George Boyle
A wedding dress is one of the most important items of clothing a person will ever wear, so it's crucial to keep it properly stored before the big day to prevent any damage. Wedding dresses are often kept in garment bags, which protect the dress from damage that can be caused by light, water, and air. However, not all garment bags are created equal—plastic bags, for example, can emit fumes that cause fabric discolouration. Instead, it's recommended to use a cloth garment bag or wrap the dress in plain cotton sheets. While dresses are often hung up, heavier dresses may be better off stored flat to reduce strain on the seams and beading.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Store flat, not hung, to reduce strain on the seams and fabric
- Use a breathable cloth garment bag, not plastic, to prevent discolouration
- Keep in a cool, dark, dry closet to avoid mould and discolouration
- Avoid light exposure to prevent discolouration
- Resist the temptation to try on the dress to avoid stains
Store flat, not hung, to reduce strain on the seams and fabric
Wedding dresses are often hung up, but this can cause strain on the seams and fabric, especially if the dress is heavy. Hanging a wedding dress can cause the fabric to stretch over time, and heavy dresses can pull at seams and beading.
It is better to store your wedding dress flat if you can. This takes the pressure off the fabric and reduces the risk of strain. You can lay the dress on a guest bed, or store it flat under a bed, wrapped in a breathable cotton sheet to protect the gown and let it "breathe".
If you do decide to hang your dress, use the hanger straps inside the gown, rather than the sleeves or garment straps, as these are designed to bear the weight of the dress.
It is also important to store your dress in a cool, dry, dark place, away from direct light, to prevent discolouration.
The Perfect Wedding Dress Height for Your Big Day
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Use a breathable cloth garment bag, not plastic, to prevent discolouration
Wedding dresses are often transported in plastic sleeves, but these should be removed if the dress is to be stored for longer than a few days. Plastic does not allow the fabric to breathe, and chemicals in the plastic can cause discolouration and staining.
Preservationists recommend storing your wedding dress in a cloth garment bag or plain cotton sheets. This allows the fabric to breathe and prevents discolouration. It also protects your dress from damage that can be caused by light, water, and air.
If you are hanging your dress, ensure that the garment bag is large enough to avoid putting strain on the dress. Lorenson Conant, executive director of the Association of Wedding Gown Specialists, advises against plastic garment bags, stating that "when fabric oxidises, it turns yellow."
It is also important to consider the weight of your dress. Heavy dresses with multiple layers of fabric, heavy beading, or certain fabrics are best stored flat to reduce strain on the seams and stitching. This can be done by laying the dress flat under a bed or in a spare closet, wrapped in a cotton sheet to allow the gown to breathe.
To summarise, it is important to use a breathable cloth garment bag instead of plastic to store your wedding dress, as this will prevent discolouration and staining while allowing the fabric to breathe.
Wedding Guest Dresses: Choosing the Perfect Outfit
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Keep in a cool, dark, dry closet to avoid mould and discolouration
To keep your wedding dress in pristine condition before the big day, it is essential to pay attention to its storage. One of the key considerations is to keep the dress in a cool, dark, dry closet to prevent mould and discolouration.
Mould thrives in moist environments, and closets can be breeding grounds due to limited ventilation and humidity. To avoid mould, it is crucial to ensure your wedding dress is completely dry before storing it. Moisture trapped in the fabric can promote mould growth, so always hang your dress to dry thoroughly before placing it in the closet. Additionally, consider using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets or desiccants to eliminate excess moisture in the closet.
Regular cleaning of the closet is also vital to prevent mould. Dust, dirt, and organic matter can contribute to moisture retention, so be sure to wipe down surfaces and vacuum or sweep the floors. Keep the closet well-ventilated by opening the doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and minimise stagnant, moisture-laden air. You can also use a box fan to increase ventilation and ensure the space is completely dry.
