Tag: Polyester fabric

  • Common Fabric Types in the POD Industry and How to Choose

    Common Fabric Types in the POD Industry and How to Choose

    In Print on Demand (POD) business, fabric is a core factor that determines the product’s quality, print outcome, and customer experience. A beautiful design can only truly succeed when printed on the right fabric, ensuring accurate colors, sharp print details, and a comfortable wearing experience. Choosing the right fabric not only helps sellers optimize production costs and reduce return rates but also enhances brand value and drives revenue growth. This article will help you understand the most common fabric types used in POD, their characteristics, and how to select the right material for each product line.

    Classifying Fabrics by Common Materials in POD

    In POD, fabrics are typically classified based on their fiber composition. Below are the most common fabric groups that every seller should understand.

    Classifying Fabrics by Common Materials in POD

    1. Cotton – The Most Popular Natural Material

    Cotton is the most widely used natural fiber and dominates the POD T-shirt market. Its softness, breathability, and superior moisture absorption make it an ideal choice for everyday fashion products.

    • 100% Cotton: This is the gold standard for Direct to Garment (DTG) printing. Water-based DTG ink penetrates deeply and bonds tightly with natural cotton fibers, resulting in highly detailed prints with vibrant colors and a soft, smooth feel — without adding bulkiness.
    • Organic Cotton: Grown without pesticides or harmful chemicals, organic cotton is the top choice for brands targeting health- and eco-conscious customers. Although it comes with a higher cost, it provides a strong branding advantage by aligning with sustainability values.

    Key Terms to Know:

    • Ring-spun Cotton: Cotton fibers are continuously twisted and thinned, creating longer, stronger strands. Fabrics made from ring-spun cotton are softer, smoother, and more durable than regular cotton.
    • Combed Cotton: A premium version of ring-spun cotton in which short fibers and impurities are completely removed before spinning. The result is an exceptionally soft, smooth fabric with no loose fibers, ideal for high-quality apparel.

    2. Polyester – High Durability, Ideal for Sublimation Printing

    Polyester is a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, well-known for its exceptional durability, wrinkle resistance, shrink resistance, and quick-drying properties. It is a dominant material in the sportswear industry and other products that require high colorfastness.

    • 100% Polyester: This fabric is the perfect surface for sublimation printing. Under high heat, sublimation ink transitions from a solid to a gas and bonds permanently with polyester molecules. This technique creates vibrant, full-coverage (all-over-print) designs that never fade, crack, or peel, and the print becomes completely undetectable to the touch.
    • Characteristics: Polyester fabric typically has a slightly shiny appearance and is less breathable than cotton, often feeling “hotter” when worn in humid weather conditions.

    3. Blended Fabric – A Balanced Combination of Cotton and Polyester

    Blended fabrics combine cotton and polyester to leverage the strengths of both fibers. This is a highly versatile and popular choice, offering a balance between comfort and performance.

    Common Ratios:

    • 50/50 (50% Cotton / 50% Polyester): A classic blend that provides the softness of cotton and the durability and wrinkle resistance of polyester. 50/50 fabric shrinks less than 100% cotton and maintains its shape better after multiple washes.
    • CVC (Chief Value Cotton – 60% Cotton / 40% Polyester): With a higher cotton content, CVC fabric retains a soft, breathable feel while being more durable and less prone to wrinkling than pure cotton.
    • Heather Fabric: This term refers to fabrics with a “salt and pepper” or mixed-color effect, created by weaving fibers of different colors together. Most heather fabrics are cotton/polyester blends.

    4. Tri-Blend – Premium Fabric for Fashion Apparel

    Tri-blend fabrics are made from a combination of three fibers: Cotton, Polyester, and Rayon. Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from wood cellulose, known for its incredible softness, smooth texture, and excellent drape.

    • Typical Composition: 50% Polyester, 25% Cotton, 25% Rayon.
    • Characteristics: Tri-blend fabric delivers an ultra-soft, lightweight, and stretchy feel, with a slightly heathered appearance that gives it a distinctive vintage style. It’s a premium choice for fashion-forward T-shirt lines.

