How to Prep and Clean Your 20 oz Tumblers for Sublimation Success

If your sublimation designs are coming out blurry, faded, or uneven — the problem might not be your printer or heat press. It could be how you're prepping your tumbler. Proper preparation is essential for flawless sublimation transfers, especially when working with 20 oz skinny tumblers.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to prep and clean your sublimation tumblers for best results. Plus, we’ll share where to get high-quality sublimation blanks in Canada at affordable prices.

🧼 Why Prepping Your Tumblers Matters

Sublimation works by transferring dye into a poly-coated surface under heat and pressure. If your tumbler is dusty, oily, or has residue from manufacturing, the ink won’t bond properly. That means:

  • Faded or patchy colors

  • Ghosting and smudges

  • Uneven transfers and frustrated customers

A few minutes of prep can save hours of rework and wasted tumblers.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Prep a 20 oz Sublimation Tumbler

Whether you’re using regular bottom or flat bottom skinny tumblers, these steps apply to both:

1. Inspect for Flaws

Before anything else, look for dents, chips, or coating defects. Only use smooth, high-gloss, sublimation-ready tumblers.

2. Wash with Warm Soapy Water

Gently clean the exterior of the tumbler with mild dish soap and warm water to remove oils or dust. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

3. Wipe with 91% Isopropyl Alcohol

Use a lint-free cloth or coffee filter to wipe down the tumbler with alcohol. This step removes oils from your hands and any leftover residue.

4. Use a Lint Roller

Run a clean lint roller over the tumbler before taping your design. Even the smallest speck can show up under heat.

5. Preheat the Tumbler (Optional)

Some crafters like to preheat their tumblers in a convection oven for 1–2 minutes to evaporate hidden moisture. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before applying your design.

🔥 Bonus Tip: Use High-Quality Tumblers for Clean Transfers

Even with the best prep, poor-quality blanks can ruin your design. For best results, always choose premium sublimation-ready tumblers with consistent coating.

Shop our bestselling 20 oz sublimation tumblers at WestCoastCraft.ca — trusted by Canadian small businesses for:

  • Perfect coating for vibrant, full-wrap designs

  • Fast Canadian shipping

  • Both regular and flat bottom options available

  • Bulk pricing to maximize your margins

🛍️ Ready to Sublimate Like a Pro?

Don’t let poor prep sabotage your designs. Follow this simple routine and use trusted blanks from WestCoastCraft.ca — Canada’s most affordable sublimation supplier.

Start creating crisp, professional custom tumblers your customers will love!

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