Whether you're repping Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart on the street or just want your favorite hoodie to last through election season, taking proper care of your official The Rest Is Politics merch ensures it stays sharp for years. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from washing and drying to storing your gear like a pro.
Washing Your Tees and Hoodies the Right Way
The first rule of merch care: always turn your garments inside out before washing. This protects the screen-printed design from friction and fading. For The Rest Is Politics tees and hoodies, cold water is your best friend. Hot water can cause shrinkage and accelerate print wear. Use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent - avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as these can break down the fabric fibers and dull the ink.
If you're dealing with a heavy-duty hoodie made from thick cotton, consider washing it separately or with similar colors to prevent dye transfer. And here's a pro tip learned from years of political campaign merch: zip up all zippers and fasten any Velcro to prevent snags. The last thing you want is a pulled thread on your "Disagree Better" tee.
Drying Tips to Prevent Shrinkage and Fading
High heat is the enemy of both cotton and printed designs. Air drying is always the best option for your The Rest Is Politics merch. Lay your tee or hoodie flat on a drying rack or hang it on a line away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting or tumble dry no-heat. Remove items while still slightly damp to minimize wrinkles and reduce stress on the print.
Never wring out your merch - this distorts the fabric and can crack the screen printing. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water after washing and let gravity do the rest. Your hoodie will thank you by maintaining its shape and softness.
Removing Stains Without Damaging the Print
Even the most careful listener can spill coffee during a heated debate episode. For fresh stains, act fast: blot (don't rub) the stain with a clean cloth to absorb excess liquid. Then apply a small amount of mild liquid detergent directly to the stain and gently work it in with your fingers. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing as usual.
For oil-based stains (think pizza grease from a late-night TRIP binge), pre-treat with a bit of dish soap or a stain remover stick. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals near printed areas - they can permanently remove the ink. If the stain is on the print itself, be extra gentle: use a soft-bristled brush or simply your fingertips. For stubborn stains, consider hand washing with cold water and a delicate detergent.
Storing Your Merch to Keep It Lookin New
How you store your merchandise matters as much as how you wash it. Fold your tees and hoodies neatly rather than hanging them on thin wire hangers, which can cause shoulder bumps and stretch the neckline. If you do hang them, use wide, padded hangers. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight - that sunlit shelf may look nice, but it'll fade your prints over time.
If you're rotating your collection between seasons, use breathable fabric storage bins instead of plastic containers, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. And here's a bonus tip: if you want to keep your merch smelling fresh, toss in a cedar block or a sachet of dried lavender. Avoid mothballs - they have a strong chemical odor that's hard to remove.
How to Care for Your Mug and Accessories
Your The Rest Is Politics mug deserves its own set of rules. Hand wash your mug with mild soap and a soft sponge to preserve the printed design. Dishwashers can be tough on ceramic prints due to high heat and harsh detergents. If you must use the dishwasher, place the mug on the top rack away from the heating element and select a gentle cycle.
For other accessories like pins, keychains, or hats, a simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough. Avoid submerging pins in water to prevent rust on the metal backing. Hats can be hand washed in cold water and shaped while damp to retain their form. And as always, keep everything out of prolonged direct sun exposure to maintain vibrant colors.
By following these steps, your The Rest Is Politics merch will stay fresh, comfortable, and conversation-starting for many episodes to come. Ready to level up your collection? Check out the latest arrivals at the official store.