    5. Organic Cotton – The Sustainable Trend

    Organic cotton is produced from cotton grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides, making it safe and environmentally friendly. It’s the ideal material for brands committed to green and sustainable fashion.

    Trend: Organic cotton is increasingly popular in markets like the U.S. and Europe, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable fashion products.

    Characteristics and Impact of Each Fabric Type on Print Quality

    Characteristics and Impact of Each Fabric Type on Print Quality

    Understanding the relationship between fabric material and printing technology is crucial. It determines whether the print will be sharp, vibrant, durable, and provide a great customer experience.

    Fabric Type

    Compatible Printing Technology

    Print Color Quality

    Print Durability

    Main Applications

    100% Cotton

    DTG, DTF, Screen Printing

    Accurate, sharp

    Good

    T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts

    Polyester

    Sublimation

    Vibrant, lively

    Very high

    Sportswear, blankets, pillows, tote bags

    Cotton + Polyester

    DTG, DTF

    Stable, colorfast

    High

    Hoodies, sweatshirts, budget-friendly T-shirts

    Tri-Blend

    DTG, DTF

    Light colors, slightly vintage

    Medium – High

    Fashion apparel, premium niche products

    Organic Cotton

    DTG, Screen Printing

    Sharp, accurate colors

    Excellent

    Eco-friendly products

    Applications of Fabric Types in POD Products

    In the Print on Demand (POD) business, each product type has its own requirements when it comes to fabric selection. Choosing the right fabric not only impacts print quality and product durability but also affects production costs, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

    POD sellers must understand the characteristics of each fabric type to ensure their products meet customer expectations while staying competitive in the market. Below is a detailed analysis of how different fabrics are applied to the most common POD product lines today.

    1. T-Shirts

    T-shirts are the core product for most POD sellers, often accounting for a large portion of their revenue. They require flexibility in fabric choice to cater to various customer segments and different marketplaces.

    100% Cotton:

    • Ideal for designs that require sharp, high-quality prints with accurate colors and excellent durability.
    • Preferred on marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, TikTok Shop, and Walmart, where customers value comfort and product quality.
    • Perfect for basic styles, mid-range, and premium T-shirt lines.

    50/50 Blend (Cotton + Polyester):

    • Balances cost and quality, helping sellers lower their base cost while maintaining comfort.
    • Prints are long-lasting and resistant to wrinkles or shrinkage after washing.
    • Suitable for competitive pricing campaigns, especially on TikTok Shop or Walmart.

    Tri-Blend (Cotton + Polyester + Rayon):

    • Best for premium fashion lines or niche markets.
    • Offers an ultra-soft, breathable, and luxurious feel with a premium style.
    • Produces slightly faded, vintage-style prints that stand out as unique and fashionable.

    Recommended Products:

    Pro Tips: For T-shirts, sellers should offer a variety of fabric options to serve different customer segments, from budget-friendly to premium. This approach helps maximize revenue potential while minimizing risks when expanding into new markets.

    Applications of Fabric Types in POD Products

    2. Hoodies and Sweatshirts

    Hoodies and sweatshirts are popular products during the colder seasons. They have higher order values compared to T-shirts and offer sellers better profit margins. Fabric choice plays a crucial role, impacting warmth, durability, and print quality.

    Cotton + Polyester (Blended Fabric):

    • The most common choice, offering a balance between softness and durability.
    • Resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage after washing, while maintaining clear, long-lasting prints.
    • Ideal for mass-market customers and marketplaces where competitive pricing is essential.

    100% Cotton:

    • A more premium option that provides superior comfort and excellent heat retention.
    • Commonly used for high-end products or niche premium markets.

    Recommended Products:

    • Gildan 18500: The most popular POD hoodie with affordable pricing and consistent quality.
    • Comfort Colors 1566: Premium hoodie with unique pigment-dyed vintage styling.

