Hola Subbers! Your Subbing Amiga Irma is here to help you on your sublimation journey. This time is answering your questions on caring for your sublimation tumbler.
If you're a fan of sublimation tumblers, you know how fun they are to customize with your designs. But you want your tumbler to stay looking its best. In that case, following some basic sublimation tumbler care instructions is important. This post will share five tips for keeping your sublimation tumbler in top condition.
Tip # 1. Wash By Hand Using A Mild Detergent
One of the most important questions regarding sublimation tumbler care is," are sublimation tumblers dishwasher safe?". The simple answer is NO. The heat and chemicals used in dishwashers can cause damage to the sublimated design, so it's best to wash your tumbler by hand.
Do this by:
1. Fill your sink with warm water and mild detergent.
2. Gently scrub the inside and outside of the tumbler with a soft sponge or cloth, taking care not to scrub too aggressively (which can cause the design to fade or peel off).
3. Once you've finished scrubbing, rinse the tumbler thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
It's also a good idea to avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners on your tumbler. These can strip away the protective coating on the tumbler and cause damage to the sublimated design. Stick with a mild detergent and a gentle touch, and your tumbler should look its best.
But what about those tough stains that just won't come out?
ProTip: If you're dealing with a particularly stubborn stain, you might be tempted to reach for a stronger cleaner. But be careful! These cleaners can be too harsh for sublimation tumblers and blemish the design.
Instead, try soaking the tumbler in warm water and mild detergent for a few hours or overnight.
This can help to loosen the stain and make it easier to scrub away. Just be sure to rinse the tumbler thoroughly afterward to remove any detergent residue.
Tip # 2. Avoid Exposing To Extreme Temperatures
Another important tip for sublimation tumbler care is avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures. This means not leaving it in a hot car or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Excessive heat can dull the sublimated design or fade away, which is different from what you want!
Tip # 3. Don't Microwave Or Put it In The Freezer
Microwaves and freezers are two places where sublimation tumblers don't belong. Microwaving your tumbler can cause the design to fade, so it's best to avoid this altogether.
Similarly, placing your tumbler in the freezer can also cause damage to the sublimated design.
Extreme cold can cause the design to crack or become brittle, which can ruin the design.
What can you do to reheat your coffee or keep your drink cold? A simple solution is to use a separate container in the microwave or fill your tumbler with ice. This will allow you to enjoy your drink without damaging your tumbler.
Tip # 4. Don't Use Abrasive Cleaners Or Scouring Pads.
While keeping your tumbler clean is important, it's equally important to be gentle. Harsh detergents and abrasive cleaners can strip away the protective coating on your tumbler and damage the sublimated design.
The same goes for scouring pads and other abrasive tools. These can scratch the surface of your tumbler and make the design more prone to fading or peeling.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean your tumbler to avoid this. This will help to preserve the protective coating and keep the design looking its best.
Tip # 5. Use Caution When Using A Convection Oven
While sublimation tumblers are typically made with a special coating that allows you to ad designs, you can also create a sublimation tumbler in a convection oven. This can be a convenient way to add designs to your tumblers at home. Still, it's important to be careful when using a convection oven for sublimation.
First and foremost, follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific tumbler and convection oven. Different brands and models may have different requirements for temperature, time, and placement in the oven. Failing to follow these instructions can damage your tumbler or the design.
It's also a good idea to use caution when handling your tumbler after sublimation. The design will need time to cure, so avoid washing or handling the tumbler too aggressively until the curing the process is complete.
But what if your tumbler comes out of the oven with a distorted or faded design?
This can happen if the tumbler is not properly positioned in the oven or if the oven temperature is too high.
To prevent this from happening, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and pay close attention to the placement and temperature of the tumbler in the oven. You can achieve a beautiful sublimated design on your tumbler with a little care.
Conclusion
By following these five essential sublimation tumbler care instructions, you can keep your tumbler looking its best for years to come. Whether you're using your tumbler for hot drinks or cold, these tips will help you get the most out of your sublimation tumbler. Happy sipping!
If you're new to the world of sublimation, head over to my article on Starting a Sublimation Business. I also invite you to join our Facebook Group, where both beginners and experienced sublimation professionals can ask questions, share insights, and work toward achieving success in their sublimation business goals!
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