How To: Preserve Art Prints on Your Apparel: Wild Pen Co. Clothing Care Tips

You’ve chosen something special.

Your new hoodie, tee, or sweatshirt isn’t just clothing—it’s art. Whether printed with Direct-to-Garment (DTG) technology or crafted through other methods, our designs are made to last. Many of our garments are made from cotton, and some of our hoodies and sweatshirts are eco-friendly fabric blends. Keeping them in top shape takes more than basic care. It takes intention.

This guide will help you preserve the quality of your Wild Pen Co. apparel and any other cherished pieces in your wardrobe.

1. Wash with Intention

Turn Inside Out: Protect the art by washing inside out. I learned this the hard way after my favorite design started fading.
Cold Water: Keeps colors bold and fabric strong - especially important for cotton garments.
Delicate Cycle: Gentle washes maintain the design’s integrity.
Mild Detergent: Simple and eco-friendly gets the job done.

2. Understand the Process

Why It Matters: Whether it’s DTG printing or another method, the design is often infused into the fabric, making it vibrant but also delicate. Without the right care, even detailed art can fade or crack over time. Your goal? Keep it looking fresh, just like the day you first wore it.

3. Dry with Purpose

Air Dry: Lay flat or hang. Let your art retain its shape. I always air dry my Wild Pen Co. pieces to keep them looking new.
Shade Over Sun: Prevent colors from fading by drying in the shade.
Low Heat Only: If you use a dryer, keep it on the lowest setting—this is especially important for our eco fabric blends.

4. Iron Thoughtfully

Inside Out: Iron inside out to protect the design.
Low Heat: Smooth out wrinkles without excessive heat.
Avoid Direct Contact: Iron around the design to preserve details.

5. Store with Care

Hang or Fold: Use padded hangers or fold carefully to maintain the shape. I’ve found that folding works best for keeping the designs sharp.
Cool, Dry Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to keep your apparel at its best.
Breathable Garment Bags: If covering, opt for breathable bags.

6. Handle Stains with Strategy

Oil Stains? Here’s How:
Cotton garments are particularly prone to oil stains, so quick action is key.
Blot: Act fast. Absorb, don’t rub.
Pre-Treat: Apply dish soap and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This trick saved one of my favorite tees from a coffee spill.
Wash: Cold water, delicate cycle. Double-check before drying.
Air Dry: Make sure the stain is gone before using heat, especially with cotton.

7. Elevate Your Embroidery Care

Hand Wash: For precise care of intricate stitching.
Cold Water, Delicate Cycle: If using a machine, keep it gentle and inside out.
Air Dry Flat: Avoid shrinkage and maintain form.
Low Heat: If you must use heat, keep it indirect.

More Than Just Care. It’s About Connection

Every time you take care of your Wild Pen Co. apparel, you’re not just maintaining its look. You’re preserving its story. 

Have your own care tips? Or a story about how you maintain your favorite pieces? Share them with us! Tag us on social media with #WildPenCoCare, and share how you make your style last.

When you’re ready for more, our latest wildlife-inspired designs are waiting. Explore our collections here and #CelebrateAllLifeWild with us.