So you might have landed on this page with extreme frustration caused by the loose iron patch, right? We understand! We know how it feels when you want to style something, but it just won’t fix.
The frequent falling off of an iron patch is an extremely common issue. Many people get disheartened when their favorite piece of clothing refuses to connect with the iron patch.
But is this really the case? Or are you stuck in a common mistake that is stopping you from flaunting the new design of your outfit?
This blog will tell you the reason behind a loose iron patch and what you need to do to prevent falling-out conditions.
Why Does An Iron-On Patch Keep Falling Off?
So, you were happily enjoying the high-quality custom patches on your attire or accessories until they started to come off. It must have felt disappointing, right?
The truth is many people are not aware of the proper application process. The iron-on adherence is more than just providing heat and sticking the cloth with a patch. While many people are impressed with these instant results, the early peel-offs dishearten them.
Let’s take a look at the common mistakes you’re making:
You Used a Dirty Fabric
Dust, dirt, oil, or fabric softeners often act as a hurdle for the adhesive to stick deeply to the clothing material. People frequently make the mistake of applying patches to dirty or unwashed fabrics.
Even on new fabrics, adherence is a challenge because of a certain manufactured coating that inhibits the bond between glue and cloth.
The recommended way is always to wash your outfits without any fabric softeners or treat them with alcohol. This prepares a clean surface of your outfit, free of any extra layers.
It provides a clear pathway for the iron on patches for clothes and the fabric to bind together.
You Were Unaware Of the Fabric Requirements
Different fabrics come with different surface areas. Some smooth areas are an easy task, whereas the uneven, textured ones turn out to be a challenge.
Cotton and denim provide a preferable environment and a firm grip for the adhesive to attach to the cloth.
However, the incompatible materials include:
Nylon and Polyester:
They are heat-sensitive fabrics. A better option would be to use a cloth in between to avoid extreme heat. Or you could make use of fabric glue to stick the patch.
Spandex and Elastic blends:
These are stretchable fabrics. There is a high chance of the patch getting loosened as soon as the fabric stretches. It is better to use a sewing technique for these fabrics.
Leather and Waterproof Jackets:
The water-resistant characteristics prevent the glue from sticking to the fabric. Try using fabric glue or sewing the patch on this type of material.
The Adhesive Is Still Inactivated
By this time, you might know the main factor involved in this process- the glue. The glue requires heat activation to melt. This is why it is essential to spread the heat properly for a strong link between the fabric and adhesive.
In many cases, individuals gently press the iron for a few seconds. This leads to insufficient heat and uneven density of the cloth being covered with glue.
Moreover, the glue remains solid, leading to loose edges right after the application.
An essential tip is to analyze the quantity of the glue. Then, use heat depending on the time required for it to spread evenly. You can also keep a cloth in between while applying extra heat to compact the glue with the fabric.
You Washed The Fabric Too Early
Instant washes consisting of harsh cycles can damage the attachment of the patch on your clothes. You need to wait at least 48 hours after the application process to wash or dry the garment.
This will allow the fabric and adhesive to have enough time to strengthen the bonds between them. Moreover, high heat through drying can weaken the adhesive, leading to peeling or full detachment.
A preferable way is to air dry or minimize exposure by turning the garment inside out while washing or drying.
You Didn’t Apply Pressure the Correct Way
A smooth fixation is not just about pressing the iron delicately on the cloth. The strategy goes beyond that. You need to apply pressure on the fabric firmly. Don’t forget to keep the iron in one place to ensure a seamless bond formation.
Another tip is to keep a light material in between for a steady heat transfer without damaging the cloth.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Your Patch the Right Way:
If you feel disheartened watching your patch peeling off from your clothes, worry no more!
Take a look at this table to know how you can reattach and secure it the right way in your outfit!
| What to do | Why it matters |
| Check the quality of your glue. | This step will help you determine the efficacy of the adhesive. If the glue is sticky, re-ironing would be effective. If it’s not, there might be a need for further reinforcement. |
| Shift to a heat-resistant surface. | Instead of using conventional iron boards, try moving onto a hard and heavy surface such as a slab. Don’t forget to cover it with a clothing material. |
| Preheat the iron. | Set the iron temperature depending on the type of fabric you are working with. |
| Avoid heat damage. | On your patch, you need to place a pressing cloth before applying heat. This will protect your patch from any sort of heat damage. |
| Set a balance between heat and pressure. | Apply firm pressure on the iron and hold it still for 30-40 seconds without any movements. This will promote the melting of glue and encourage strong bonds between the fabric and adhesive. |
| Let the patch rest. | At this point, you need to allow the adhesive to cool. This will increase the effectiveness of the procedure. |
| Take a look at your edges. | After about 10 minutes, you can check out the edges. If they have still not bonded, reapply heat and pressure. |
If you are unable to re-iron the patches, an effective way is to apply fabric glue on the patch. Press the patch against the fibre and place something heavy on it for the next 24 hours.
- Pro tip: For extra durability and to prevent the lifting of the patch, you can sew the edges of the patch.
Final Word
Iron patches are a great way to customize and add a unique look to your favorite garments or accessories. The annoying part comes with their frequent peel-offs and unknown reasons behind them. Identifying the mistakes you have been making can help in implementing effective solutions. As a result, you can enjoy long-lasting patches without any fear of falls or lifts!