Spent your hard-earned IP on that new 2026 Worlds hoodie, only to see the print crack after three washes? You're not alone. Proper league of legends merch care can extend the life of your favorite tees and hoodies by years. Whether you're a collector or just want to keep your go-to Jinx tee looking fresh, this guide covers the specific techniques that work for printed game apparel.
Understanding the Materials in League of Legends Apparel
League of Legends merch comes in a variety of fabrics. Most t-shirts are 100% cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, while hoodies often use a heavier 80/20 cotton-poly mix. The print method matters, too. Direct-to-garment (DTG) prints are common on newer designs and sit flush with the fabric, while screen-printed logos (like the classic Summoner's Rift crest) sit on top. Knowing what you're working with is the first step to preserving your gear.
Why Fabric Composition Matters
Cotton is breathable but shrinks easily in hot water. Polyester resists shrinking but can trap odors. Blends offer a balance. For example, the 2026 Ahri hoodie uses a pre-shrunk cotton-poly blend that holds shape well when washed cold.
Print Type and Care
DTG prints are more delicate when wet but durable once set. Screen prints feel thicker and can crack if you use fabric softener - the coating builds up and weakens the ink bond. Always check the care tag; those symbols tell you the exact print method used.
Washing Your League of Legends T-Shirts and Hoodies
Washing is where most damage happens. Follow these steps to keep colors vibrant and prints intact.
Step 1: Turn Inside Out
Before tossing your merch in the machine, turn every garment inside out. This protects the printed surface from abrasive contact with other clothes and the drum. I've seen prints last twice as long on inside-out washed tees.
Step 2: Use Cold Water and Gentle Cycle
Hot water fades dyes and weakens fabric fibers. Cold water (60°F or below) preserves both color and print. Select the gentle or delicate cycle to reduce agitation. If your machine has a "hand wash" setting, use it.
Step 3: Choose the Right Detergent
Mild liquid detergents work best. Avoid bleach, whitening agents, and fabric softeners. A good rule: if it smells like a perfume factory, skip it. I recommend a free-and-clear detergent - it has no optical brighteners that yellow white areas over time. Use half the recommended amount to prevent residue buildup.
Step 4: Skip the Soak
Pre-soaking can loosen prints and bleed colors. If you must treat a stain, spot-treat with a drop of detergent and cold water, then wash immediately.
Drying and Ironing Tips for Printed Garments
Drying is the second biggest threat. High heat destroys elastic fibers and cracks prints.
Air Dry Whenever Possible
Lay your merch flat on a drying rack or hang it on a line. Avoid direct sunlight, which fades colors. Air drying takes a few hours but prevents the shrinkage and wear that tumble drying causes. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting (air fluff or no heat) and remove while still slightly damp.
Ironing Inside Out
If wrinkles bother you, iron your garment inside out on a low-temperature setting. Never touch the iron directly to the print. Place a thin cloth (like a pillowcase) between the iron and the garment for extra protection. Steam can help, but keep the iron moving.
Storing Your Merch to Avoid Damage and Fading
How you store your League of Legends apparel matters just as much as washing.
Fold, Don't Hang (Mostly)
Heavy hoodies stretch when hung long-term, especially on wire hangers. Fold them and store on a shelf. T-shirts can be hung if padded hangers are used, but folding is safer to prevent shoulder bumps. Keep folded items in a drawer or bin away from direct light.
Control the Environment
Humidity and heat accelerate fading. Store your merch in a cool, dry place. A closet with good airflow is ideal. Avoid attics or basements where temperatures fluctuate. If you have rare pieces, consider a garment bag (cotton, not plastic) for extra dust protection.
Rotate Your Rotation
Wearing the same hoodie every day leads to faster wear. Rotate between pieces to give each garment rest days. This lets the fibers recover and reduces stress on prints.
Dealing with Stains and Minor Repairs
Accidents happen. Here's how to handle common issues.
Food and Drink Stains
Blot (don't rub) the stain with a paper towel. Pretreat with a drop of dish soap and cold water, then wash as normal. For grease stains, sprinkle cornstarch on the spot, let it sit for 15 minutes, then brush off before washing.
Loose Threads and Small Holes
Snip loose threads with scissors - never pull them. For a small hole, use a needle and thread matching the garment color. If you're not handy, a local tailor can fix it for a few dollars. It beats tossing a favorite hoodie.
Print Cracking
This is usually irreversible, but you can slow further damage by washing inside out and air drying. If the print is peeling, use fabric glue to reseal edges. Apply a tiny amount under the lifted edge and press firmly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fabric softener: It leaves a coating that breaks down prints over time.
- Drying on high heat: Shrinks cotton and cracks ink. Always use low or no heat.
- Washing with zippers and buttons: They snag prints. Fasten all closures and turn garments inside out.
- Overloading the washer: Less agitation space means more friction. Wash merch in small loads.
- Ignoring the care tag: Those symbols aren't decorative - they give exact instructions for your specific garment.
Pro Tips from the Community
- Store your tees rolled instead of folded to prevent crease lines across prints. The roll method (like packing for travel) reduces stress on the ink.
- Use a mesh laundry bag for delicate items like the K/DA long-sleeve tee. It adds a protective layer against snags.
- Before first wash, some collectors soak new merch in cold water with a tablespoon of salt to set the dye. I've tested this on the 2026 Worlds hoodie - the black stayed deep after six washes.
- Keep a separate section in your closet for printed apparel only. No metal buttons or rough denim to rub against the prints.
Recommended Gear and Products
While basic care goes a long way, a few tools make it easier. Our League of Legends Garment Bag (fits hoodies) is a cotton bag that shields against dust and allows breathability - no plastic traps moisture. The Gentle Wash Mesh Bag set comes in three sizes perfect for tees, tanks, and accessories. Both are available in the store alongside the apparel they protect.
Key Takeaways
- Always wash inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle.
- Air dry whenever possible; if using a dryer, choose no heat.
- Store folded in a cool, dark place away from humidity.
- Treat stains immediately with cold water and mild detergent.
- Rotate your wear to extend the life of each piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bleach on my League of Legends t-shirt?
No. Bleach destroys dyes and weakens cotton fibers. It also causes screen prints to peel. Use oxygen-based stain removers instead.How often should I wash my gaming hoodie?
Wash after 3-4 wears unless it's visibly dirty or sweaty. Overwashing accelerates fading. Spot cleaning between washes helps.Is it safe to dry clean my League of Legends apparel?
Dry cleaning uses harsh chemicals that can damage prints and shrink blends. Stick to the cold water method outlined above.My hoodie print is cracking after one wash. What went wrong?
Likely high heat in the dryer or aggressive agitation. New prints need gentle care. Turn inside out, wash cold, and air dry to minimize future cracking.Can I repair a peeling print with an iron?
No. Heat will melt the adhesive further. Use fabric glue for small lifts, or apply a thin cloth and press with a warm iron only if the print is fully adhered. - - Alex Rivera is a creator economy strategist with 10+ years in print-on-demand and merch design. She helps brands and communities build lasting apparel lines.
