August 05, 2025 4 min read

Introduction: Your Jersey Deserves More Than a Toss in the Wash

Your bowling jersey isn’t just apparel—it’s a symbol of your team spirit, your performance mindset, and your personal style. Whether you’re bowling with a local league or competing at a national level, your shirt tells a story.

That’s why proper bowling shirt care is essential—not only to preserve the fabric and design but to help you feel sharp, confident, and game-ready every time you step on the lanes.

At Apparel EFX LLC, we’ve spent years designing high-performance sublimated sportswear trusted by over 30 professional bowlers. In this guide, we’re sharing expert tips to keep your jerseys looking fresh, vibrant, and tournament-ready—game after game.

EFX

Washing Tips for Bowling Shirts and Jerseys

Read the Label: Know Your Material

Before you throw your jersey into the wash, take a moment to read the care label. Your shirt’s material determines how it should be cleaned.

  • Sublimated polyester jerseys require gentler care than cotton blends or embroidered styles.

  • Avoid treating all shirts the same—what works for cotton might fade or distort high-performance fabrics.

Washing Dos and Don’ts

Here are some golden rules for washing your bowling shirt without compromising quality:

DO:

  • Turn your shirt inside out before washing

  • Use cold water to preserve colors and elasticity

  • Choose a mild, non-abrasive detergent

DON’T:

  • Use bleach or fabric softener

  • Wash with heavy or abrasive fabrics

  • Set your machine to hot or high-speed cycles

Caring for Custom-Printed and Embroidered Shirts

Sublimated logos won’t peel or crack—but harsh treatment can still cause damage. Embroidered details require even more care.

  • Use gentle cycles to prevent thread unraveling

  • Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric

  • Wash separately or with similar items to prevent snags

Proper care helps maintain the clarity of your design and the comfort of your jersey—essential for both performance and appearance.

How to Store Bowling Shirts the Right Way

Avoid Common Storage Mistakes

You washed it perfectly—now don’t ruin it in storage. Avoid these common slip-ups:

  • Never store shirts while still damp—this invites mold and unpleasant odors.

  • Avoid sealing jerseys in plastic bins or bags that trap moisture and heat.

Pro Tips to Maintain Shape and Color

  • Hang jerseys on padded or wide hangers to preserve shape

  • Store in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight to prevent fading

  • For seasonal storage, use breathable garment bags

Treat your bowling jersey like performance gear—not just a t-shirt—and it will last far longer.

How to Preserve Color Vibrancy and Print Longevity

Skip the Dryer

Dryers are the enemy of sublimated prints and delicate embroidery.

  • Air-dry flat on a towel or hang it in a shaded area

  • Heat breaks down the adhesive and fades prints over time

If you must use a dryer (we strongly recommend against it), choose the lowest possible heat setting and shortest cycle.

Ironing Tips (If Necessary)

  • Turn the jersey inside out

  • Use a low-temperature setting

  • Never iron directly over logos, numbers, or embroidery

Better yet? Lay the shirt flat and smooth it out with your hands while it's damp. No ironing needed.

Special Considerations for Custom Bowling Jerseys

Spot Cleaning Between Games

Bowling tournaments can get messy—coffee spills, snacks, even oil from the lanes. Keep your jersey fresh in between full washes with spot cleaning:

  • Use a gentle fabric-safe stain remover

  • Blot, don’t rub, to avoid damaging the design

  • Pack a travel-sized fabric cleaner in your bowling bag for emergencies

Team Jerseys: How to Keep the Whole Squad Looking Fresh

Managing laundry for an entire league or team?

  • Create a uniform laundering routine—designate one or two people to handle washing duties

  • Wash in batches by color or material

  • Store jerseys in breathable, labeled bags for organized transport

Team unity doesn’t just come from the game—it’s in the crispness and pride of your appearance too.

FAQ: Bowling Shirt Care Questions Answered

Can I put my bowling jersey in the dryer?
No. Air-drying is recommended to preserve color and prevent damage to prints and fibers.

What’s the best detergent for sublimated jerseys?
Use a mild, bleach-free detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid anything with softeners or optical brighteners.

How do I prevent sweat stains on my bowling shirt?

  • Wear a breathable undershirt

  • Wash your jersey promptly after use

  • Use pre-treatment spray in sweat-prone areas before washing

How often should I wash my bowling shirt?
After every game or practice session. Regular washing prevents buildup of oils, sweat, and odors that can degrade performance fabrics over time.

Apparel EFX’s Commitment to Quality and Durability

At Apparel EFX LLC, our sublimated bowling jerseys are designed with long-term performance in mind. We understand what bowlers need because we work directly with them—including over 30 professional athletes and the Professional Women's Bowling Association (PWBA).

Our jerseys:

  • Use advanced sublimation techniques that won’t fade or crack

  • Are built from breathable, moisture-wicking materials

  • Withstand repeated wear and washing when properly cared for

Your jersey is an investment in your game—and Apparel EFX makes it one worth protecting.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Clean, Keep It Game-Ready

Caring for your bowling jersey doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistent, mindful habits—like gentle washing, proper storage, and skipping the dryer—you’ll keep your gear in peak condition for seasons to come.

And let’s face it: when you look good, you bowl better.

Ready to upgrade your game with high-quality, easy-to-maintain gear?

Explore our collection of custom bowling jerseys at Apparel EFX here and discover why pros and league bowlers trust us to keep them looking sharp and feeling confident.