How to Care for Your Embroidered Patches: Washing, Storage, & Longevity Tips
You've chosen your favorite embroidered patches, applied them with care, and now they're a vibrant part of your personalized gear. To ensure your 4-inch patches maintain their stunning appearance and stay securely in place for years to come, a little ongoing care goes a long way. Understanding how to properly wash and store items with patches is key to maximizing their embroidered patch durability.
This guide will provide essential patch care tips for washing, storage, and overall make patches last longer.
Understanding Your Patch's Adhesion & Longevity
Our embroidered patches feature a convenient peel and stick self-adhesive backing, offering strong initial adhesion for easy application. However, for items that will be frequently washed or subjected to heavy use and flexing (like clothing or active bags), the adhesive's bond can naturally weaken over time.
For ultimate longevity on washable items, we highly recommend taking the extra step to sew on patches in addition to or instead of just relying on the adhesive. (See our guide: "Beyond the Stick: When (and How) to Sew Your Embroidered Patches for Extra Security").
Washing Items with Embroidered Patches (Especially Those on Fabric)
Proper washing is crucial to prevent peeling, fraying, or fading.
Hand Wash is Best (Recommended for longevity): For items like jackets, jeans, or fabric bags adorned with embroidered patches, hand washing in cold water is the gentlest method.
Use a mild detergent.
Gently agitate the item, focusing on the fabric rather than scrubbing directly on the patch.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Machine Wash (If Necessary, with Caution): If machine washing is unavoidable, follow these steps to minimize stress on the patch:
Turn Inside Out: Always turn the garment inside out before placing it in the washing machine. This protects the patch from agitation and friction.
Use Cold Water: Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hot water can weaken adhesives and cause colors to fade.
Mild Detergent: Use a gentle, color-safe detergent.
Avoid Bleach & Harsh Chemicals: These can damage both the patch and the fabric.
Drying (Crucial for Adhesive Patches):
Air Dry is Highly Recommended: For items with peel and stick patches, air drying is the best option. Lay the item flat or hang it to dry. High heat from dryers can melt or weaken the adhesive over time, causing patches to peel.
Low Heat Tumble Dry (Use with Caution): If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove the item as soon as it's dry. Avoid prolonged tumbling on high heat.
General Care Tips for All Embroidered Patches:
Avoid Direct Heat: Never iron directly on top of the embroidered area, especially for peel and stick patches, as high heat can damage the threads and melt the adhesive. If ironing the garment, always iron from the inside out around the patch, or place a cloth over the patch if you must iron nearby.
Spot Clean Small Stains: For minor spots on the patch itself, gently dab with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid rubbing vigorously.
Handle with Care: Be mindful when handling or storing items with patches to prevent snagging the embroidery.
Storage Tips:
Flat Storage: Store items with patches flat or on a hanger to prevent creasing or bending the patch, which could compromise adhesion over time.
Cool, Dry Place: Store patches and patched items in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
By following these simple patch care guidelines, you can significantly extend the life of your embroidered patches and ensure your personalized items remain vibrant and stylish for years to come.