Do Water-Based Screen Prints Last? Why Print Room’s Quality Prints Are Made to Endure

When ordering custom screen-printed t-shirts, one common concern we hear is: "Will the print hold up over time, especially with water-based inks?" It’s a valid question—after all, no one wants to invest in merchandise that cracks, fades, or wears out after just a few washes.

At Print Room, we want to put your mind at ease. While water-based inks sometimes have a reputation for being less durable than plastisol inks, this perception is often based on poor practices or outdated equipment in the screen-printing industry. Here’s why our water-based prints not only last but often outshine competitors’ products in terms of longevity, vibrancy, and overall quality.

Why Water-Based Inks Are Different

Water-based inks penetrate the fabric, bonding directly to the garment’s fibres, rather than sitting on top of the material like plastisol inks. This creates a soft, breathable print that feels like part of the fabric.

Common Misconception: “Water-Based Inks Don’t Last”

This belief stems from poorly executed prints, which may occur if:

• The ink isn’t cured properly.
• Low-quality inks are used.
• The printing equipment is outdated.
  
  

At Print Room, we’ve tackled these challenges head-on with state-of-the-art equipment, premium inks, and expert techniques that deliver long-lasting prints.

Why Print Room’s Water-Based Prints Last Longer

1. Premium-Quality Inks

We use MagnaColours water-based inks, the same premium-quality inks trusted by global brands like Nike. These inks undergo rigorous testing to meet the highest standards of durability, ensuring that they:

• Resist cracking and peeling.
• Retain vibrant colours even after multiple washes.
• Maintain a smooth, soft finish over time.
  
  

2. State-of-the-Art Equipment

A key factor in the durability of water-based prints is proper curing. At Print Room, we use a forced air conveyor dryer that ensures your prints are cured to perfection. Here’s how it works:

• Even Curing Over Long Distances: Our dryer uses forced air over an extended distance, which allows the ink to dry evenly at the correct temperature and duration.

• Dedicated to Quality: We take the time to ensure every print is properly cured, allowing the ink to bond securely to the fabric for a long-lasting and durable finish.

This combination of premium inks and precise curing means your prints will not crack, peel, or fade prematurely.

3. Skilled Team

Our team brings years of expertise to every project, ensuring:

• Accurate ink application for vibrant, consistent prints.
• Attention to detail in setup, printing, and curing processes.
• Quality control checks at every stage to catch and resolve issues before your order is shipped.
  
  

How We Avoid the Industry’s Common Pitfalls

It’s no secret that poorly executed screen prints have given the industry a bad name. Common issues like cracked prints or faded designs often stem from shortcuts or low-quality materials. At Print Room, we address these issues head-on:

• Problem: Cracking prints due to improper curing.
  Solution: Our forced air dryer eliminates this issue by fully curing the ink, ensuring it bonds with the fabric.

• Problem: Fading prints due to cheap inks.
  Solution: We use only premium, tested inks that maintain their vibrancy over time.

• Problem: Prints peeling off after washing.
  Solution: Our meticulous printing and curing process ensures the ink becomes part of the fabric, not just a surface layer.
  
  

The Importance of Quality Blank Garments

Even the best inks and printing techniques won’t produce lasting results if the garment itself isn’t up to standard. We recommend using high-quality blank garments from trusted brands like:

• AS Colour: Known for their durable fabrics and consistent quality.
• Stanley/Stella: Renowned for their eco-friendly, premium organic cotton garments.
• Earth Positive: Perfect for sustainable and ethically made apparel with excellent printability.
• Colourplane: Luxury premium streetwear blanks

These garments are specifically designed to receive and hold ink effectively, ensuring your prints look great and last longer.

How to Maximise the Lifespan of Your Custom Prints

To further ensure your prints stay vibrant and intact, we recommend:

1. Following Washing Instructions: Wash garments inside out on a cold or gentle cycle to reduce wear on the print.
2. Avoiding Harsh Detergents: Use mild detergents and avoid bleach.
3. Air Drying When Possible: Heat from dryers can accelerate fabric and print wear over time.

Why Choose Print Room for Long-Lasting Prints?

At Print Room, we combine premium materials, state-of-the-art equipment, and expert craftsmanship to deliver custom prints that stand the test of time. When you choose us, you’re choosing:

• Durable Prints: Water-based prints that hold up to regular wear and washing.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Inks and methods that are better for the environment.
• Professional Expertise: A team dedicated to producing the highest quality results for your brand or project.

Ready to Create Merchandise That Lasts?

Whether you’re printing t-shirts, tote bags, or other custom merchandise, Print Room is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project, or request a free sample pack to see and feel the difference in our printing quality.

Let us show you why water-based prints done right are the superior choice for long-lasting, eco-friendly, and vibrant custom merchandise.