Bridesmaid Dress Cleaning: Diy Guide To Sparkling Gowns

Bridesmaids' dresses are often subjected to a variety of stains, from food and drink spills to grass and mud stains. Knowing how to clean a bridesmaid's dress is essential to ensure the dress remains in good condition. While some dresses may require professional dry cleaning, others can be safely hand-washed or machine-washed at home, depending on the fabric and any embellishments. This guide will provide an overview of the steps involved in cleaning a bridesmaid's dress, including stain removal techniques and tips for washing and drying the dress.

How to hand-wash a bridesmaid dress

Hand-washing a bridesmaid dress is a delicate task that requires attention to detail and a gentle touch. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you effectively hand-wash your bridesmaid dress:

Step 1: Inspect the Dress

Before you begin, carefully inspect the dress for any stains. Check the hemline, as it is likely to have come into contact with the floor. Also, look for stains on the bodice, as this area is prone to perspiration and makeup stains. Identify the types of stains you are dealing with, such as food, drink, or grass stains.

Step 2: Treat Stains

To treat stains, use a clean, white towel to blot away moisture. If the stain is oily, sprinkle baby powder on it to absorb the oil. Always work from the outer edges of the stain towards the centre. Before using any stain removal products, test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the dress to ensure they do not cause discolouration or damage.

Step 3: Prepare the Dress for Washing

If your dress has any embellishments, such as beads or sequins, be cautious. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing these areas too vigorously to prevent damage. If possible, place the dress inside a wash bag or a pillowcase to provide an extra layer of protection during washing.

Step 4: Hand-Washing Technique

Fill a clean bathtub or large basin with warm water and add a gentle liquid detergent. Submerge the hem and train of the dress, allowing it to soak for a few hours. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and detergent to gently scrub the hem and remove any stubborn dirt. Rinse the hem thoroughly after cleaning.

Step 5: Clean the Bodice

Turn the dress bodice inside out and focus on this area, which is prone to perspiration and makeup stains. Create a solution of warm water and gentle detergent in a spray bottle or bowl. Gently scrub the bodice with a soft-bristled brush or clean cloth, paying extra attention to the underarm area.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

After cleaning the dress, fill the bathtub with warm water and submerge the entire dress. Gently swish the dress in the water to remove any remaining soap or detergent. Repeat this process until the water runs clear, ensuring all cleaning agents are removed. To dry the dress, hang it on a sturdy rod or rack, avoiding a hanger, as it may not be able to support the weight of the wet dress. Allow the dress to air dry completely before steaming or ironing to remove any wrinkles.

Bonus Tips:

• Before washing, always test any cleaning products or detergents on a small, inconspicuous area of the dress to ensure they are safe to use.
• Avoid scrubbing or rubbing vigorously, especially on delicate areas with embellishments, to prevent damage to the fabric.
• When drying, avoid hanging the dress on a hanger, as it may not be able to support the weight of the wet fabric.
• Always allow the dress to air dry completely before storing it to prevent the growth of mildew.

Removing stains from a bridesmaid dress

For oily stains, use baby powder to absorb the oil. Cover the stain with powder, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then brush it away. Repeat if necessary. Then, use a damp cotton swab to gently dab at the stain, working from the outer edges toward the middle.

For food and drink stains, use a clean white towel to blot away moisture, and then gently dab the area with a warm, damp cloth, again working from the outside in. If there is any remaining discolouration, cover it with baby powder.

If the stain persists, try using a stain removal stick, dabbing gently from the outside toward the centre. Cover with more baby powder and then gently brush the fabric with a damp cloth.

For more stubborn stains, a stronger stain remover may be required. Mix a solution of a stain remover, such as OxyClean, with water, and soak the stained area until the stain disappears. Avoid using chlorine bleach, as this can leave a film on the fabric that is difficult to remove.

When treating stains, always work gently and avoid rubbing or scrubbing the fabric, as this may damage the dress.

How to dry a washed bridesmaid dress

Drying a washed bridesmaid dress is a delicate process. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Hang-drying the dress:

If you plan to hang-dry the dress, it is important to use a suitable hanger. A sturdy, broad-shouldered hanger will help preserve the shape of the dress. Avoid wire hangers as they can leave permanent marks or indentations on the fabric. Consider using a padded hanger or a hanger with a non-slip coating to prevent the dress from slipping off.

Find a suitable place to hang the dress. A well-ventilated room with good airflow will help the dress dry faster. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause colours to fade and fabrics to become brittle. Instead, opt for a shaded area.

