoodies can be laid flat or hung by the body rather than the hood, so they keep their shape.
• Bring items in once dry instead of leaving them out for days.

Only use a tumble dryer if the care label allows it, and choose low heat.

IRONING WITHOUT DAMAGE

• Never iron directly on the print.
• Iron the garment inside out, or place a clean cloth over the printed area.
• Use the heat setting shown on the care label.

STORING YOUR GEAR

• Fold T-shirts rather than hanging them for long periods, which can stretch the neckline.
• Fold hoodies and store them in a dry, airy place.
• Avoid folding sharply across the print if you can.

QUICK CARE CHECKLIST

1. Read the care label.
2. Turn inside out.
3. Wash cool and gentle.
4. Squeeze, do not wring.
5. Dry in the shade, inside out.
6. Never iron over the print.

With a little care, your favourite symposium pieces will be ready for the next event, the next reunion and every proud day in between. Need to add to your collection or replace a well-loved favourite? Browse official GLUNS apparel and check delivery details for your area.