Why does my DTG garment have a smell?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a popular method for printing designs onto garments, but it's not uncommon for freshly printed DTG garments to have a distinctive smell. This odor can be attributed to several factors:

1. Pre-treatment Chemicals: DTG printing often requires the garment to be pre-treated with a special solution that helps the ink bond to the fabric. This pre-treatment solution can leave a noticeable smell on the garment. The smell usually dissipates after the first wash.
2. Ink: The water-based inks used in DTG printing can also contribute to the smell. These inks are designed to be absorbed by the fabric and become permanent after heat-setting, but they can leave an odor until they are fully cured and washed.
3. Heat Curing: After the garment is printed, it is typically heat-cured to set the ink. The heat-curing process can sometimes cause the pre-treatment chemicals and ink to emit a strong smell.