Iron-On Patch Durability: How Long Do They Really Last?

Whenever we recommend patches, we always recommend iron-on patches for longer wear. Compared to our other styles, there simply is no equal to the permanency that you can achieve with iron-on patches. However, the permanence of iron-on patches is only as solid as you can apply it. If you’re not prepared or don’t use the right fabrics, you can accidentally spend a lot of effort for a shorter wear time.

What Influences the Lifespan of Iron-On Patches?

Type of Iron-On Patch

Iron-on patches are not limited to one specific kind of patch. “Iron-On” refers to the material that we put on the back of our custom patches. Running your finger on the back of these patches, you’ll feel the hard smooth surface of the glue. It should feel similar to wax after it hardens! When we apply heat to these patches, the glue melts and then solidifies as it cools. This is how the patch is sealed onto the fabric or other material.

Some types of patches can still work as iron-on patches but need to be sealed by applying heat to the back of your material rather than the front of the patch. Materials like leather and PVC rubber are extremely heat-sensitive, so applying heat directly on them may cause the design to become ruined without proper care.

Type of Material the Patch is Applied to

The fabrics you attach your iron-on patches to need to be able to withstand heat. By absorbing the heat without damage, they make a much easier surface to seal your patch to. Think of material that works well in colder weather like wool or linen. Material that retains heat will make it harder to damage during the application process.

Quality of Patch

Not everyone thinks that a pricier patch may be worth it. But that’s only on the initial checkout. Over time, that higher cost shines as the patch showcases its high-quality. Patches with a lower quality will seem more appealing on the first price tag, but may tear and pull apart far easier and create more price tags as you have to repeat application. Or even worse, you might need to buy an entirely new fabric and patch to reapply to each other.

Application Security

After taking all of the previous elements into account, make sure to apply the correct amount of heat. Both heat and time come into play when making the application of your patch. About 350 degrees is the best choice, but make sure to keep a few things in mind too when applying:

• Remove any excess fibers, dirt, and hair between the patch and fabric.
• Hold the iron onto either the front of the patch or the back of the material, depending on the type of patch.
• Apply pressure  for a little under a minute, making sure the patch glue liquifies.
• If your fabric cannot handle high temperatures, keep the heat lower but apply pressure for a longer period of time to counteract this.

You can also check out our blog on how to apply iron-on patches to get a full run through!

How do I Extend the Lifespan of Iron-On patches?

Make Sure Your Iron-On Patch is Top Quality

Putting forth that extra amount of money helps ensure your patch is high-quality. And quality goes such a long way to longevity. We always ensure that our patches are as top-notch as possible when you work with us. But as long as you know you’re getting value wherever you decide to go, you’ll get a longer lifetime for your patch.

Read Instructions on How to Apply Patches

As we mentioned earlier, we offer a full read through of how to apply iron-on patches onto clothing. Making sure to read through every line of instruction before beginning the process will make for less mistakes. It will ultimately save you a lot of time and money if you make sure you’re doing it right the first time!

Use Extra Materials to Prevent Burning

For fabrics and patches that are sensitive to heat, you can add a layer between the material and the heat. This helps prevent possible burning or melting of both your iron-on patch and your fabrics!

Minimize Washes and Temperatures

If possible, try to avoid having to wash anything that has your custom patches on it, at least excessively. Warm water and soap can lead to wearing down the adhesive to your material. Too many washes also accelerates the separation between the iron-on patch and the fabric.

You’re All Set!

By taking proper care of your patches with this information, you can ensure that your iron-on patches last much longer. Feel free to check out our recommendations for iron-on patches as well if you’re planning to attach them yourself. We want to make sure the process is as painless as possible.

If you want something even more permanent, we offer services to sew patches onto hats as well. That way you can make sure that you keep your patches attached for as long as you possibly can.