Pink t-shirt with a speech bubble asking why prints are turning pink
19Jul,2026

Why White DTF Prints Turn Pink on Red Polyester

BY : Editorial Team

A white DTF print that turns pink on red polyester is dye migration. Heat from the press can push the fabric's dye up into the white ink. Test a scrap garment first, press at the low end of our range, and ask us before a full run on red polyester.

What is dye migration?

Polyester dyes can move when heated. On red, bright or dark polyester, the dye can travel into a light DTF layer and tint it, often after pressing or days later in storage.

How do I check before a full run?

Press a transfer on a spare garment, then leave it for a day and look again. Press at 302°F, our recommended setting. The working range is 300 to 320°F and 320°F is the maximum. Use the lower end of that range, a cover sheet, and no more heat than needed.

What if the white still turns pink?

Change the garment. A different fabric or colour is often the cleanest fix. Some shops use a blocking layer. Ask us what we recommend for your garment.

Is this a problem with my transfer?

Not usually. The dye is in the shirt. Tell us what the garment is and we can advise. If a problem is on our side, we reprint within 30 days.

Quick answers

Does it happen on cotton?

Rarely. It is mostly a polyester issue.

What temperature should I use?

302°F is recommended, 300 to 320°F is the range, and 320°F is the maximum.

See also dye migration on parkas. Order ready-to-press DTF gang sheets.