Precautions for storing printed jersey fabric

Storage Precautions for Printed Jersey Fabric: Key Guidelines for Moisture Prevention, Fading Prevention, and Deformation Prevention

Printed jersey fabric is renowned for its softness, breathability, and rich colors, making it a popular high-quality material for T-shirts, loungewear, and sportswear.

However, many businesses and individuals often experience mold, fading, sticking, or deformation during storage due to improper environment and methods.

To maintain the good quality of printed jersey fabric, it is essential to master scientific storage methods. This article will explain in detail the precautions for storing printed jersey fabric and the correct maintenance methods.

I. Understanding the Basic Characteristics of Printed Jersey Fabric

Printed jersey fabric is a single-sided knitted fabric, often made of pure cotton, polyester-cotton blends, cotton-spandex blends, or bamboo fiber.

It has advantages such as moisture absorption and breathability, good elasticity, and vibrant colors, but it is also relatively sensitive to environmental changes.

The printed layer, in particular, is easily affected by humidity, temperature, and light. Improper storage can easily lead to:

fading or sticking of the printed pattern;

mold and yellowing of the fabric;

curling or deformation of the fabric edges;

decreased elasticity or a stiff feel.

Therefore, extra care must be taken to store printed jersey fabric in a way that protects it from moisture, sunlight, pressure, and contamination.

II. Maintaining dryness and ventilation is paramount.

Printed jersey fabric is highly susceptible to moisture. The humidity of the storage environment should be controlled between 50% and 65%.

Excessive humidity will cause the fibers to absorb water and swell, leading to mold or the printed layers sticking together.

It is recommended to store the fabric in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse, with moisture-proof mats or wooden pallets on the floor to prevent the fabric rolls from directly contacting the ground.

During the rainy season or in humid environments like those in southern regions, dehumidifiers and desiccants can be used to maintain dry air.

III. Avoid Direct Sunlight and High Temperatures

Strong sunlight can cause the printing pigments or dye molecules to decompose, leading to gradual fading of the colors.

At the same time, high temperatures can cause fiber shrinkage and decreased elasticity.

Therefore, the storage area should be kept cool and away from windows, heaters, or heat sources.

It is recommended to control the temperature between 15℃ and 25℃, which can prevent deformation and extend the color life of the print.

IV. Proper Stacking and Packaging Methods

Printed jersey fabric is generally stored in rolls. When stacking, it should be kept neat and stable to prevent deformation under heavy pressure.

The rolls can be placed vertically or horizontally, but the height should not exceed 1.5 meters. Excessive pressure on the bottom rolls can cause creases and curling edges, affecting the cutting results.

For thin or highly elastic printed jersey fabrics, paper tubes can be used for rolling, and the rolls should be wrapped in dustproof bags to prevent moisture, dust accumulation, or soiling.

When choosing packaging materials, completely sealed plastic bags should be avoided as they can easily generate moisture due to poor air circulation.

We recommend using breathable non-woven fabric bags or microporous PE bags, and placing a small amount of desiccant inside the bag to prevent moisture.

V. Keep away from pollution and chemicals

Printed jersey fabric easily absorbs odors and contaminants.

When storing, avoid placing it in the same space as items containing inks, dyes, solvents, rubber products, etc.

These substances may release chemical gases, causing discoloration of the fabric or adhesion reactions in the printing layer.

In addition, rolls of fabric of different colors should be stored separately to prevent color bleeding. If they must be mixed, use white separating paper or non-woven fabric to separate them.

VI. Prevent insect infestation and mold damage

Pure cotton and bamboo fiber printed jersey fabrics are susceptible to insect infestation or mold.

To prevent this, place anti-mold sheets, desiccants, or a small amount of mothballs in warehouse corners or on shelves (be careful not to let them come into direct contact with the fabric).

Also, maintain a clean environment, regularly cleaning dust and garbage to prevent bacterial growth.

VII. Regular Inspection and Turning of Fabric Rolls

During long-term storage, printed jersey fabric is prone to creases or curling if it is constantly subjected to pressure in the same direction.

It is recommended to inspect and turn the fabric rolls every 2 to 3 weeks.

Inspections should include checking for moisture, unusual odors, whether the print is sticking together, and whether the color has changed.

If problems are found, ventilate and dry the fabric immediately or replace the packaging to prevent further damage.

VIII. Control Storage Time and Avoid Long-Term Stockpiling

Printed jersey fabric should not be stored for extended periods, especially when it is unset or unsealed.

The generally recommended optimal storage period is within 6 months.

If this period is exceeded, the fabric's hand feel, elasticity, and colorfastness should be retested to confirm that it still meets usage standards.

For seasonal inventory fabrics, a "first-in, first-out" (FIFO) management method can be adopted to prevent older fabrics from affecting quality.

IX. Record Management for Easy Traceability

Each batch of printed jersey fabric should be recorded with its serial number, batch number, date, and specifications upon receipt.

This not only facilitates management and outbound shipments but also helps track the fabric's origin and quality.

Especially for custom-printed fabrics, different printing processes and dye systems may have different storage requirements; recording this information prevents misuse or mixing.

X. Conclusion

Storing printed jersey fabrics may seem simple, but it is actually a crucial factor determining the fabric's quality and lifespan.

Keeping it dry and well-ventilated, avoiding light and moisture, keeping it away from pollution, and stacking it properly are the four key points for maintaining the fabric's smoothness and vibrant colors in the long term.

For manufacturers and fabric distributors, scientific storage methods not only reduce losses but also strongly guarantee product quality and reputation.