Can You Wash a Printed Tea Towel? Care Tips
By Jacqueline Colley Illustration | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Tips & Care
Yes, you can wash a printed tea towel. Learn how to care for the print and fabric so your tea towel stays bright and lasts longer.
Quick answer
Yes, you can wash a printed tea towel. Most printed tea towels, including those made with water-based inks on ethical cotton, are machine washable. To protect the print and fabric, wash at 30°C (86°F) and avoid bleach or fabric softener.
General washing guidelines for printed tea towels
Printed tea towels from Jacqueline Colley Illustration are made in the UK using water-based inks on ethical cotton sourced from the US. The manufacturer recommends washing at 30 degrees. This gentle cycle helps preserve the graphic print and prevents shrinkage or fading.
Avoid bleach and fabric softener, as these can break down the ink and reduce the towel's absorbency over time. Line drying is ideal, but if you use a tumble dryer, choose a low heat setting to avoid heat damage to the print.
Frequently asked questions about washing printed tea towels
- Can I wash a printed tea towel in the washing machine?
- Yes. Use a gentle cycle at 30°C (86°F). Avoid hot water, which can cause the ink to fade or the cotton to shrink. Machine washing at 30°C is safe for water-based ink prints.
- Will the print fade after washing?
- Water-based inks are generally durable, but repeated washing at high temperatures or with harsh detergents can cause fading. Stick to 30°C and mild detergent to keep the print bright. Fading is minimal with proper care.
- Can I use bleach or fabric softener?
- No. Bleach can strip the ink, and fabric softener coats the cotton fibers, reducing absorbency. Both can shorten the life of the print. Skip bleach and softener for best results.
- How should I dry a printed tea towel?
- Line drying is best. If you use a dryer, select a low heat setting. High heat can warp the print or shrink the fabric. Low heat or air drying protects the print.
Product care facts
- Tea Towel Set: Proudly Made in the UK using water based inks on ethical cotton sourced from the US. Will happily be washed at 30 degrees. This means you can machine wash the tea towel set without worrying about damaging the print, as long as you stick to the recommended temperature.