When hanging the dress, ensure that it is not overcrowded on the hanger. Allow the dress to hang freely with ample space for air circulation. If the dress has sleeves, ensure they are positioned properly and not twisted or bunched up.

Laying flat to dry:

If you choose to lay the dress flat to dry, select a clean, flat surface. A drying rack or a clean towel on a table can work well. Avoid using a metal rack or surface that may leave rust stains on the fabric.

Gently lay the dress flat, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases. Ensure that the dress is not folded or bunched up, as this can lead to uneven drying and creasing. If necessary, use gentle hand movements to reshape the dress and smooth out any details, such as ruffles or pleats.

General tips for drying:

Before drying, always check the care label on the dress for any specific instructions or recommendations. Some fabrics may have particular requirements or restrictions when it comes to drying.

Avoid using a tumble dryer unless the care label specifically states that it is safe to do so. The high heat of a tumble dryer can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage.

If the dress has any embellishments, such as beads or sequins, take extra care when drying. Laying the dress flat to dry may be the best option to prevent these details from becoming tangled or damaged.

Always ensure that the dress is completely dry before storing it. Storing a damp dress can lead to the growth of mould or mildew, which can cause permanent damage and odours.

Drying a washed bridesmaid dress requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can help ensure that the dress dries properly and maintains its shape and quality.

How to transport a bridesmaid dress

Transporting a bridesmaid dress can be a delicate task, but with some careful preparation, you can ensure that your dress arrives safely and stays wrinkle-free. Here are some detailed instructions on how to transport a bridesmaid dress:

Choosing the Right Bag

Firstly, you'll want to choose an appropriate bag for your dress. Ideally, you should keep the dress in its original garment bag, as this will provide the best protection against stains, wrinkles, and other damage. If you don't have the original garment bag, you can purchase one online or create a makeshift bag by pinning pillowcases, fitted sheets, or large garbage bags around the gown.

Preparing the Dress

Before you place the dress in the bag, make sure it is properly hung on a clothing hanger. Loop the hanger straps around the hanger several times to distribute the weight evenly. If your dress has a train, use the loop underneath to hang it. This will help protect the dress and make folding easier.

Folding the Dress

When folding the dress, start by placing the middle of the dress inside the bag. Then, take the top and fold it over, and do the same with the bottom, creating a three-fold. This will help ensure that the dress stays wrinkle-free during transport.

Transporting by Car

If you're travelling by car, hang the dress on the hooks inside the roof of the car, draping the skirt over the back seat, keeping it as flat as possible. If you have passengers or luggage in the back seat, lay the dress flat in the trunk, ensuring nothing is placed on top of it to avoid wrinkles and rips.

Transporting by Plane

When travelling by plane, do not check your dress as baggage. Instead, bring it as a carry-on item. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about any specific guidelines they may have for transporting dresses. Give yourself plenty of time to get through security, as your dress may need to be manually inspected. If the plane has a closet, you can hang the dress there. Otherwise, lay it flat in an overhead bin, ensuring no other luggage is placed on top of it.

Transporting by Public Transit

If you're taking a short subway or bus ride, try to avoid rush hour if possible. If you must travel during peak times, consider taking a cab instead. For longer rides, try to get a seat and lay the dress flat if space allows, or hang it from one of the overhead poles, keeping a hand on it at all times.

Additional Tips

• Always keep your dress within your sight and never let it out of your possession.
• Add layers of tissue paper when packing your dress in a suitcase to avoid wrinkles.
• Consider purchasing an extra seat for your dress on the plane if budget allows.
• If your dress does get wrinkled, a careful steam will help remove creases.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your bridesmaid dress arrives safely and remains in pristine condition during transport.

How to store a bridesmaid dress

If you're storing a bridesmaid dress before the wedding, it's best to follow any instructions provided by the boutique or local bridal salon. However, there are some general rules to follow when storing your dress. Firstly, do not store it in plastic. Instead, use a cloth garment bag or plain cotton sheets to wrap your dress and protect it from dust.

The next step is to decide whether to hang or fold your dress. If your dress is heavy, with multiple layers of fabric, heavy beading or structured lace, it is best to store it flat. Place it on a sheet on a bed, fold it in thirds, and store it in a flat, safe space. If your dress is lighter, with just a few layers, you can hang it up. Use the hanger straps to preserve its shape and ensure it is stored in a dark, dry spot, away from direct sunlight, and not in a basement or attic, where the air may be damp.

Finally, resist the temptation to try on your dress or remove it from storage, as the chances of staining increase each time it is handled. Only take it out a few days before the wedding to allow any wrinkles to drop out.

Frequently asked questions