A favorite graphic tee deserves a little care—especially when the artwork is the reason you wear it. Whether your shirt features architectural drawings, a city landmark, or a bold illustration, your laundry routine can help preserve its appearance.
The best starting point is to wash graphic tees inside out in cold water, use a gentle cycle, and air dry. Always check the care instructions for your particular shirt before washing.
How to Wash Graphic Tees in the Washing Machine
1. Turn the shirt inside out
Turn your tee inside out before putting it in the washer. This helps reduce direct rubbing against the printed surface during washing.
Wash with similar colors, and avoid mixing delicate printed shirts with rough items or clothing with exposed zippers.
2. Choose cold water
Select a cold wash setting. High temperatures can contribute to shrinking and damage the appearance of some prints.
For a GUBÉ WEAR tee, follow the temperature listed on its product page and care label. Different garments can have different requirements.
3. Use mild detergent and a gentle cycle
Use a mild detergent and the amount recommended for your load. Avoid bleach unless the specific garment instructions allow it.
Choose a gentle cycle to reduce agitation. A heavily soiled shirt may need separate stain treatment, but avoid aggressively scrubbing the artwork.
4. Air dry when possible
After washing, gently reshape the shirt and let it air dry. Lay it flat or use a drying rack, keeping it away from strong direct sunlight.
If the care instructions permit tumble drying, choose low heat. Avoid high heat and unnecessary drying time.
How to Help Prevent the Print From Cracking
A care routine can reduce avoidable wear, but it cannot guarantee that a print will never crack or fade.
To help protect your graphic tee:
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Wash it inside out.
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Choose cold water and gentle washing.
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Avoid bleach and high dryer heat.
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Do not stretch or scrub the printed area.
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Never place a hot iron directly on the graphic.
If ironing is permitted, follow the garment’s instructions and keep the iron away from the printed surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put graphic tees in the washing machine?
Yes, many graphic tees can be machine washed. Check the shirt’s care instructions, then use the recommended temperature and cycle.
Should you wash graphic tees inside out?
Yes. Turning the shirt inside out helps protect the artwork from direct friction during washing.
Does hot water ruin graphic tees?
Not every print reacts the same way, but hot water can increase the risk of shrinkage and print deterioration. Cold water is a better default when the care instructions recommend it.
Can you put graphic tees in the dryer?
Some allow low-heat tumble drying. Others recommend air drying. Follow the instructions for your particular garment rather than assuming all graphic tees need the same treatment.
Can washing repair an already cracked print?
No. Gentle care may help limit further wear, but washing will not restore damaged artwork.
Care for the Architecture You Wear
Architectural graphics invite a closer look—from the outline of a concrete tower to the fine lines of a blueprint. Treat those details with care each time you wash.
Explore GUBÉ WEAR’s architectural graphic tees and check each product’s care instructions to keep your favorite design in rotation.