How to Get a Stain Out of a Sweatshirt?
A well-loved custom sweatshirt holds a special place in any wardrobe. It is the trusted companion for quiet Sundays, post-workout relaxation, late-night drives, and impromptu video calls among many other sweatshirt benefits. Whether oversized and comfortable or sleek and fitted, a quality custom-printed sweatshirt is more than just clothing; it feels like a second skin.
However, that is why stains can feel so personal. Whether it is a grease mark from a favourite meal or an unexpected ink spill, damage to your go-to sweatshirt can be frustrating.
This article offers more than simple stain removal tips. It is a complete care guide for your sweatshirts. From tackling stubborn messes and preserving softness to experimenting with tie-dye and knowing when to replace a worn piece, we cover it all.
If you are ready to protect your wardrobe staple, let us begin.
Grease stains are particularly persistent, they tend to absorb quickly and cling to fabric fibres. But with the right tools and technique, you can restore your sweatshirt to its original state.
What You’ll Need:
- Dish soap (preferably grease-cutting, like Dawn or Palmolive)
- Baking soda (optional, for tougher stains)
- A soft toothbrush or cloth
- Warm water
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Blot the Stain
If the stain is fresh, use a paper towel to blot gently. Avoid rubbing, which pushes the grease deeper into the fabric.
Step 2: Apply Dish Soap
Place a drop of dish soap directly on the stain and gently work it in using your fingers or a soft toothbrush. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: Optional – Add Baking Soda
For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda over the dish soap. It helps draw out the grease and adds a mild abrasive effect.
Step 4: Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse the area with warm water, checking the progress. Repeat the process if necessary.
Step 5: Wash Normally
Launder the sweatshirt using a warm cycle. Do not place it in the dryer until the stain is completely gone, as heat can set it permanently.
Quick Tip:
Avoid the dryer until the stain is fully removed. Heat will lock in the stain and make it much harder to treat later.
How to Get Ink Out of Sweatshirt
Ink stains are notoriously difficult to remove, but they’re not impossible to tackle with the right approach.
What You’ll Need:
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or hand sanitiser
- Cotton balls or a clean cloth
- Cold water
- Mild laundry detergent
Ink Removal Instructions:
Step 1: Test Before Applying
Apply a small amount of alcohol on an inconspicuous part of the sweatshirt to ensure it won’t damage or discolor the fabric.
Step 2: Dab the Stain
Use a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol to blot the ink gently. Avoid rubbing. The ink should begin to transfer to the cotton.
Step 3: Rinse and Repeat
Rinse the stained area with cold water. If the stain remains, reapply alcohol and continue blotting.
Step 4: Launder Cold
Wash the garment using a cold cycle with laundry detergent. Air dry to check the final result.
Additional Tip:
While hairspray was once a popular ink remover, modern formulas no longer contain sufficient alcohol. Stick with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer for the best outcome.
How to Tie Dye Sweatshirt
Sometimes, a stain isn’t a setback, it’s an opportunity. When traditional stain removal won’t cut it, or when a well-loved sweatshirt simply needs a fresh look, tie-dye offers a vibrant, creative way to revive and personalize your garment. Whether you’re leaning into a colorful comeback or just craving something new, tie-dye can turn an ordinary sweatshirt into a statement piece. To get started, gather the following supplies:
- A white or light-coloured custom sweatshirt (ideally 100% cotton for best dye absorption)
- A tie-dye kit, which typically includes dye bottles, gloves, and rubber bands
- Plastic sheeting or trash bags to protect your workspace
- Zip-lock bags or plastic wrap for setting and curing the dye
There’s no wrong way to tie dye, but each method gives a different aesthetic. Here are a few classic approaches:
1.Classic Spiral
Lay your sweatshirt flat on a protected surface. Pinch the center and begin twisting it into a spiral. Once fully twisted, secure with rubber bands to create pie-like segments. This method results in a bold, circular burst of color.
2.Crumple Method
Scrunch the sweatshirt into a loose, random mound. Fasten it with multiple rubber bands to hold the shape. Expect a more abstract, cloudy or watercolor-style finish.
3.Striped Pattern
Fold the sweatshirt accordion-style, either vertically or horizontally. Apply rubber bands at consistent intervals to segment the folds. This technique produces clear, bold lines across the garment.