    Pro Tip: Use blended fabric for standard, mass-market hoodies and 100% cotton for premium product lines to offer a wide range of options for different customer needs.

    3. Tote Bags

    Tote bags (canvas bags) are a popular POD product, easy to sell, and perfect as gifts or complementary items in an online store. The fabric choice affects durability, weight, and print quality.

    Cotton Canvas:

    • Strong and durable, eco-friendly, and aligned with sustainable fashion trends.
    • Provides sharp, clear prints with a surface well-suited for custom designs.
    • Attracts environmentally conscious customers who value sustainability.

    Polyester:

    • More affordable, ideal for large-scale production.
    • Works perfectly with sublimation printing, delivering vibrant, colorfast results.

    Recommendation: Choose cotton canvas for fashion-forward products and polyester for competitive pricing campaigns or bulk giveaways.

    4. Sportswear

    Sportswear requires fabrics that are stretchy, breathable, and colorfast to withstand frequent movement and washing.

    100% Polyester:

    • The go-to choice for sublimation printing, ensuring sharp, flawless prints that never crack or peel.
    • Excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping wearers dry during intense activities.

    Stretch and Flexibility:

    • Essential for comfort and freedom of movement, especially in fitted, performance-oriented apparel.

    Common Applications:

    • Jerseys, gym wear, running shirts, and team sports uniforms.

    5. Other Products

    In addition to T-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags, other POD products also require the right fabric selection to ensure vibrant prints and long-lasting durability.

    Blankets and Pillows:

    • Polyester is the top choice due to its excellent color retention, producing vivid prints that don’t crack or peel.
    • The soft fabric surface provides a comfortable and pleasant user experience.

    Small Accessories (Hats, Scarves, Pillow Covers, Laptop Sleeves):

    • Can be made with cotton or blended fabrics, depending on the specific needs and printing technology used.
    • Choosing the right fabric helps optimize production costs while maintaining quality and durability.

    Choosing the Right Fabric for POD Products

    Selecting the right fabric is a crucial business strategy in the POD industry. This decision directly impacts product quality, pricing, profit margins, and customer satisfaction. The fabric selection process should be based on four key factors: target customers, sales platform, printing technology, and production costs.

    Choosing the Right Fabric for POD Products

    1. Based on Target Customers

    Each customer group has different needs and expectations, so sellers must clearly segment their audience to choose the most suitable fabric.

    General Customers:

    • Prioritize 100% cotton or blended fabrics (cotton + polyester).
    • Focus on balancing quality and affordability, making products accessible and easier to sell in high volumes.
    • Ideal for basic products like T-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags.

    Premium Customers:

    • Choose Tri-Blend or Organic Cotton to enhance user experience and elevate brand positioning.
    • These materials deliver a premium feel and cater to demands for sustainable and luxury fashion.

    Pro Tip: Sellers should diversify their product catalog with both standard and premium lines to serve a wide range of customer segments.

    2. Based on Sales Platforms

    Different e-commerce platforms have their own characteristics, requiring flexible fabric choices.

    • Amazon & Etsy:
      • Product quality and customer reviews are critical.
      • Prioritize 100% cotton or Tri-Blend to deliver excellent user experience and minimize return rates.
    • TikTok Shop:
      • Highly price-competitive environment where base cost optimization is essential.
      • Use blended fabrics or standard cotton to maintain profitability while ensuring consistent quality.
    • Walmart:
      • Requires products to meet strict quality standards and compliance regulations.
      • Choose premium cotton or high-quality blends.

    3. Based on Printing Technology

    Fabric type and printing technology are closely linked. Choosing the wrong fabric can result in blurry, cracked, or faded prints.

    • DTG / DTF:
      • Best suited for 100% cotton or blended fabrics.
      • Produces sharp, accurate, and long-lasting prints.
    • Sublimation:
      • 100% polyester is mandatory for vibrant prints that bond firmly to the fabric fibers.
    • Screen Printing:
      • Highly versatile and works on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends.

