Shelf life on printed transfer paper

what happens if you use transfer paper that is more than 6 months old?

jasonsmith said:

I was wondering if there is a shelf life on transfer paper if I was to print some up and store them for later use? i.e. could be years before getting pressed on a shirt.

I was thinking of going with Jet Pro Soft Stretch transfer paper, but may look at other paper Alpha Supply also sells.

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I know this is an old post, but I too would really appreciate feedback on this. Right now I'm working with the Paropy Inkjet Dark Professional transfer papers. Though in all, I'm working out of the trial pack of transfer papers from Heat Press Nation that consists of multiple brands to allow the customer the opportunity to try different types & brands to see which they like better before committing to a full pack of any certain one. Thank you in advance.

Most transfer paper will last if stored in a sealed plastic bag. Most seem to recommend using within a year of purchase. Paper is affected by humidity and temperature. So if your storage site is temp and humidity controlled it should last at least a year sealed. After printing most instructions i have read recommend pressing within a few hours. There are always exceptions, but best practice is to follow the manufacturers instructions. Hope this helps.

cbs1963 said:

Most transfer paper will last if stored in a sealed plastic bag. Most seem to recommend using within a year of purchase. Paper is affected by humidity and temperature. So if your storage site is temp and humidity controlled it should last at least a year sealed. After printing most instructions i have read recommend pressing within a few hours. There are always exceptions, but best practice is to follow the manufacturers instructions. Hope this helps.

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To your point, the same "desiccant" that is used in packing electronics can also be used to put in the sealed bag as you describe to remove moisture in the bag. It's made from Silica Gel and in a small bag like a tea bag, often says "do not eat".

Humidity is a huge factor, I'm in Arizona so it's really dry here but most all papers will absorb moisture and "store" it, so that's a big deal keeping moisture out.

It's also good to store in a dark area, especially sublimation transfers.

We have some papers that are a few years old and they work great. Keep them dry and dark and sealed. You won't have any issues.