Pressing & Apparel Care Instructions
DTF Transfer Pressing Instructions
Follow these step-by-step pressing instructions for the best results from your Outta PHX DTF transfers. Covers heat press application, regular iron application, and washing and care instructions to maximize the life of every print.
Recommended Heat Press Settings
Every heat press performs differently. These are recommended starting points — slight adjustments may be needed based on your specific equipment, garment weight, and fabric blend.
Pre-Press the Garment
Before placing your transfer, pre-press the blank garment for 5 seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles. A flat, dry surface ensures the transfer sits evenly and bonds correctly.
Position the Transfer
Place the DTF transfer onto the garment in your desired location — print side down. Cover the transfer completely with either a Teflon sheet or parchment paper before pressing. Do not press without a cover sheet.
- Teflon sheet (reusable — preferred)
- Parchment paper (single use)
Press the Transfer
Apply firm pressure and heat press for 10–15 seconds at the appropriate temperature for your fabric type. Hold firm and even pressure across the full design area.
Peel the Film
Remove the cover sheet and peel the transfer film. DTF transfers can be peeled hot (immediately after pressing) or cold (after the garment cools completely). Either method works — choose based on your preference and the transfer type.
Final Press
Place the Teflon sheet or parchment paper back over the design and press again for 5–6 seconds. This final press improves adhesion, sets the ink, and gives the print a cleaner, more durable finish.
Pre-Iron the Garment
Iron the blank garment first to remove all wrinkles and moisture. A smooth, dry surface is essential for even adhesion when using a household iron.
Position the Transfer
Place the DTF transfer on the garment — print side down — in your desired location. Cover fully with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet before applying heat. Never iron directly on the transfer film.
Apply Heat
Press firmly with the iron for 15 seconds per section until the full design area has been covered. Apply even, firm downward pressure — avoid sliding or dragging the iron across the design, which can shift the transfer.
Cool & Peel
Allow the transfer to cool completely before peeling the film when using an iron. Unlike a heat press, an iron does not generate consistent enough pressure for hot peeling. Let it cool fully to avoid lifting.
Final Press
Cover the design again with parchment paper and apply one final firm press across the entire design — holding for 10–15 seconds per section. This sets the adhesive and improves the durability of iron-applied transfers.
Washing & Care Instructions
Following proper care instructions extends the life of your DTF prints significantly. These guidelines apply to all garments with DTF transfers applied.
Always wash garments inside out to protect the print from friction and abrasion during washing.
Use cold water only. Hot water can break down the transfer adhesive and cause premature cracking or peeling.
Use a gentle, mild detergent. Avoid bleach, OxiClean, fabric softeners, and whitening agents — all can degrade DTF prints over time.
Tumble dry on low heat or hang dry for best results. High heat drying is the most common cause of DTF transfer failure.
Never place an iron directly on the printed design area. Always use a Teflon sheet or parchment paper as a barrier if ironing the garment after washing.
Allow the transfer to fully cure for at least 24 hours after pressing before the first wash. This improves long-term adhesion and durability.
Outta PHX Print Shop Tips
A few extra things we've learned from running thousands of DTF transfers through production:
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