    4. Considering Production Costs

    Sellers must compare base cost to retail price to ensure profitability. Below are approximate cost ranges:

    Fabric Type

    Base Cost (Reference)

    Best For

    100% Cotton

    $5.50 – $7.00

    Amazon, Etsy, Shopify

    Cotton + Polyester

    $4.90 – $6.50

    TikTok Shop, Walmart

    Polyester

    $4.50 – $6.00

    Sportswear, promotional gifts

    Tri-Blend

    $8.00 – $12.00

    Premium lines, niche products

    In the Print on Demand (POD) business, selecting the right fabric not only affects product quality but also plays a decisive role in customer experience and your profit margin. If your goal is to optimize production costs and easily run high-volume sales campaigns on platforms like Amazon, Walmart, or TikTok Shop, standard fabrics such as 100% cotton or blended fabrics are the most practical choices. On the other hand, if you aim to build a premium brand targeting customers who value soft textures, modern fits, and sustainability, consider Tri-Blend or organic cotton to elevate the value of your products.

    For personalized advice on fabric selection, suitable products, and effective POD sales strategies, contact FlashShip at (+84) 943 024 337 or visit seller.FlashShip.net for prompt and dedicated support.

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  • Does Polyester Fabric Shrink? Complete Guide for POD Sellers

    Does Polyester Fabric Shrink? Complete Guide for POD Sellers

    In the Print on Demand (POD) industry, choosing the right fabric plays a crucial role in creating high-quality, durable products that meet customer expectations. Among the most popular materials today is polyester, widely used in producing t-shirts, jackets, tote bags, hats, and many other POD products. However, many sellers often wonder: “Does polyester fabric shrink?” Will the fabric change in size after washing or drying, and could this affect the customer experience?

    In this article, FlashShip will provide a comprehensive explanation of everything you need to know about polyester shrinkage, along with practical care tips and expert recommendations to help POD sellers optimize product quality.

    What is Polyester?

    What is Polyester?

    Polyester is not a natural fiber like cotton or wool. Instead, it is a synthetic polymer created through a chemical reaction between an acid and an alcohol. Specifically, the most commonly used type of polyester in the apparel industry is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), yes, it’s from the same “family” as the plastic used to make soda bottles!

    Through a process called polymerization, small molecules (monomers) are bonded together to form long, stable chains (polymers). These chains are then melted, spun into fibers, and heat-set at specific temperatures and tension levels to achieve durability and shape retention.

    Key Features of Polyester

    It’s no coincidence that polyester and polyester-blend fabrics dominate the Print on Demand (POD) market. Its unique properties make it almost tailor-made for custom printing and apparel production:

    • Exceptional Durability: Polyester fibers are incredibly strong, resistant to abrasion, wrinkles, and deformation, far outperforming cotton in shape retention. A polyester t-shirt can withstand countless washes without stretching, sagging, or losing its form. This ensures your customers receive products that look great and last longer.
    • Outstanding Color Retention: Thanks to its chemical structure, polyester absorbs dye exceptionally well, resulting in vibrant, sharp, and long-lasting colors. Even after multiple washes, polyester fabrics tend to retain their original brightness better than natural fibers.
    • The Perfect Canvas for Sublimation Printing: This is polyester’s biggest advantage. Sublimation printing uses high heat to transform solid ink into gas, allowing it to infuse directly into the fibers of polyester fabric. The result is a permanent, crack-free, and peel-proof print that feels soft to the touch and retains its color indefinitely. Unlike 100% cotton, polyester delivers unmatched results for sublimation designs.
    • Excellent Wrinkle Resistance: For POD sellers, first impressions matter. You want products to reach your customers looking neat and professional. Polyester’s natural wrinkle resistance reduces the risk of garments becoming creased during packaging and shipping, helping you deliver products in perfect condition.
    • Quick-Drying & Moisture-Resistant: Polyester is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it absorbs very little water and dries quickly. This makes it an ideal choice for activewear, sports apparel, and outdoor gear, where fast-drying performance is highly valued.
    • Cost-Effective Production: Compared to premium natural fabrics, polyester generally has lower manufacturing costs, making it an affordable yet high-quality option for POD sellers looking to optimize profit margins.

