A BAPE (A Bathing Ape) sweatshirt is more than just another piece in your wardrobe—it’s a statement item, a collectible, and for many, a significant investment. With bold graphics, premium fabrics, and often limited-edition status, your BAPE gear deserves careful maintenance to preserve its shape, color, and overall streetwear value. This guide walks you through the best washing and care tips to keep your BAPE sweatshirt looking fresh for years to come.
1. Always Read the Care Label First
Before doing anything, locate the interior wash tag. BAPE garments typically come with detailed instructions in both Japanese and English. Pay close attention to symbols regarding:
- Washing temperature
- Drying method
- Ironing and bleaching
- Whether dry cleaning is recommended
When in doubt, follow gentle and cold-care principles to avoid damage.
2. Turn It Inside Out Before Washing
To protect printed graphics and embroidered logos from abrasion:
- Turn the sweatshirt inside out
- Zip up any zippers (if it’s a zip hoodie)
- Place it in a laundry bag if available
This step minimizes friction during washing and reduces cracking, fading, and pilling on the outer surface.
3. Use Cold Water and Gentle Detergent
Avoid hot water—it can shrink the fabric and damage screen prints or specialty inks. Instead:
- Set your machine to a cold or delicate wash cycle
- Use a mild, bleach-free detergent
- Do not use fabric softener, which can break down print adhesive and elasticity
If you’re especially cautious, hand-washing is even safer for preserving high-end sweatshirts.
4. Avoid Machine Drying: Air-Dry Instead
Heat is a major enemy of printed or embroidered streetwear. BAPE sweatshirts should never be put in a tumble dryer. Instead:
- Lay the sweatshirt flat on a drying rack to maintain its shape
- Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can cause fading
- Avoid hanging while wet, which may stretch out the shoulders or neck
Air drying takes a bit longer, but it will significantly prolong the life of your BAPE piece.
5. Iron with Caution—If at All
If your sweatshirt becomes wrinkled:
- Turn it inside out before ironing
- Use the lowest heat setting
- Place a clean cotton cloth or towel between the iron and the sweatshirt
- Never iron directly on prints or embroidered logos
Alternatively, use a handheld steamer for a gentle way to remove wrinkles without the risk of heat damage.
6. Proper Storage Matters
When not in use, store your BAPE sweatshirt in a clean, dry space:
- Fold it neatly rather than hanging to avoid stretching
- Keep it in a drawer or shelf away from moisture and sunlight
- For collectible items, consider archival bags or breathable garment covers
You can also include cedar blocks or silica gel packs to avoid odors and mildew.
7. Spot Clean When Possible
For small stains or localized dirt, avoid a full wash cycle:
- Use a damp cloth with a small amount of gentle detergent
- Dab (don’t rub) the affected area
- Rinse with a clean cloth and allow it to air dry
Spot cleaning preserves the rest of the fabric and helps reduce unnecessary wear.
8. Be Mindful of Graphic Areas
If your BAPE sweatshirt features Shark face prints, ABC camo, or collaboration artwork:
- Avoid folding directly over the design
- Do not stretch the graphic while wet
- Avoid wearing cross-body bags that may rub and damage the print
Preserving the graphic is key to retaining the garment’s aesthetic and resale value.
Final Tips: What to Avoid
❌ Do not use bleach
❌ Do not machine dry
❌ Do not iron over logos
❌ Avoid dry cleaning unless stated on the label
❌ Avoid rough agitation or mixing with heavy garments (like jeans)
Conclusion
A BAPE sweatshirt is more than clothing—it’s a cultural artifact, and taking care of it the right way ensures it stays in mint condition. From using cold water and mild detergent to air drying flat and storing it properly, every small step makes a big difference. Whether you’re wearing it daily or keeping it pristine in your collection, following these care and maintenance tips will help your BAPE stay bold, vibrant, and iconic for years to come.