How To: Caring For Your Wedding Dress
How to look after wedding dress before wedding?
How to store it:
Most wedding dresses have heavy fabric layers and plenty of embellishments. It isn’t wise to hang such dresses. However, if your dress has minimum embellishments and is light-weight, consider hanging it in a closet or a similar safe place. For a heavy gown, you should ideally store the dress flat. Ideal locations would be the top shelf of your closet or a storage area under the bed, that you rarely use for anything else. Or if you have a spare room, consider storing it there, if it is out of direct sunlight.
Hang it with care:
If your dress isn’t too heavy, you can hang it up in your storage space. However, be careful how you do this. Always use a padded hanger for the purpose, and not one made from wiry material that can damage the fabric. Wedding dresses will have fabric loops on the inside. Use these to hang it. Never hang a dress by its straps or sleeves. This can cause the delicate material to sag or rip.
Extra Tips and Advice for Caring for Your Wedding Dress:
- Hang Your Dress Carefully: When storing or hanging your wedding dress, use a sturdy, padded hanger to support its weight. Avoid wire hangers, as they can stretch or distort the fabric. Hang your dress in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent discoloration or damage from sunlight.
- Protect Your Dress from Pets: If you have pets at home, keep your wedding dress out of their reach to avoid any potential damage. Cats, in particular, may be drawn to the texture of the fabric, so store your dress in a closed room or a protective garment bag to keep it safe.
- Handle with Clean Hands: Before touching your wedding dress, make sure your hands are clean and free of lotions, oils, or makeup. Oils and residue from your hands can transfer onto the fabric and leave stains or marks that are difficult to remove.
- Keep Food and Drinks Away: While getting ready on your wedding day, be cautious with food and drinks around your wedding dress. Accidental spills can be challenging to remove and may cause permanent stains. Have a designated area for refreshments, away from your dress, and use a straw for sipping to minimize the risk of spills.
- Beware of Makeup and Perfume: Be mindful when applying makeup and perfume before putting on your wedding dress. Apply makeup and let it fully dry before dressing to avoid smudging or staining the dress. Also, spray perfume on your body rather than directly on the dress, as some perfumes may contain oils or alcohol that can damage the fabric.
- Have a Fabric Care Kit Handy: Prepare a fabric care kit that includes essential items such as stain remover, fabric freshener, and a lint roller. Keep this kit nearby on your wedding day, so you can quickly address any stains, wrinkles, or minor mishaps that may occur.
- Delegate Dress Assistance: Enlist the help of a trusted bridesmaid, family member, or wedding planner to assist you with your dress throughout the day. They can help you navigate tight spaces, lift the train, or handle bustling if needed, minimizing the risk of tripping or damaging your dress.
- Plan for Outdoor Photos: If you’re planning to take outdoor photos, be mindful of the location and weather conditions. Choose locations with minimal risk of dirt, mud, or other elements that may soil your dress. Consider bringing a clean, white sheet to stand on for protection, especially if the ground is damp or dirty.
- Take Breaks from Sitting: If you’ll be sitting for an extended period in your wedding dress, take occasional breaks to minimize creasing or wrinkling. When sitting down, arrange your dress carefully to avoid excessive pressure on delicate details or beading.
- Professional Cleaning and Preservation: After your wedding day, have your dress professionally cleaned and preserved as soon as possible. Seek out a reputable wedding dress preservation service that specializes in handling delicate fabrics and intricate details. Proper cleaning and preservation will help ensure your dress remains in excellent condition for years to come.
How to clean a wedding dress:
Given the delicate, handmade nature of our garments, we recommend that they all be washed by hand and laid flat to dry. Do not use bleach, dress washing chemicals and other caustic substances.
Hand wash.
In cool water.
Using delicate soap.
Do not bleach.
Do not tumble dry.
Do not iron.
Do not wring.