    By understanding these features, you’ll not only make smarter decisions when choosing polyester-based products but also market them more effectively, highlighting the exact benefits your customers will love.

    Does Polyester Fabric Shrink?

    This is one of the most common concerns among POD sellers, especially when selling t-shirts, hoodies, or activewear to the U.S. and European markets. The good news is that polyester rarely shrinks during washing or drying, thanks to its synthetic fiber structure and unique chemical properties.

    Does Polyester Fabric Shrink?

    1. Why Polyester Hardly Shrinks?

    Polyester is a man-made fiber derived from petroleum and processed through advanced heat-treatment techniques. As a result, it offers several advantages over natural fibers like cotton:

    • High Thermal Stability: Polyester fibers are heat-set during production, “locking” their shape from the start. This allows garments to maintain their original fit even after multiple washes.
    • Low Water Absorption: Unlike cotton, polyester is hydrophobic and absorbs very little water. Its fibers don’t swell or contract during washing, which helps prevent deformation.
    • Advanced Heat Processing: During manufacturing, polyester is treated at high temperatures to stabilize its structure, significantly minimizing the chances of shrinkage.
    • Shrinkage Levels of Polyester
      • 100% Polyester – Almost no shrinkage after washing.
      • High-Temperature Drying – Polyester may shrink less than 2%, which is significantly lower than cotton, which can shrink 5% to 10%.

    Thanks to these properties, polyester is a top choice for POD sellers when producing t-shirts, hoodies, sportswear, and activewear. It’s especially ideal for demanding markets like the U.S. and Europe, where customers value durability, shape retention, and premium quality.

    2. Polyester vs. Cotton: Shrinkage Comparison

    Criteria

    Polyester

    Cotton

    Shrinkage

    Almost no shrinkage

    Shrinks easily by 3–5% after the first wash

    Water Absorption

    Low

    High

    Shape Retention

    Excellent

    Prone to deformation when tumble-dried

    Color Fastness

    High

    Fades faster

    POD Applications

    Best for sublimation and blended printing

    Ideal for DTG and screen printing

    3. When Can Polyester Shrink? Key Scenarios POD Sellers Should Know

    Although polyester is well-known for its excellent shape retention and minimal shrinkage, there are still a few exceptions where the fabric may deform. Understanding these factors helps POD sellers better manage product quality, especially when selling t-shirts, hoodies, and activewear in demanding markets like the U.S.

    Scenarios That May Cause Polyester to Shrink

    • Washing in Hot Water (>60°C / 140°F): Excessive heat can cause polyester fibers to expand, resulting in a loss of shape and reduced durability.
    • High-Temperature Drying: While shrinkage is typically minimal, polyester can still shrink 1–2% when tumble-dried at high heat.
    • Poly-Cotton Blends: The higher the cotton content, the greater the risk of shrinkage, since cotton naturally contracts when washed and dried.

    Tips to Prevent Shrinkage

    To maintain product quality and ensure long-lasting durability, POD sellers should:

    • Recommend washing garments below 40°C (104°F)
    • Advise customers to avoid high-heat drying
    • Choose high-quality polyester fabrics when designing POD products

    Following these practices ensures your products retain their shape, stay vibrant, and remain durable, helping you deliver a better customer experience and reduce return risks.

    In addition, learn more about “do Gildan sweatshirts shrink“, the factors that affect it, and how to minimize this issue.

    How to Wash and Care for Polyester to Prevent Shrinkage

    To help your POD products maintain their shape, vibrant colors, and overall quality, sellers should provide customers with clear care instructions. Proper washing and drying methods not only enhance the customer experience but also reduce return rates.

