Best Way to Store DTF Transfers
DTF transfers are great – there's no denying that. It produces high-quality prints for a variety of materials for your business. However, once you have printed your design, it is essential to store it properly. Otherwise, you are looking at a thousand-dollar gang sheet dtf waste.
We have found the best way to store DTF transfers that will keep them safe and organized and add creativity to your crafting space. No more wrinkled or misplaced transfers or wasted time trying to find the right design amidst a sea of clutter.
Let's look at the best proven and tested ways to store DTF transfers without further ado.
Best Ways to Store DTF transfers
1. Flat File Cabinets with Silica Packets
Flat file cabinets provide a safe and organized way to store your prints, ensuring they remain pristine for years. Plus, using this method to store DTF transfers, you can arrange DTF gang sheets systematically because the furniture often has multiple drawers.
Now, here's the thing: Flat file cabinets are often made with metal or wood – but that doesn't mean the furniture is safe from moisture and mold. To avoid both factors, put silica packets inside the cabinet to absorb moisture and prevent mold or mildew.
Important: Make sure the silica packets are placed in a way that they do not directly touch the prints.
2. Plastic Airtight Containers with Parchment Paper
Plastic airtight containers offer an ideal environment for storing DTF transfers. These containers are designed to seal tightly, preventing air and moisture from entering. This is essential because exposure to air and moisture can cause the adhesive on the transfers to weaken or degrade over time. And trust us, that’s one of the many things you should avoid for a gang sheet DTF!
You can further protect your DTF transfers using parchment paper to make matters more interesting. This tool can act as a barrier and prevent the DTF transfers from sticking together if placed in a plastic container. It also helps to maintain the shape and integrity of the transfers, ensuring that they are ready for use whenever you need them.
Note: You don’t need a high-quality, expensive parchment paper.
3. Resealable bags
Resealable bags are designed with a unique closure mechanism that allows you to open and close the bag quickly whenever necessary. This makes accessing your DTF transfers a breeze and ensures that they stay safe and secure when not in use.
One thing we like about resealable bags is that they are made from clear plastic, allowing you to quickly and easily identify the contents without opening each bag individually. Plus, they're cheap too!
Factors to consider when choosing storage options for DTF prints
The quality of DTF prints might be the most important thing for many people in the industry. So, choosing the right storage might be crucial – especially if there are several factors you need to consider to ensure the longevity and value of a DTF transfer or gang sheet.
Light exposure – Light can cause fading and discoloration of prints over time. Although choosing an opaque storage option with UV-blocking properties sounds expensive, try to place the storage solution of your choice indirectly to the sun.
Temperature and humidity – Extreme temperatures and high humidity can damage your prints. And just like ensuring it's indirect to sunlight, try to provide a stable environment with controlled temperature and humidity levels when selecting a storage solution.
Acid-free materials – There are many acid-free boxes or archival folders that can prevent acid migration, ensuring the preservation of your DTF prints.
Protection from dust and moisture – Dust and moisture can cause smudging, staining, and deterioration of your prints. If you don’t want that, you can opt for sealed containers or resealable bags, keeping your prints safe and pristine.
Proper handling – Always handle your prints with clean hands and avoid touching the surface directly to prevent smudging or transferring oils onto the print. Use gloves or hold prints by the edges to minimize contact.
How long can DTF transfers be stored?
When it comes to the longevity of DTF transfers, the general recommendation is to store them for up to six months to a year.
Now, before you start panicking and throwing out every transfer you own that's been hanging around for longer than that, let's take a closer look. It's important to note that this recommended timeframe is just that – a recommendation.
DTF transfers can still be used beyond this period, but their quality may deteriorate over time.
