HomeOur Journal How to Store a Wedding Dress: Tips for Long-Term Preservation
How to Store a Wedding Dress: Tips for Long-Term Preservation
Your wedding day is one of the most magical days of your life, and your wedding dress is one of the most important pieces of clothing you will ever wear and a symbol of that special day. Whether you plan to sell your wedding dress, pass it down to future generations or simply want to preserve its beauty, proper storage is essential. Many brides wonder after their special day how wedding dresses get properly stored and may feel unsure on the correct wedding gown preservation process post wedding. Well we are wedding gown specialists here to provide you with special instructions and top tips on how to store a wedding dress for long-term preservation.
So you’ve celebrated your wedding day and danced the night away with your new husband or wife but realised your wedding gown got a little bit (or a lot!) dirty and you were hoping to sell it or preserve it, now what? Before storing your wedding gown, it is essential to get it professionally cleaned by a trusted bridal dry cleaner. Even if it appears clean, there may be dirt or bacteria that can cause yellowing or discolouration over time. A professional dry cleaner that specialises in bridal wear will use specialised techniques to remove any stains and ensure that your wedding gown is in mint condition before being stored away. After cleaning, be careful handling the dress. Be sure to have clean hands or wear white gloves from this point forward to stop any oils from getting on the gown. To maintain your gown’s integrity look over the wedding gown for any loose threads, embellishments or buttons missing. If you fix these issues before you store your wedding dress it will help prevent any further damage.
So how do you store your wedding dress? When it comes to storing wedding dresses, avoid using plastic dress covers or regular cardboard boxes, as they can trap moisture and bacteria in the dress and lead to mold or mildew growth. (these types of bags are only good for short term storage) Instead, use acid-free tissue paper, never use any form of coloured tissue paper, or a cloth garment bag, never use a plastic garment bag or plastic covering, or an acid-free, lignin-free wedding dress storage box container designed specifically for preserving wedding dresses. (Lignin is an organic substance found in wood pulp that can damage the material of your gown)
The acid-free tissue paper will help protect the fabric of your wedding dress and prevent creases, while the acid free storage box will provide a breathable environment that maintains the wedding dress’s quality. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the wedding dress without compressing it.
So you have your wedding dress in a storage box ready to put away but does where you put it matter? Yes it certainly does. The storage location of your wedding dress plays a significant role in preserving your wedding dress. Look for a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a closet or a guest room, to keep your dress safe. Humidity control is an essential part of storing your dress. Avoid storing it near heat sources, excessive moisture, or direct sunlight, as extreme temperatures can cause damage and discolouration causing the gown to turn yellow.
Try to also keep your wedding dress away from any cooking or smoking odours, as they can permeate the fabric over time. It’s best to store the wedding gown in a place where it won’t be disturbed frequently, reducing the risk of accidental damage.
Maintain Regular Check-ups
While long-term storage is intended to preserve your wedding dress, it’s essential to check on your dress regularly. Every six months, take the time to inspect the dress for any signs of damage or pests. If necessary, refold the dress along different lines to prevent permanent creases.
Maintaining regular check-ups will allow you to detect any issues early on and take the necessary steps to address them promptly, ensuring the dress stays in excellent condition.
If you want the utmost assurance that your wedding dress will remain in mint condition, consider professional preservation services. Professional preservation involves cleaning, treating, and packaging your dress using museum-quality techniques and materials. This process ensures that your dress is protected against aging factors such as light, humidity, and insects.
Professional preservation not only guarantees the long-term preservation of your wedding dress but also provides peace of mind knowing that experts have taken every measure to safeguard its beauty.
Remember, your wedding dress is more than just a piece of clothing. It holds special memories and sentimental value. By following these tips, you can ensure that your wedding dress remains a treasured keepsake for future generations to come or in great condition for its future wearer.
Why is it important to properly store a wedding dress?
Proper wedding dress preservation is important because it will help maintain your gown’s beauty and integrity for years to come especially if your goal is to sell your wedding dress or pass it down to loved ones someday.
Is it necessary to clean a wedding dress before storing it?
Yes, it is highly necessary to clean a wedding dress before storing it. Removing any stains, dirt, or sweat and oils will prevent them setting in and causing any further damage. You want to help keep the integrity of your wedding dress’s delicate fabric and extend its lifespan with correct wedding dress preservation. Find a professional dry cleaner to help clean your dress so it is in pristine condition for storage.
What is the best way to fold a wedding dress for storage?
Firstly make sure your dress has been professionally cleaned before folding for storage. Use acid-free tissue paper which will prevent any beads, sequins, or embroidery from snagging or scratching the fabric. The tissue paper helps to cushion and protect the dress during storage.
Be sure to fold loosely to avoid creasing or damaging delicate fabrics. Fold the top of the dress inside and keep the bottom half or train of the dress outside. Be sure to avoid sharp folds especially in areas where the fabric is more delicate or prone to wrinkles. Store your gown in a breathable garment bag or box that is designed for wedding dress storage. Do not use plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
Can I store my wedding dress in a regular closet or does it need special storage?
Storing your wedding dress in a regular closet may not provide the right conditions to properly protect the dress from damage. Wedding dresses are highly receptive to change in temperature and humidity. Regular closets may not have the proper climate control for your wedding dress.
How do I protect my wedding dress from yellowing or discolouration over time?
The best way to protect your gown from discolouration is making sure your dress is stored in a cool dry dark place protected in an acid free garment bag or box. You can also look into specialised storage options such as UV blocking materials or a cover to shield the dress.
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