    How to Wash and Care for Polyester to Prevent Shrinkage

    1. Proper Washing Guidelines

    • Water Temperature – The Key Factor: Always recommend washing in cold or warm water (up to 40°C / 104°F). Avoid hot water at all costs, as it can damage fibers and cause prints to fade. Cold water is the safest choice for both the fabric and printed designs.
    • Detergent Selection: Polyester isn’t picky when it comes to detergents. Regular laundry detergents work perfectly fine. However, advise customers to avoid using harsh bleaching agents or strong chemicals, which may weaken fibers over time.
    • Wash Cycle: Use the Normal or Gentle cycle for best results. Aggressive washing modes are unnecessary and may cause unwanted fabric stress.
    • Pro Tip – Turn Garments Inside Out: Encourage customers to turn garments inside out before washing. This minimizes friction between printed areas and other clothes, keeping designs sharp, vibrant, and long-lasting.

    2. Drying Best Practices

    This is where most polyester damage, and potential shrinkage, happens. Educating customers about proper drying techniques is crucial.

    • Best Method – Air Drying: Recommend air drying whenever possible. Since polyester is naturally moisture-resistant, it dries quickly. Hanging garments in the shade will also help preserve colors and extend fabric lifespan.
    • Using a Dryer – Safe Settings: If a dryer is necessary, advise selecting Low Heat (Tumble Dry Low) or Air Fluff / No Heat settings. These modes protect both the fabric and the printed designs.
    • The #1 Enemy – High Heat: Warn customers to NEVER use high heat drying. Excessive temperatures can cause polyester fibers to shrink, wrinkle, or even become permanently damaged.

    3. Proper Ironing Tips

    Polyester is naturally wrinkle-resistant, but if ironing is necessary, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

    • Use the lowest heat setting or select the “Synthetics” mode on the iron.
    • Never iron directly on printed designs. Instead, turn the garment inside out to iron from the reverse side, or place a thin protective cloth over the print to avoid damage.

    By providing clear instructions like these, you empower your customers to keep their products looking brand new while also protecting your brand’s reputation.

    What About Polyester Blends?

    In the POD industry, sellers often use poly-cotton blends or tri-blends (polyester + cotton + rayon) to achieve a softer, more breathable feel. However, the shrinkage level of these fabrics largely depends on the cotton content.

    What About Polyester Blends?

    1. Poly-Cotton (Cotton Blends) – The Most Common Choice

    • Composition: Typically 50% Polyester / 50% Cotton or 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton (CVC – Chief Value Cotton).
    • Characteristics: Combines the softness and breathability of cotton with the durability and wrinkle resistance of polyester. This makes it one of the most popular fabric choices for POD t-shirts.
    • Shrinkage Behavior: YES, it will shrink. The main culprit is the cotton fibers. Poly-cotton fabrics shrink more than 100% polyester, but less than 100% cotton.
    • Shrinkage Level: A 50/50 poly-cotton shirt can shrink around 3–5% in size if not washed and dried properly.

    Tips for POD Sellers

    • Prioritize “Pre-Shrunk” Blanks
      Look for blank garment suppliers that clearly label their products as “pre-shrunk”. This means the fabric has been washed during production to minimize post-purchase shrinkage.
    • Communicate Clearly with Customers
      Always include fabric composition details in your product descriptions and inform customers about potential slight shrinkage. Transparency helps manage expectations and improve customer satisfaction.
      Example:
      “Material: 50/50 cotton/poly blend. This fabric may shrink slightly after the first wash. Please refer to the size chart and follow the care instructions for best results.”

    2. Tri-Blends (Three-Fabric Blends): The Premium Choice

    • Composition: Typically a mix of polyester, cotton, and rayon.
    • Characteristics: Extremely soft, lightweight, and features an elegant drape that gives garments a stylish, vintage-inspired look.
    • Shrinkage Behavior: YES, and it requires extra care. While rayon contributes to the luxurious feel of the fabric, it is also sensitive to heat and water, making it prone to shrinkage.
    • Seller Tip: For tri-blend fabrics, it’s crucial to instruct customers to wash in cold water and air-dry. Emphasize that this is a premium fabric that needs special care to maintain its quality and shape.

