Lyla Dejesus
Storing a wedding dress in the loft is not recommended due to extreme temperature fluctuations, high humidity levels, and the presence of pests. These factors can cause irreversible damage to the delicate fabric of the wedding dress, including mould growth, fabric weakening, and discolouration. To properly store a wedding dress, it is best to avoid hanging it long-term, as this can stress the seams and cause the fabric to stretch over time. Instead, it should be carefully folded with layers of acid-free tissue paper and stored in a breathable garment bag or wrapped in a cotton sheet in a spare closet.
How to store a wedding dress in a loft
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Lofts experience extreme temperature fluctuations, which can accelerate the degradation of delicate fabrics. |
| Humidity | High humidity levels can cause mould growth and weaken the fabric. |
| Pests | Lofts are more prone to pests, such as mice and moths, which can damage the dress by chewing the fabric. |
| Light | Exposure to light can cause the fabric to fade. |
| Storage container | Avoid plastic containers, as they can cause mould and discolouration. Use a pH-neutral cardboard box or a breathable garment bag. |
| Tissue paper | Use white, acid-free tissue paper to wrap the dress and buffer folds. Do not use coloured tissue paper, as it can stain the dress. |
| Hanging | Avoid hanging the dress long-term, as it can stretch the fabric and cause stress on the seams. |
| Metal | Cover any metal hooks, buttons, or embellishments with acid-free tissue to prevent oxidation and staining. |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid plastic bags and cardboard boxes
When storing a wedding dress, it is important to avoid using plastic bags or cardboard boxes. Plastic bags should never be used for long-term storage. Over time, chemicals from plastic bags can leach out and discolour the fabric of your gown. Plastic bags can also trap moisture and lead to mould growth.
Cardboard boxes are not ideal for storing wedding dresses either, as they contain a lot of acids that can age materials very quickly. Cardboard also has gaps that can allow insects to get into the box and damage the dress.
Instead of plastic bags, use a cloth or cotton garment bag. Make sure the cloth bag is not vacuum-sealed. If you prefer a box, choose a sturdy, acid-free, lignin-free wedding dress storage box with a fitted lid to protect the gown from dust, insects, and light.
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Don't store in the attic
Do not store your wedding dress in the attic. Attics are often the worst places to store your wedding dress. They are prone to extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels. These temperature and humidity changes can accelerate the degradation of delicate fabrics, and high humidity can lead to mould growth and fabric weakening. Attics are also more susceptible to pests like mice and moths, which can cause direct damage to your dress by chewing the fabric.
Additionally, attics are prone to water leaks, and you don't want your wedding dress to be affected by a leaking roof. General dampness and insects can also affect a dress in the attic, even if it is well protected. The same goes for a basement, which is another poor choice for storing your wedding dress. Basements are the most naturally moist areas of a home, making them a prime area for mould growth, which can quickly lead to irreversible fabric rot.
Instead, the best place to store your wedding dress is in an area of your home where you and your family are most comfortable and spend the most time. This could be a spare room or bedroom where the temperature and humidity will not fluctuate, and the dress can remain out of direct sunlight. Keeping your wedding dress in a warm, dry place with no history of insects will ensure that the chances of damage are minimised.
Overall, while the attic may seem like a convenient storage option, it is important to consider the potential risks to your wedding dress and choose an alternative location that will keep it in pristine condition for years to come.
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Use acid-free tissue paper
While a loft or attic is not an ideal place to store your wedding dress due to extreme temperature fluctuations, high humidity levels, and pests, if you must store your wedding dress in the loft, be sure to use acid-free tissue paper. Standard tissue paper contains acids and other chemicals that can damage your dress over time, causing discolouration and yellowing. Acid-free tissue paper is essential for preserving the colour and fabric of your dress during long-term storage.
Acid-free tissue paper is pH neutral, ensuring that the dyes in your dress's fabric will not transfer or react to the paper. It is also processed to remove contaminants. When folding your wedding dress, place layers of acid-free tissue paper between the folds to buffer the contours of the gown and prevent harsh creases and fabric stress. You can also place acid-free tissue inside the dress, particularly in the bodice, for added protection.
