How to care for your streetwear
Your favorite tee, hoodie or knit deserves a care routine that suits the piece. Start with the instructions sewn into that garment—not a washing rule for the whole brand.
How should I wash a graphic tee?
Follow the tee’s care label for the wash cycle and temperature. Where the instructions allow it, turn the tee inside out to limit rubbing against the print, wash with similar colors and avoid an overloaded machine. Do not assume a graphic can tolerate bleach or direct ironing just because the shirt is cotton.
Can I put my hoodies and tees in the dryer?
Only if the label permits it, and only at the permitted heat setting. If it says not to tumble dry, use the specified air-drying method. Drying flat and hanging to dry are different instructions; follow the one on your item. Avoid using extra heat to rush a favorite piece dry.
How do I stop graphics from cracking or fading?
Minimize unnecessary friction and heat, and follow any print-specific instructions. Turn the garment inside out when appropriate, avoid scrubbing the graphic, and do not iron directly over a print unless the maker explicitly permits it. Care can reduce avoidable damage, but it cannot guarantee that a print will never age.
Should I wash knitwear the same way as a cotton tee?
No. Check whether the knit allows machine washing, hand washing or requires professional cleaning. Follow its drying instructions and support its shape while wet. Fold heavy knitwear for storage rather than letting its weight pull on the shoulders of a hanger.
What about jackets with coatings, leather or special trims?
Use the instructions for that exact jacket. A waterproof shell, waxed fabric or leather-trimmed piece may need a different process from a sweatshirt. If the label is missing or unclear, contact the maker or a cleaner experienced with the material before treating it.
What do the care-label symbols mean?
The wash tub covers washing, the triangle covers bleaching, the square covers drying, the iron covers ironing and the circle covers professional cleaning. A crossed-out symbol means that process is not permitted. Check the complete symbol—including dots, bars and written instructions—before choosing a setting.
How should I store my clothes?
Put garments away clean and completely dry. Keep them away from damp conditions and prolonged direct sunlight. Fold heavy knits, avoid crushing embellished pieces and check stored clothing periodically. Keep original packaging separately if it would crease, compress or trap moisture around the garment.
For selling later, read how to preserve resale value. For fit, see our measurement guide.
Care-label reference
GINETEX’s care-symbol guide explains how to read textile-care labels. The garment’s own instructions take priority over this general guide. Reviewed October 30, 2026.
Explore the pieces
graphic tees · hoodies and sweatshirts · knitwear. Check each listing for current availability, condition and size information.