Wash Tee Print Cracking: Causes and Fixes

Quick answer

Print cracking on graphic tees is usually caused by heat, friction, or improper washing. To fix mild cracking, iron the print from the inside out on low heat. To prevent it, wash inside out in cold water and skip the dryer. If the print is flaking or peeling, it cannot be repaired and should be replaced.

Why do graphic tees crack?

Heat and friction are the main culprits. Direct heat from a dryer or iron can cause the ink to become brittle and crack. Friction from washing with rough items or drying on high heat can also wear down the print. Additionally, low-quality prints are more prone to cracking, but even high-quality prints can crack if not cared for properly.

How to fix cracked t-shirt print

If the print is cracked but not peeling, you can often minimize the appearance. Turn the shirt inside out and iron on low heat with no steam. The heat can help the ink re-adhere slightly. For a more permanent fix, you can use a heat press or a piece of parchment paper and an iron to apply heat and pressure. However, this only works for minor cracks and may not restore the print completely.

• Iron inside out on low heat
• Use parchment paper over the print if ironing directly
• Avoid steam

Prevent print cracking

Prevention is easier than repair. Always wash your graphic tees inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softener and bleach. Tumble dry on low or hang dry. If you must iron, do it inside out and avoid steam. Also, avoid ironing directly on the print.

• Wash inside out in cold water
• Tumble dry low or hang dry
• Iron inside out on low heat

When to stop and replace

If the print is flaking, peeling, or has large missing areas, it cannot be fixed. In that case, it's best to replace the shirt. Continuing to wear or wash a peeling print can make the damage worse and leave ink flakes on other clothes.

Diagnosis

• Symptom: Small cracks in the print: The print has fine lines or cracks but is not peeling. Try ironing inside out on low heat to minimize appearance.
• Symptom: Print is flaking or peeling: Pieces of the print are coming off, or it feels sticky. Cannot be fixed; replace the shirt.
• Symptom: Print is completely gone in areas: Large sections of the print are missing. Replace the shirt.

Product facts

• THE BLACK SWORDSMAN WASH TEE: Heavyweight pre-shrunk 100% cotton, oversized/baggy fit, washed dark gray. 4" embroidery on front; back has layered detailing with 6" embroidery, 3" embroidery, and direct-to-garment print. The direct-to-garment print on the back is more prone to cracking if washed with heat; follow care instructions to preserve it.
• GAMBLER WASH TEE: Heavyweight pre-shrunk 100% cotton, oversized/baggy fit, acid washed purple. 3" embroidered design with direct-to-garment print on front, and direct-to-garment print on back. The direct-to-garment prints on both sides require gentle washing to prevent cracking.