    3. Poly-Spandex (Spandex/Lycra Blends): Ideal for Stretchable Products

    • Composition: Polyester combined with a small percentage of spandex (usually 5–10%).
    • Characteristics: Offers excellent stretch and flexibility, making it perfect for sportswear, leggings, and swimwear.
    • Shrinkage Behavior: High heat is the worst enemy of spandex. Excessive temperatures can cause not only shrinkage but also permanent damage to the elastic fibers, resulting in a loss of stretch and fabric “breakdown.”
    • Seller Tip: Care for poly-spandex blends the same way you would 100% polyester, avoid high heat at all costs to preserve both elasticity and longevity.

    4. Quick Shrinkage Comparison Chart

    Fabric Type

    Shrinkage Potential

    Key Care Instructions

    100% Polyester

    Very Low (<1%)

    Avoid high-heat drying and high-temperature ironing.

    Poly-Cotton Blend

    Medium (3–5%)

    Wash in cold or warm water, tumble dry low, and prioritize “pre-shrunk” blanks.

    Tri-Blend

    Medium (3–5%)

    Cold wash only and air dry for best results.

    Poly-Spandex

    Low

    Strictly avoid high heat to maintain fabric elasticity.

    100% Cotton

    High (5–10%)

    Wash in cold water, tumble dry low, and choose “pre-shrunk” garments whenever possible.

    Tips for Choosing Polyester Clothing

    Tips for Choosing Polyester Clothing

    Understanding polyester and its variations will help you make smarter business decisions.

    • Always Order Samples: This is a golden rule. Never rely entirely on the supplier’s description. Order samples, feel the fabric, and most importantly, TEST THE SHRINKAGE YOURSELF. Wash and dry the sample shirt using both the “standard” method and a “stress test” (hot wash, high-heat drying) to see how it reacts.
    • Read the Technical Specifications Carefully: Don’t judge solely based on images. Always look for and review the product details: exact fiber composition, fabric weight (GSM/oz), and whether the fabric has been pre-shrunk.
    • Choose the Right Fabric for the Right Printing Method
      • Sublimation Printing → Requires fabric with a high polyester content (at least 65%, ideally 100%) and light colors (white, light gray, pastel shades).
      • DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing → Works best on 100% cotton. On poly-cotton blends, colors may not be as vibrant as on pure cotton. For 100% polyester, special pre-treatment is needed, which not every printing facility can handle.
      • PET/DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printing → More versatile; works well on polyester, cotton, and blends. However, the print texture will feel different compared to Sublimation or DTG.
    • Provide an Accurate and Detailed Size Chart: Include a comprehensive size chart for each product. If you know a poly-cotton item is prone to slight shrinkage, add a small note under the chart, for example:
      “This product contains cotton and may shrink slightly. If you’re between two sizes, consider choosing the larger size.”
    • Turn Knowledge into a Sales Advantage
      Be transparent with your customers and use product knowledge to build trust:
      • For 100% polyester shirts: “Crafted from premium 100% polyester, designed to resist wrinkles, prevent shrinkage, and maintain vibrant colors wash after wash.”
      • For poly-cotton blends: “A perfect blend of 50% soft cotton and 50% durable polyester, offering maximum comfort while maintaining excellent shape retention.”

    In the Print-on-Demand (POD) business, understanding the properties of polyester fabric helps sellers choose the right material, ensuring product quality, enhancing customer experience, and maximizing profits. If you need a durable fabric that holds its shape well, resists wrinkles, delivers sharp prints, and sells easily on marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, Walmart, or TikTok Shop, 100% polyester is an excellent option to consider.

    On the other hand, if you aim to build a premium brand with softer, more breathable, and comfortable products, poly-cotton blends or tri-blends will better meet your customers’ needs.

    For personalized consultation on fabric selection and effective POD sales strategies, contact FlashShip via our hotline (+84) 943 024 337 or visit our website at seller.FlashShip.net for immediate support.

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