Epson 8550 DTF printing maintenance tips

Choosing the right printing method and taking care of your equipment are both very important when you run a custom apparel business. One of the most common questions is — should I go for DTF or Sublimation? And if you already use the Epson 8550 DTF printer, how do you maintain it for the best performance?

At DTGPRO, we help printing businesses in India choose the best DTF printer, and we also guide you on how to keep it running smoothly for years.

DTF or Sublimation: Which One is Better?

Before we talk about maintenance tips, let’s first understand the two printing methods:

DTF (Direct to Film): This method prints your design onto a film using special ink, then uses a heat press to transfer it onto fabric.

Sublimation: This method uses heat to turn ink into gas, which then becomes part of the fabric (mostly polyester).

DTF Printing Pros:

Works on all fabrics: cotton, polyester, blends

Supports both light and dark-colored garments

Ideal for small businesses

More product variety (t-shirts, bags, hoodies, caps)

Sublimation Pros:

Vibrant prints on polyester

Ink becomes part of the fabric — no feel or texture

Long-lasting on sportswear

If your goal is flexibility, especially in India where people wear cotton more often, DTF is the better choice. That’s why many startups choose the best DTF printer for all kinds of apparel.

Why Choose Epson 8550 for DTF Printing?

The Epson 8550 is a popular option because it delivers sharp results, supports DTF ink, and is budget-friendly. It’s also easy to handle for beginners and works great with DTF printed designs.

But to get the best results, regular maintenance is a must.

Epson 8550 DTF Printing Maintenance Tips

Here are simple and effective tips to keep your Epson 8550 running like new:

1. Clean the Print Head Regularly

DTF inks are thicker than regular inks. Clean the print head once every few days to prevent clogging. You can use the printer's built-in cleaning function or manual cleaning with cleaning solution.

2. Use the Printer Frequently

If you leave your DTF printed machine unused for too long, the ink may dry up and block the nozzles. Try printing a small design daily or at least 2-3 times a week.

3. Use High-Quality Ink and Film

Don’t compromise on ink or film quality. Cheap ink can damage your print head and reduce the quality of your prints. At DTGPRO, we recommend only tested and compatible supplies for the best DTF printer results.

4. Maintain the Right Temperature and Humidity

Keep your printer in a dust-free, cool environment. High humidity can affect film and ink behavior, leading to smudges or fading.

5. Shake the White Ink Bottles

White ink settles faster than colored ink. Gently shake the white ink bottles every day to keep it mixed. This prevents clogging and ensures smooth printing.

6. Run Nozzle Checks

Always run a nozzle check before starting a big print job. This helps you spot any gaps in ink flow early and clean the print head only when needed.

7. Turn Off Properly

When done, use the power button to turn off the printer. Never unplug it directly. The printer goes through a safe shutdown process that protects the ink system.

Final Thoughts: DTF Wins for Most Indian Apparel Businesses

For Indian businesses, where cotton t-shirts, custom hoodies, and tote bags are in high demand, DTF printing with Epson 8550 is a smart and cost-effective choice. Sublimation may be good for polyester jerseys, but it has limitations.

With proper care and regular maintenance, your Epson 8550 will deliver excellent DTF printed results every time. And at DTGPRO, we’re always ready to guide you in choosing the best DTF printer and the right supplies for your success.