To further protect your wedding dress, opt for a breathable garment bag that is large enough to accommodate the gown without crowding. This will shield the dress from light, water, and air damage. However, avoid plastic garment bags, as they can emit fumes that may discolour the fabric over time. Instead, choose a cloth bag or breathable fabric like cotton or linen to allow your gown to "breathe."
By following these steps and maintaining a cool, dark, and dry closet environment, you can effectively prevent mould and discolouration from affecting your wedding dress before your special day.
Mastering Wedding Dress Crinolines for Your First Dance
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Avoid light exposure to prevent discolouration
Light exposure can cause discolouration and weakening of fabric. The sun's UV rays can cause white and pastel-coloured fabrics to become yellowed or dingy, and darker colours to fade. This is especially true for delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and chiffon, which are more prone to sun damage due to their fine fibres.
To avoid light exposure, store your wedding dress in a cool, dark space, such as a closet with doors or drawers that block light. If you have an open wardrobe or a closet with transparent doors, consider adding curtains or shades to protect your dress from light exposure.
Another option is to use a breathable garment bag to store your dress. These bags shield your clothes from sunlight and prevent dust build-up, ensuring your dress stays clean and undamaged. Make sure to use a cloth garment bag, as plastic bags can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
If you do choose to hang your dress, opt for a large garment bag with enough space to accommodate the dress. When hanging, use the hanger straps inside the gown instead of the garment straps or sleeves, which can stretch over time.
Additionally, consider storing your dress flat if possible, as wedding dresses are significantly heavier than normal clothing, and hanging them can cause strain on the straps.
Designing Your Dream Wedding Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Resist the temptation to try on the dress to avoid stains
It can be tempting to try on your wedding dress before the big day, but it is important to resist this temptation to avoid any accidental stains. Makeup and deodorant are some of the biggest culprits for staining when trying on your dress. If you must try on your dress, be sure to remove your makeup and deodorant first.
It is also important to store your dress in a safe place where it won't be disturbed frequently. This will reduce the risk of accidental damage and staining. Choose a storage location that is cool, dry, and dark, such as a closet or a guest room. Avoid attics, basements, or garages, as these areas can have fluctuating temperatures and humidity, which can damage your dress.
Another way to resist the temptation of trying on your dress is to store it in a wedding dress storage box. These boxes are made from acid-free, lignin-free cardboard, which won't cause any fabric scorching or staining. By keeping your dress in a box, you can also avoid the fabric stretching that can occur when hanging for long periods.
Additionally, consider having your dress professionally cleaned and treated for stains before storing it. This will help to remove any invisible stains, such as sweat, that can turn brown or yellow over time. The longer a stain sits, the more difficult it is to remove.
Toilet Paper Wedding Dress: Creative Bridal Shower Game
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to store your wedding dress flat, wrapped in a cotton sheet or breathable cloth bag, in a cool, dark, and dry place. If you do choose to hang your dress, use the hanger straps inside the gown and a garment bag that is large enough for the dress.
A few days before your wedding, carefully remove your wedding dress from its storage location and hang it somewhere high so that all wrinkles and creases can drop out. If there are still wrinkles a day or two before the wedding, hang the dress in the bathroom while a hot shower is running. You can also use a portable steamer to remove wrinkles.
Once your gown is properly stored away, try to resist the temptation to try it on or remove it from the bag. Your chances of staining and potential oil marks increase with each time your dress is handled. If you must try on your gown for friends or family, be sure to remove your makeup and deodorant first.
The best way to store a wedding dress long-term is with a paper board box and tissue that are acid-free. Avoid using plastic to store your gown, as this can cause staining and promote the growth of mold and mildew.
It is recommended to store your wedding dress in a spare closet at home to help preserve its life. You can also leave it at the bridal store or alterations place until right before your wedding.
![Zilink 72" Wedding Dress Garment Bag Dress Bags for Gowns Bridal Dress Travel Bag with 12”Gusseted and Accessory Pockets for Wedding Dress, Puffy Gowns [Upgraded Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51XK76FMZoL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
