Waterbased vs Plastisol

Water-based inks and plastisol are two types of inks commonly used in the printing of apparel. Both have their own unique characteristics and advantages, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific needs of the project.

Sustainability: Water-based inks are considered to be more sustainable than plastisol inks because they are made with water and pigments, while plastisol inks are made with PVC resin and plasticizers. PVC is a petroleum-based product that is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment. Plasticizers, which are added to PVC to make it more flexible, can also be harmful to the environment and human health. In contrast, water-based inks are made with water and pigments, which are considered to be more environmentally friendly. They are also easier to clean up and do not require harsh chemicals.

Long-term usage: Water-based inks tend to have a softer feel and are more breathable than plastisol inks. They are also more durable and can withstand multiple washes without fading. The soft feel and breathability of water-based inks make them more comfortable to wear, especially for clothing that is worn close to the skin. In addition, water-based inks are known for their ability to retain their color and vibrancy even after multiple washes, making them a great choice for clothing that is intended for long-term use. On the other hand, plastisol inks are known to crack and lose their vibrancy over time, making them less suitable for long-term use.

Clean-up and chemical exposure: Cleaning up water-based inks is relatively easy and can be done with water and mild detergents. Plastisol inks, on the other hand, require the use of solvents, which can be harsh and potentially harmful to the environment and human health. This not only can affect the environment but also the workers who are handling these chemicals and solvents.

Washability: Water-based inks are more resistant to fading and can withstand multiple washes without losing their vibrancy. Test shows that the color fastness level of water-based inks is usually 4-5, which is considered as good, while plastisol inks tend to crack and lose their color after multiple washes, with color fastness level of 2-3 which is considered as poor. Plastisol inks usually start to crack and fail after 20-25 washes, while water-based inks can last up to 50 or more washes.

Overall, water-based inks are considered to be more sustainable, durable, and resistant to fading compared to plastisol inks. They are also easier to clean up, do not require harsh chemicals, and do not have a negative impact on the environment and human health, unlike plastisol inks which are derived from petroleum and plasticizers which can be hazardous.