How do different print-on-demand t-shirt qualities compare - and what should I check before selecting a manufacturer or supplier?

Print-on-demand (POD) T-shirt qualities can vary widely based on the manufacturer, printing method, and materials used. To ensure you select the best supplier for your needs, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:

1. T-Shirt Quality

Material: Look for high-quality fabric like 100% combed and ringspun cotton or blends (e.g., polyester-cotton) that balance comfort and durability. Avoid coarse or thin materials prone to wear and tear.

Fit and Style: Suppliers offer various fits (regular, slim, oversized) and styles (crew neck, V-neck, tank tops). Choose one that matches your brand aesthetic.

Weight: Fabric weight (measured in GSM or oz/yd²) affects the feel. Lightweight fabrics (4-5 oz/yd²) are breathable and ideal for summer, while heavier ones are more durable.

2. Printing Quality

Method: Sublimation, direct-to-garment (DTG), or screen printing can affect durability and vibrancy. DTG, for instance, excels at detailed designs but may not be as long-lasting as screen printing.

Color Accuracy: Test how well colors match your designs, especially if your brand relies on specific hues.

Durability: Check reviews or samples to see if prints crack, peel, or fade after washing.

3. Supplier Reliability

Production Time: Ensure the supplier meets your timeline for manufacturing and delivery, especially for events or seasonal trends.

Shipping Options: Look for clear, affordable shipping rates and global fulfillment if targeting international customers.

Customer Support: Responsive support is essential for handling issues like misprints or delays.

4. Customization Options

Design Placement: Verify if the supplier supports multiple design placements (front, back, sleeves).

Range of Products: If you plan to expand beyond T-shirts, choose a supplier offering varied items like hoodies or tote bags.

5. Pricing and Reviews

Costs: Compare base prices to balance profit margins with competitive pricing for customers.

Reviews: Research customer feedback and request samples to assess quality before committing.

When comparing print-on-demand (POD) T-shirt qualities and selecting a manufacturer, consider these key aspects:

1. Fabric Quality

• Common Options: Cotton (soft, breathable), polyester (durable, moisture-wicking), or blends like 50/50 (versatile, affordable).
• Check For: Thread count, fabric weight (lightweight vs. heavyweight), and feel (e.g., combed cotton for softness).

2. Print Quality

Methods:

• DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Ideal for detailed designs but works best on 100% cotton.
• Screen Printing: Great for bulk orders and vibrant colors but less flexible for small runs.
• Sublimation: Best for polyester, with all-over designs but limited to lighter-colored fabrics.
• Heat Transfer Vinyl: Durable but not suited for intricate designs.
• Check For: Longevity of prints after washes, color vibrancy, and alignment precision.

3. Fit and Style Options

• Range: Slim fit, oversized, unisex, or gender-specific cuts.
• Check For: Size inclusivity and consistent sizing charts.

4. Pricing and Margins

• Check For: Manufacturer pricing versus retail pricing to ensure profitability. Compare costs for base products and added customizations.

5. Turnaround Time

• Check For: Production and shipping timelines, especially for seasonal or time-sensitive campaigns.

6. Customer Reviews

• Check For: Real-life feedback on quality, consistency, and service reliability.

7. Ethical and Sustainable Practices

• Check For: Organic fabrics, eco-friendly printing processes, or fair labor certifications if sustainability aligns with your brand.

the first of all, 

for tshirt/hoodie/jersey

1. we need to find the print on demand first, after you are found that.
we can compare from the reviews from all of the buyers.
2. there is so many print on demand around the world, and every countries have different cotton material and you can choose the material that is suitable for the weather is your area, because this is really important.
3. you can make a test for the quality first, such as order 1 sample from all of the print on demand you choose. so you will know the quality for the cotton, printing, and etc.

that's the point that i can share.
thank you very much.