1. Turn It Inside Out: This helps protect the print from rubbing against other clothes and the agitator in the washing machine.

2. Use Cold Water: Wash the t-shirt in cold water to reduce the risk of shrinkage. Hot water can cause cotton to shrink and may damage the print.

3. Choose a Gentle Cycle: Opt for a delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine to prevent agitation that can lead to wear and tear on the print.

4. Use a Mild Detergent: Choose a detergent that’s designed for delicate fabrics or specifically for printed clothing. Harsh detergents can break down the print.

5. Avoid Bleach and Fabric Softeners: Bleach can discolor the print, and fabric softeners may affect the print's adherence.

6. Air Dry: To prevent shrinkage and damage, air dry the t-shirt by laying it flat on a clean towel or hanging it up. Avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat can cause the cotton to shrink and affect the print.

7. Iron with Care: If ironing is needed, do it on the reverse side of the shirt and use a low heat setting. Placing a cloth between the iron and the print can help prevent direct heat exposure.

By following these steps, you’ll help keep both the cotton fabric and the print looking great for longer.