In this post, we’re comparing 5 different digital textile printing ink types. Discover the key differences between sublimation, pigment, reactive, disperse, and acid inks in textile printing. Learn when to use each ink type based on fabric compatibility, durability, and application goals.
Choosing the right ink type is one of the most important decisions in digital textile printing. Each ink has its own chemistry, workflow, and material compatibility. Whether you’re printing sportswear, home décor, or luxury scarves, selecting the proper ink type will determine your final print quality, durability, hand feel, and environmental impact.
In this guide, we’ll compare the five most widely used textile printing ink types—sublimation, pigment, reactive, disperse, and acid inks. You’ll learn what each ink is, when it should be used, which fabrics it works best with, and what pros and cons to consider.
Digital Textile Printing Ink Types:
Sublimation Inks
Sublimation ink is a water-based dye ink designed for polyester fabrics. It works through a process called dye sublimation, where heat transforms the ink into a gas that bonds with polyester fibers on a molecular level. Because of this unique mechanism, sublimation inks do not sit on top of the fabric—they actually become part of it.
This makes sublimation ideal for sportswear, activewear, flags, soft signage, and promotional items made from polyester. The resulting prints have excellent color vibrancy, sharp detail, and high durability.
Advantages Of Sublimation Ink
- Extremely vibrant colors with sharp definition
- High resistance to washing and abrasion
- No need for post-treatment when used with transfer paper
- Efficient for high-speed roll-to-roll production
Disadvantages Of Sublimation Ink
- Limited to polyester or polyester-coated surfaces
- Requires heat transfer equipment or calender
- Unsuitable for cotton or natural fibers
Digital Textile Printing Ink Types:
Pigment Inks
Pigment inks contain fine color particles that adhere to the surface of the fabric, rather than bonding chemically. This ink type is considered highly versatile because it works across a wide range of fabric types, including cotton, polyester, blends, and even synthetics. Recent advances in ink chemistry and binder systems have made pigment inks more reliable and more eco-friendly than ever before.
Pigment inks are particularly useful for DTG (direct-to-garment) and DTF (direct-to-film) workflows, home textiles, custom decor, and small-batch fashion production. With proper pre-treatment or optimized print systems, pigment inks can deliver good wash fastness and color consistency.
Advantages Of Pigment Ink
- Compatible with both natural and synthetic fibers
- No steaming or washing required
- Ideal for short runs and customized production
- Environmentally friendly with low water usage
Disadvantages Of Pigment Ink
- Colors are typically less vibrant than dye-based inks
- Ink sits on the fabric surface, which may impact softness
- Limited penetration on thick or textured materials
Digital Textile Printing Ink Types:
Reactive Inks
Reactive inks are water-based dyes that form a chemical bond with cellulose fibers, such as cotton, viscose, bamboo, or linen. They require a full fixation process—usually involving steaming, washing, and drying—to properly lock in the dye.
This ink type is known for delivering the highest levels of color brilliance, depth, and fastness on natural fibers. The print results are soft to the touch and can withstand extensive washing, making reactive inks the preferred choice for fashion and high-end home textiles.
Advantages Of Reactive Ink
- Bright, vivid colors with deep penetration
- Excellent wash and light fastness
- Soft feel on the printed fabric
- Ideal for natural fiber applications
Disadvantages Of Reactive Ink
- Requires pre-treatment, steaming, and post-wash
- High water and energy consumption
- Complex setup compared to other inks
Digital Textile Printing Ink Types:
Disperse Inks
Disperse inks are designed for printing directly onto polyester fabrics without the need for transfer paper. Unlike sublimation, disperse inks are fixed onto the fiber through high-temperature heat fixation, often via a calendar or oven.
Disperse inks penetrate the fabric more than sublimation and are especially useful for printing on heavy polyester textiles like curtains, upholstery, and automotive interiors. They are also used in fashion and technical textiles where higher durability is required.
Advantages Of Disperse Ink
- Direct-to-fabric printing on polyester
- Strong color penetration and durability
- Suitable for wide-format and industrial applications
- No paper required, reducing consumable costs
Disadvantages Of Disperse Ink
- High-temperature fixation required
- Limited to polyester and certain blends
- May still require pre-treatment depending on fabric
Digital Textile Printing Ink Types:
Acid Inks
Acid inks are used primarily on protein-based fibers such as silk, wool, and nylon. These inks require steaming and washing, much like reactive inks, but they offer unmatched brilliance and softness on delicate fabrics.
Due to their complexity and niche focus, acid inks are mostly used in luxury fashion, scarves, ties, lingerie, and artistic applications. The resulting prints are exceptionally vivid, with high wash fastness and minimal impact on the feel of the fabric.
Advantages Of Disperse Ink
- Deep, saturated colors with excellent clarity
- Very soft hand feel on luxury fabrics
- High wash and light fastness
- Ideal for silk, wool, and nylon
Disadvantages Of Disperse Ink
- Requires full fixation process with steam and wash
- More niche and expensive
- Limited to specific fabric types
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ink for Your Needs
Each ink type has its unique properties and use cases. Sublimation is perfect for fast, high-quality polyester printing. Pigment offers versatility and simplicity across multiple fabric types. Reactive inks bring out the best in natural fibers. Disperse excels in direct-to-polyester applications, and acid inks provide superior results on luxury materials.
If you’re unsure which ink is right for your application, it’s best to consult with a specialist who understands both the technology and the textile industry.
Talk to the Experts
At AluBest, we specialize in matching your printing needs with the ideal ink and printer combination. Whether you’re focused on fashion, home décor, or industrial textiles, we can guide you through the process with hands-on expertise and a curated selection of world-class brands.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s bring your textile vision to life. And don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel.