If your wedding dress has metal hooks, buttons, or embellishments, be sure to cover them with acid-free tissue paper during storage. Metal is prone to oxidation and can rust over time, staining your dress irreversibly. Acid-free tissue paper will help prevent this type of damage.
Additionally, acid-free tissue paper gives your dress room to breathe, which is essential for preventing wrinkles and creating an environment that is less attractive to moths. Moths can wreak havoc on delicate fabrics, especially in dark, secluded spaces. By using acid-free tissue paper and properly storing your dress in a breathable container, you can help protect your wedding dress from moth damage.
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Store flat, not hung
It is best to store your wedding dress flat, rather than hanging it, especially for long-term storage. Hanging a dress can cause stress on the seams and shape, and the weight of the dress can also cause it to stretch over time. The heavier the dress, the more pronounced creases will become. If you must hang your dress, ensure it is only for a short period and that the hanger is strong enough to bear its weight.
When storing your dress flat, carefully fold it, placing layers of acid-free tissue paper between the folds. This helps to buffer the folds and prevent harsh creases and fabric stress. Acid-free tissue paper also ensures that no harmful chemicals come into contact with the delicate materials of your dress, preserving its colour and fabric during long-term storage.
Store your dress in a breathable garment bag or wrap it in a cotton sheet. Avoid plastic bags, as they can cause "phenolic yellowing" due to gases released by ageing plastics. Plastic also does not allow fabrics to breathe and can cause staining and mould.
The best place to store your dress is somewhere that has consistent and comfortable humidity levels, away from extreme temperatures. Attics are prone to temperature fluctuations and high humidity, which can accelerate the degradation of delicate fabrics and cause mould growth. Basements are also not recommended, as they are the most naturally moist areas of a home and are prone to pipe leaks.
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Keep in a cool, dry place
Keeping your wedding dress in a cool, dry place is essential for preserving its quality. Extreme temperatures can cause damage and discolouration, turning the gown yellow. Therefore, avoid storing your wedding dress near heat sources, excessive moisture, or direct sunlight. Basements and attics are not ideal for storage due to fluctuating temperatures, high humidity, and the potential for leaks or pests.
Instead, choose a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a spare room or bedroom, where the temperature and humidity are stable. The top shelf of a closet is a great option, as long as it is not located near a heat source or a window with direct sunlight. Ensure the wedding dress is stored in a breathable garment bag or box designed for wedding dress storage. Avoid plastic bags and cardboard boxes, as they can trap moisture and cause mould growth or discolouration.
When storing your wedding dress, fold it loosely to avoid creasing or damaging delicate fabrics. Use acid-free tissue paper between the folds to prevent harsh creases and preserve the fabric's colour. If your dress has metal hooks, buttons, or embellishments, cover them with acid-free tissue during storage to prevent staining from oxidation.
It is also essential to have your wedding dress professionally cleaned before storing it. Even if it appears clean, there may be dirt or bacteria that can cause discolouration over time. A professional bridal dry cleaner will use specialised techniques to ensure your gown is in mint condition before storage.
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Frequently asked questions
Lofts are prone to extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels, which can accelerate the degradation of delicate fabrics. High humidity can also lead to mould growth and fabric weakening. Lofts are also more susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause direct damage to your dress by chewing the fabric.
It is recommended that you do not hang your dress on a hanger for long-term storage, as this can cause stress on the seams and shape. Instead, carefully fold your dress with layers of acid-free tissue paper between the folds to prevent harsh creases and fabric stress.
Do not store your wedding dress in a plastic dress cover or a normal cardboard box. Plastic dress covers do not allow for changes in humidity, which can cause mould, and normal cardboard boxes can cause discolouration. Instead, use a box made with special pH-neutral board.
It is recommended that you inspect your wedding dress every 6 months or 1 year to detect any issues such as yellowing of fabrics, mould growth, or pest damage.
Some alternative places to store your wedding dress include a spare closet, under your bed in your master bedroom, or a conditioned garage.
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