Using a heat press to make T-shirts, bags, or other custom items?
Then, you’ll want more than just the press itself. The right accessories can make your work easier, help your prints look better, and protect your machine.
In this guide, we’ll show you a complete list of heat press accessories — from basic tools you need on day one to extras that can improve your setup as your business grows.
✅ Must-Have Accessories (Start with These)
These are the tools most people use with their heat press, whether they’re beginners or pros.
1. Teflon Sheet (Non-Stick Cover Sheet)
This sheet protects both your design and your heat press. It stops things from burning or sticking.
💡 Tip: Winnerjet recommends using a Teflon sheet for every press. It helps avoid costly mistakes.
2. Heat-Resistant Tape
Holds your design in place while pressing. This is especially useful when you’re working with small logos or multiple pieces on one shirt.
3. Heat Press Pillow
These soft foam pads go inside the shirt (or under seams and zippers). They help apply even pressure so your design transfers cleanly.
4. PTFE Cover for Bottom Plate
Put this cover on the lower part of your press. It helps you slide shirts on and off more easily.
5. Lint Roller
Before pressing, roll this over your fabric to remove dust or fuzz. Even small bits can ruin a transfer.
6. Pressure Test Paper or Strip
This simple tool helps check if your press is applying pressure evenly across the whole area.
🔧 Nice-to-Have Accessories (For Smoother Workflow)
These aren’t required to start, but they’ll save time and help you press more shirts faster and more accurately.
7. Shirt Positioning Ruler
Helps you line up your design in the same place on every shirt. Super helpful for beginners.
8. Laser Alignment Tool
Projects a red line onto the shirt so you can line up the print perfectly — especially useful for bulk printing.
9. Extra Bottom Plates (Platen Sizes)
Want to press sleeves, baby clothes, or small items? Swapping in a smaller platen makes it easier and safer.
10. Silicone Mat or Foam Pad
These go under your press to provide extra cushioning and protect your table or workspace.
🔥 Accessories for DTF or Vinyl Printing
If you’re using DTF film or heat transfer vinyl (HTV), these tools can make the job easier and neater.
11. Film Holder or Rack (For DTF)
Keep your film flat, clean, and organized before you press it.
🎯 Winnerjet’s PET film works best when stored flat in a rack or drawer to avoid static and dust.
12. Powder Tray and Scoop (For DTF)
Helps you apply and collect DTF powder neatly without making a mess on your table.
13. Temperature Gun
Check the real temperature of your heat press. Sometimes, the press screen isn’t accurate — this tool helps you make sure you’re pressing at the right heat.
🧽 Maintenance & Cleaning Tools
These simple tools help keep your heat press in top shape:
- Soft cleaning cloth
- Alcohol wipes (for sticky or dirty areas)
- Extra Teflon sheets in case one gets damaged
✅ Final Thoughts: Build a Smarter Printing Setup
You don’t need every tool on this list right away. But even a few smart accessories can help you:
- Save time
- Press faster
- Get better results
- Make fewer mistakes
🎯 Need help choosing accessories for your heat press setup?
Winnerjet offers:
- Easy-peel DTF film
- Teflon sheets and heat tape
- Starter kits for DTF and HTV printers
👉 Get a free quote. We’ll help you find exactly what you need.
❓FAQs – Heat Press Accessories
🧦 Do I need all these accessories to begin?
No. You only need a few: a Teflon sheet, some heat tape, and a heat press pillow. Add more as your needs grow.
🎯 What’s the most helpful tool for DTF printing?
We recommend a pillow (for even pressure) and a positioning ruler (for perfect placement).
🔥 My press says 160°C, but the shirt isn’t sticking. Why?
The press screen might be off. Use a temperature gun to check the real heat on the surface.
📦 Can I get everything in one kit?
Yes! Some sellers (like Winnerjet) offer starter kits with PET film, tape, powder, and pressing tools all in one.
👕 Can I press without these accessories?
You can, but you’ll likely waste more shirts and have more issues. These tools make things much easier and more professional.
