Storing Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers can be a bit of a science. With the rising popularity of DTF printing in the apparel and fashion industry, there's a need for accurate and practical information on how to store your personalized DTF transfers. In this article, we will dive deep into the specifics of how you can maximize the lifespan of your DTF transfers.
Click here to get more.
DTF transfers, like many other printing products, have a shelf life. Typically, when stored properly, DTF transfers can last between 6 months to a year. However, there are many variables that can affect this. Humidity, temperature, and exposure to light are key factors that can influence the longevity of the print.
Storage is not just about putting things away. With DTF transfers, Here are some different factors that you need to be cautious of.
Ink quality: The quality of the ink used in DTF transfers can affect their shelf life. It is best to use opened ink bottles within 3 months and sealed ink bottles within 12 months for best results.
Storage conditions: The environment in which DTF transfers are stored can affect their shelf life. DTF transfers should be kept in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures.
Exposure to moisture: DTF transfers can be damaged by exposure to moisture. It is recommended to use butcher's paper or parchment paper between transfers to avoid them sticking to each other and to absorb any moisture.
Exposure to sunlight: DTF transfers can also be damaged by exposure to sunlight. It is recommended to store them away from direct sunlight.
Exposure to dust: Dust can also affect the quality of DTF transfers. It is recommended to store them in airtight containers to avoid exposure to dust.
Print head lifespan: The lifespan of the print head used in DTF printing can also affect the quality of the transfers. It is recommended to replace the print head every 6-12 months for best results.
To maximize the shelf life of DTF transfers, you can follow these tips:
Temperature Control: Ideally, DTF transfers should be stored in a cool, dry place. A temperature between 65°F and 70°F (18°C to 21°C) is optimal.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the colors of the DTF transfers. Always store them in a dark place or a storage unit that doesn't allow light to penetrate.
Limit Moisture Exposure: Humidity can adversely affect the adhesive and the print quality. Keeping transfers in a place with low humidity is essential.
Proper storage doesn't require a huge investment, but there are some essentials:
Poly Bags or Sleeves: These provide an added layer of protection from dust and potential moisture.
Desiccants: These small packets absorb moisture. Placing them with your DTF transfers ensure they stay dry.
Cardboard Tubes or Flat Boxes: Rolling your DTF transfers and storing them in cardboard tubes can prevent creases. Alternatively, flat boxes can be used, ensuring the transfers aren't bent.
INKBANK contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
Storage Cabinets or Shelving: These keep your DTF transfers off the ground and organized. It's beneficial if these storage solutions are in a controlled environment, free from dramatic temperature or humidity swings.
Now that we have a better understanding of the details, here are some top tips to keep your DTF transfers in pristine condition:
DTF transfers should be stored in a temperature range of 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme temperatures, such as heat and cold, can damage the transfers. Heat can melt the adhesive, while cold can make the transfers brittle and cause them to crack. Learn more about DTF Transfer temperature.
To keep your DTF transfers organized and easily accessible during storage, consider these tips
Sort Them Out: Group your transfers based on type, size, color, or whatever method works best for you. This makes finding what you need faster.
Label Them: Add labels to your transfers, so you can identify them even in dim storage. You can use a label maker or simply write the transfer's name on paper and attach it.
Keep Them Safe: Store your transfers in a place that's cool and dry. This prevents them from getting damaged, like curling up or losing their color. Good storage spots include cabinets, drawers, or closets.
Choose a Suitable Storage System: There are many storage options available. Pick what suits your needs and budget, from plastic containers to file folders or even shoe boxes.
The ideal humidity range for storing DTF transfers is between 30% and 50%. DTF transfers may curl or warp if the humidity level is above 50%, while they may dry out and become brittle if the humidity level is below 30%.
DTF machines have certain requirements for the temperature and humidity of the workplace. As one of the consumables of garment printing machines, the direct to film ink quality directly determines the printing effect. Too high or too low temperature or too humid place for DTF machine will have a certain influence. So we must consider these issues when we choose the site. So, keeping the indoor temperature where the garment printing machine is located can improve the printing effect. And can extend the life of the DTF hot stamping machine.
Especially in summer, when the weather is hotter. Many DTF machine manufacturers will turn on the air conditioner when working. Because DTF printing machines emit heat when working. So air conditioners are commonly turned down a little bit, which is used to regulate the indoor temperature of the processing plant. But if the temperature is too low, it will also have a certain effect on the ink of the DTF hot stamping machine. Ink under the influence of temperature, the ink&#;s thinness will change, which is a physical phenomenon. But the change is the form, its essence will not change.
What is the storage temperature of DTF printing ink? SUBLICOOL suggests that the storage temperature of ink should be 10&#;-35&#; to avoid ink freezing and change. The smaller the printer nozzle, the higher the resolution; the smaller the nozzle, the higher the requirement for ink quality. Therefore, you should try to use the ink provided by the manufacturer of the DTF printer and not choose poor-quality ink.
1. The original ink is in a warm place so that it slowly warms up to return to its original state.
2. When used in a hurry, it can be externally warmed with boiling water.
3. It is recommended that you control the place where the DTF transfer printing machine is working at about 27 °C, to ensure the ink printing effect.
Before pouring the ink into the cartridge, it is recommended to shake the ink evenly. The role of shaking the ink is conducive to the sediment at the bottom of the ink thoroughly fused in the ink. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at SUBLICOOL!
Are you interested in learning more about dtf textile pigment ink? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!