When you invest in good-quality workwear, you want it to look professional, feel comfortable, and stay durable for as long as possible. Whether your uniform features DTF printing, embroidery, or a mix of both, the way you care for your garments directly impacts how long they last.
At Impressions Workwear, we specialise in supplying durable, high-performance branded clothing — and we want to help you protect that investment. Below are our top 5 expert tips to make your workwear last longer, reduce wear and tear, and keep your branding looking sharp.
These simple workwear care tips can easily be built into your daily laundry routine and make a big difference.
1. Turn Your Workwear Inside Out Before Washing
One of the easiest ways to extend the life of your workwear is to wash it inside out.
This reduces friction in the washing machine and protects decorated areas.
Why this matters:
- DTF prints are less likely to crack or fade when protected from rubbing.
- Embroidery threads retain their clean, smooth finish for longer.
- The outer fabric experiences less abrasion and remains looking newer.
This small step helps maintain both the quality of the garment and the clarity of your branding.
2. Wash at a Cool 30°C to Prevent Damage
Heat is the enemy of most decorated workwear. A gentle 30°C wash cycle is the safest and most effective way to clean your garments without compromising quality.
Benefits of washing workwear at 30°C:
- Prevents DTF prints from softening or warping
- Stops embroidery from shrinking, puckering or fading
- Protects the fibres of the garment, prolonging overall durability
- Uses less energy — better for the environment and your utility bills
Cool washes are one of the most important long-term workwear care habits.
3. Air Dry Your Workwear — Avoid the Tumble Dryer
Although convenient, the tumble dryer is one of the biggest causes of premature workwear damage. High heat and aggressive movement can lead to:
- Cracked or peeling DTF prints
- Flattened or distorted embroidery
- Shrinkage of the garment fabric
- Reduced elasticity and shape retention
Instead, allow your workwear to air dry naturally. Hang it up or lay it flat, and avoid direct sunlight on dark colours to prevent fading.
Air drying is a gentle method that significantly extends the lifespan of your uniforms.
4. Avoid Fabric Softener — It Damages Prints and Embroidery
Many people don’t realise that fabric softener can shorten the life of workwear.
Softeners coat fibres with a residue that interferes with print adhesion and weakens fabric structure.
Why you should skip softener:
- It can cause DTF prints to peel or lose vibrancy
- It coats embroidery threads, making them appear dull
- It reduces the garment’s breathability
- It breaks down technical fabrics more quickly
If you prefer softer garments, a small amount of white vinegar in the rinse cycle is a safe, natural alternative that doesn’t harm prints or stitching.
5. Never Iron Directly Over Logos or Printed Areas
Direct heat from an iron can instantly damage workwear decoration.
For DTF prints:
- Heat can melt, distort or stick the print to the iron
For embroidery:
- Pressing directly over stitching can flatten it and affect its shape
If ironing is necessary:
- Avoid decorated areas completely or
- Cover the print/embroidery with a cloth and use a cool setting
Always treat branded areas with extra care to keep your uniform looking professional.
Extra Workwear Care Tips for Embroidered Garments
Embroidery is incredibly durable, but it still benefits from correct care.
Keep your embroidery looking its best:
- Trim loose threads instead of pulling them
- Use mild detergents
- Avoid overloading the washing machine
- Store garments on hangers to maintain shape
These quick habits help stitched logos look cleaner and more defined over time.
Why Proper Workwear Care Matters
Good-quality workwear is an investment — in your team, your business, and your brand image.
Caring for your garments correctly helps:
- Extend the life of your uniform
- Keep your branding vibrant and high-quality
- Reduce replacement costs
- Maintain a professional look for your staff
- Support sustainability through longer garment use
With just a few simple steps, you can significantly improve the durability of your printed and embroidered workwear.
Looking for Durable, High-Quality Workwear?
At Impressions Workwear, we provide:
- Long-lasting DTF printing
- Professional-grade embroidery
- Quality workwear garments for every industry
- Friendly, expert advice on how to choose and care for your uniform
If you’re ready to upgrade your workwear or need guidance on the best garments for your business, we’re here to help