Preserving Your Wedding Gown: Diy Or Professional?

Preserving your wedding gown is a great way to ensure it stays in pristine condition for years to come. It can be a daunting task for new brides, but there are a few options available to you. You can choose to have your gown professionally cleaned and preserved, or you can attempt to clean and preserve it yourself. If you decide to take on the task yourself, it is important to be aware of the different materials commonly used in wedding dresses and to avoid using traditional harsh laundry detergent, bleach, or a hot iron on the delicate materials. Instead, use acid-free paper to store your dress and consider investing in an online wedding dress preservation service, which will provide you with a specially sealed box to ensure the temperature and humidity level is kept stable.

Cleaning your wedding gown yourself

If you're the DIY type and your gown isn't made of any delicate materials like silk or taffeta, you may be able to clean your wedding gown yourself. Here are some tips for doing so:

Before Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning your gown, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, delicate materials like silk and other sensitive fabrics don't respond well to traditional cleaning detergents, which can cause permanent damage. If your dress has any organza details, use extreme caution when pressing the material as heat is likely to cause it to lose its crispness.

Cleaning

When cleaning your gown, be sure to use very soft-bristled brushes as hard brushes can cause fraying and pulls in the fabric. Avoid using bleach on any part of your gown, as it is one of the harshest chemicals you can use and can cause permanent discolouration.

After Cleaning

If you do choose to clean your gown yourself, consider investing in a quality wedding dress storage box. The proper storage of your gown is crucial to preserving it for the long term.

Stain Removal

To remove stains from your gown, you can use a stain remover, white vinegar mixed with water, a baking soda paste, or a few drops of mild dish detergent. Apply the cleaning agent to a clean cloth or paper towel and lightly blot the stain. Then, dampen a clean section of the towel and dab the mark to rinse it out.

Cleaning Hemlines and Trim

The hemline, trim, and dress train are particularly susceptible to getting dirty as they brush against the floor. To clean these areas, fill a clean bathtub or large basin with warm water and mild laundry detergent for gentle garments. Submerge the hem and train and allow it to sit for a few hours. If a more thorough cleaning is needed, gently scrub the hem with a toothbrush and detergent after it has been soaked.

Cleaning the Bodice

The bodice or the top of the gown is prone to perspiration stains, makeup, and food and drink spills. To clean this area, make a mixture of warm water and a gentle detergent and put it into a spray bottle or use a clean, unused toothbrush dipped into the solution. Turn the bodice inside out and gently scrub all parts. Then, refill the tub with warm water, submerge the dress, and gently stir it around. Repeat these steps until the soap is completely rinsed out.

After cleaning the gown, do not wring it out. Instead, hang it on a sturdy rod to allow it to drip and air dry. Once it is completely dry, use a garment steamer to remove any wrinkles or creases, and then allow it to air dry again before packing it away to prevent mildew growth.

Dry cleaning vs gown preservation

Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment will retain its quality for years to come. It is not as simple as dry cleaning the gown, putting it inside a box, and handing it back to the bride. Dry cleaning is the treatment of areas, where soiled, with chemicals. Once the gown is clean, it is wrapped in acid-free tissue paper and placed in an acid-free archival preservation chamber.

Preservation means using materials appropriate for ensuring the long-term physical and chemical stability of the fabric. This is done by using highly specialised materials that are typically acid-free. Preservation begins with an experienced specialist's assessment. The specialist creates a unique treatment plan according to the dress fabric, stitching and details.

Dry cleaning is an absolute must after your wedding day, whereas gown preservation is a personal decision and depends on whether the bride chooses to share her gown with the next generation. If you are planning on wearing your wedding dress in the near future, a simple cleaning should suffice. However, if you want your gown's beauty to last long-term so it can be passed down to a loved one, preservation is the way to go.

The cost of wedding dress preservation varies, but you should expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $1000 for this service, depending on where you are located and what level of work your gown requires. Wedding dress cleaning costs between $200 to $300.

There are some additional reasons for preserving your gown. Wrinkles and fabric "hang" can also cause irreparable damage to your gown over the long term. Wrinkles can cause fabric to weaken and fray over time at the point of the fold. Fabric "hang" is caused by storing your gown on a hanger in your closet.

The cost of preservation

The cost of wedding dress preservation varies depending on the company, the gown's fabric, location, and other factors. The price typically ranges from $250 to $700, but can go as high as $1000 or more for intricate gowns or those with extensive damage.

Some companies offer preservation packages that include additional services such as insurance, expedited shipping, and the preservation of wedding accessories. These packages can range from $300 to over $1000, depending on the level of customisation and the number of items included.

It is worth noting that wedding dress cleaning, which is often the first step in the preservation process, typically costs between $200 and $300. This service is usually included in the preservation packages offered by professional companies.

When budgeting for wedding dress preservation, it is essential to consider the level of expertise and experience of the preservationist, as well as the specific requirements of your gown. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, it is crucial to prioritise the long-term preservation of your gown by choosing a reputable company with positive reviews and a solid warranty.

Choosing a preservation box

When choosing a preservation box for your wedding gown, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to select a box made of acid-free materials, as acid can cause discolouration and damage to the fabric over time. The box should also be of archival or museum quality to ensure the best protection for your gown.

Another key consideration is the size of the box. It should be large enough to accommodate the gown comfortably, with room for acid-free tissue paper or unbleached muslin to be wrapped around and placed between the folds of the dress, including the sleeves. This will help to prevent creases and ensure the gown is well-protected.

Additionally, it is recommended to choose a preservation box with a display window. This allows you to view your gown without having to open the box, reducing the risk of oxygen exposure and potential discolouration. A display window also lets you admire your gown and reminisce about your special day.

When selecting a preservation box, it is essential to consider the storage conditions. The box should be stored in a cool, dry, dark, and climate-controlled space, such as a closet shelf or under the bed. Attics, basements, and garages are not suitable due to extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity levels.

Finally, you may want to consider the cost of the preservation box. Prices can vary, ranging from around $200 to over $700 for a preservation kit. It is worth investing in a quality box to ensure the best protection for your wedding gown.

Storing your gown

Before storing your wedding gown, it is important to ensure that it is completely clean. This is because stains that are not visible on your dress, such as sugar, sweat, and oils from the skin, can cause the gown to yellow over time. If you choose to clean the dress yourself, avoid using traditional laundry detergents, bleach, or a hot iron on delicate materials like silk or taffeta. Instead, opt for soft-bristled brushes and avoid bleach to prevent damage to the fabric.

Once your gown is clean, it is essential to use acid-free paper to wrap and store it. Regular paper can leave stains on the delicate fabric. Place the wrapped dress inside a bridal box, preferably one that is airtight and made of acid-free cardboard or acid-free plastic. If using a box, carefully fold the dress, using acid-free tissue paper or unbleached muslin to wrap and protect the folds of the dress, including the sleeves and bust. If using a plastic garment bag, choose a padded hanger to prevent snags.

When storing your wedding gown, select a cool, dry, and dark location, such as a closet shelf or under the bed. Avoid attics, basements, and garages, as extreme temperatures can damage the fabric. Keep the gown away from direct sunlight, which can cause yellowing, and ensure the storage area has good air circulation to prevent mould or mildew.

If you are unable to store your gown at home, consider using an online wedding dress preservation service. These services provide a preservation box, clean the dress, and then ship it back to you in the sealed box. All you need to do is store the box in a climate-controlled room.

Frequently asked questions