Feel free to get creative, mix techniques, dye only part of the garment, or experiment with color blocking. Tie-dye is equal parts art and play.
With your design prepped, it’s time to add color. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Apply the dye generously to each section, taking care to saturate the folds thoroughly. Flip the sweatshirt and repeat the process on the reverse side. For multi-color designs, plan your color placement in advance to avoid muddy results.
Pro Tip: The more saturated the fabric, the more vivid your final results will be. Light application will create softer, pastel tones.
Once the dye is applied, wrap the sweatshirt in plastic wrap or place it in a zip-lock bag to keep it moist while the dye sets. Let it sit at room temperature for 6–8 hours, or overnight for more intense color. Rinse the sweatshirt thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Wash it separately in cold water using a mild detergent to remove any residual dye.
After the first solo wash, your tie-dyed sweatshirt is ready to wear and safe to launder with other items.
Tie-dye isn’t just a trend, it’s a sustainable way to extend the life of your favorite clothing while expressing your personal style. Whether you’re masking a stain or simply reinventing a look, this method lets you breathe new life into old threads with minimal effort and maximum impact.
So don’t toss that sweatshirt just yet. Grab some dye, get creative, and make it yours all over again.
How to Keep Sweatshirts Soft
Repeated washing can sometimes leave your favorite custom sweatshirts feeling stiff, scratchy, or worn out. But with the right care routine, you can preserve their original softness and comfort for the long haul. Here are a few practical tips to help you maintain the cozy feel of your sweatshirts without compromising their longevity.
- First, always turn your sweatshirt inside out before placing it in the washing machine. This small but important step helps reduce direct friction on the outer surface of the fabric, minimizing pilling and wear while keeping the visible side looking fresh.
- Next, opt for cold water when washing. Hot water can be harsh on cotton and cotton-blend fabrics, often leading to shrinkage and stiffness. Cold water, on the other hand, is gentler and better at preserving the integrity of the fibers. It also helps prevent colors from fading too quickly.
- Choose a gentle detergent that is free from strong chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Harsh detergents can break down fabric fibers over time and contribute to that rough texture. A mild, liquid detergent is typically the best choice for preserving softness while still effectively cleaning your garments.
- When it comes to drying, limiting the use of a tumble dryer is key. High heat can stiffen fabrics and cause unnecessary stress on the fibers. Air drying is ideal for maintaining the sweatshirt’s softness and shape. If you do use a dryer, select a low-heat or delicate setting and consider adding a dryer sheet to help reduce static and keep the fabric feeling smooth.
- Another useful trick is to add white vinegar during the rinse cycle. Pouring in about half a cup of distilled white vinegar helps to dissolve any leftover detergent residue that might cling to the fibers and cause them to feel stiff. It also naturally softens fabric without leaving any strong odor behind.
- Finally, avoid overwashing your sweatshirts. Unless they are heavily soiled or sweaty, wearing them a few times between washes can actually help preserve their softness and structure.
- By integrating these thoughtful steps into your laundry routine, you can keep your sweatshirts soft, cozy, and wearable for years to come. Taking a little extra care makes a noticeable difference in both the look and feel of your favorite pieces.
Where to Buy Sweatshirts
If your current customized sweatshirt is beyond saving or you’re ready to customize something new, FastPrintStar is an excellent destination for high-quality, custom sweatshirts. It does not matter what style you require, FastPrintStar offers a wide range of options tailored to your preferences. Available options include the classic Custom Crew Neck Sweatshirts that are ideal for personal designs, quotes, team logos, or artistic graphics. Or you can do the Custom Zip-Up Sweatshirts that are versatile enough for layering. Another option available for you is the Custom Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt which is stylish enough to give you a structured alternative that transitions seamlessly from casual wear to more polished environments like remote meetings. What sets us apart is beyond what we offer, we give you fast turnaround time and a discounted price on bulk orders that you can not find anywhere else.
Conclusion
Your favorite custom-made sweatshirt likely holds more than just warmth, it carries memories. From quiet mornings and spontaneous adventures to creative breakthroughs and personal milestones, it’s been with you through it all.
So don’t let a stain define its future. With the right care, your sweatshirt can last for years. And when it’s time for something new, make it personal, something that fits your story just as well as it fits your style.
Because in the end, a sweatshirt isn’t just about comfort, it’s about confidence, creativity, and consistency. Treat it well, and it’ll do the same for you.
