Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment retains its quality for years to come. The process involves an experienced specialist assessing the dress and creating a unique treatment plan according to the fabric, stitching, and details. The preservation process can take anywhere from four to ten weeks and typically costs between $250 to $700, with prices going as high as $1000 depending on the gown and location. The dress is then carefully packed with acid-free tissue and placed in an acid-free box to protect it from light and air that can cause discolouration and fabric degradation over time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To ensure the wedding dress retains its quality for years to come |
| To pass down the dress to future generations | |
| To repurpose the dress | |
| To resell the dress | |
| Process | Professional cleaning |
| Surveying the gown's materials, embellishments, and stains | |
| Formulating a specialised cleaning procedure | |
| Using highly specialised materials appropriate for ensuring the long-term physical and chemical stability of the fabric | |
| Repairing broken hems, beading, etc. | |
| Housing the dress in an acid-free box | |
| Folding the dress using special lofting tissues to support all folds and portions of the dress | |
| Storing the box in a cool, dark place away from humidity | |
| Time | The entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks |
| The actual cleaning process takes about 3 hours | |
| The restoration process can take up to 2 weeks | |
| Cost | Between $250 to $700, with prices going as high as $1,000 depending on the gown and location |
| Guarantee | Lifetime guarantee or up to 100-year guarantee |
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What You'll Learn
The cost of preservation
The cost of preserving a wedding dress can vary depending on the method chosen and the level of service desired. There are a few different approaches to preserving a wedding gown, each with its own price range:
Cleaning and Packaging:
The most basic step in preservation is professional cleaning and packaging. This typically involves having the dress cleaned by a specialist wedding dress cleaner, who will use gentle solvents and techniques to remove any stains and dirt from the fabric. This process can cost around $100 to $300, depending on the complexity of the dress and the severity of any stains. After cleaning, the dress is then carefully packaged in acid-free tissue paper and boxed to protect it from light, air, and moisture.
Vacuum Sealing:
Another method is vacuum sealing, where the cleaned dress is placed in a special airtight bag and any air is removed to prevent mold and yellowing. This method can cost between $200 to $400, including the initial cleaning. It is a good option for long-term storage as it protects the dress from the elements and insect damage.
Museum-Style Display Box:
For those who wish to display their dress, a museum-style display box can be an attractive option. The dress is first cleaned and treated, then mounted on a mannequin or form and placed inside a custom-made, UV-protected display box. This method can cost upwards of $500, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the display.
Professional Preservation Services:
There are also specialized wedding dress preservation companies that offer a range of services, including inspection, cleaning, anti-sugar stain treatment (to remove any hidden sugar stains that may yellow over time), and packaging. These companies often provide a guarantee against yellowing and damage, and their services can cost between $300 to $600.
It is worth noting that the cost of preservation is an investment in the longevity of the dress. While it may seem expensive, it can ensure that the gown remains in good condition for future generations. When considering the cost, it is also important to factor in any emotional value attached to the dress and the potential for it to become a family heirloom.
Overall, the cost of preserving a wedding dress can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the chosen method and the level of service desired. It is an important step in ensuring the dress remains a cherished keepsake for years to come.
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Dry cleaning vs preservation
Preserving a wedding dress means undergoing a special cleaning and packaging process to ensure the garment retains its quality and beauty for years to come. This is often done by brides who wish to save their dress for their child's future wedding or an anniversary vow renewal.
Dry cleaning a wedding dress is a standard cleaning process that uses a one-size-fits-all approach. While dry cleaning can help to remove stains and dirt from the fabric, it does not guarantee the long-term preservation of the dress. Dry cleaning may also use solvents that contain impurities, which can redeposit onto the fabric and leave an unpleasant smell. Additionally, dry cleaning does not typically include the use of acid-free materials for packaging, which can affect the fabric over time.
On the other hand, wedding dress preservation is a more specialized process that begins with an expert's evaluation of the dress. The specialist will examine the fabric, stitching, and any stains or damage, and create a customized treatment plan. Preservation uses highly specialized materials, such as acid-free boxes and tissue paper, to ensure the physical and chemical stability of the fabric over time. Preservationists will also repair any broken hems, beading, or other details, ensuring the dress is returned to its original condition.
The cost of dry cleaning a wedding dress can vary, but it is generally less expensive than preservation. Dry cleaning may be sufficient if you are planning to wear the dress again in the near future or if you are not concerned about long-term preservation. However, if you wish to pass down your dress to future generations or maintain its beauty for years to come, preservation is the better option.
It is important to note that not all dry cleaners are created equal when it comes to wedding dress preservation. Some dry cleaners may advertise wedding preservation services but only provide basic dry cleaning and packaging. It is crucial to research the process and credentials of any dry cleaner or preservationist you consider, to ensure they have the expertise and specialized materials required for proper wedding dress preservation.
In conclusion, while dry cleaning can remove stains and dirt from a wedding dress, preservation is the best option for those who wish to maintain the dress's quality and beauty over time. Preservation uses specialized materials and techniques to ensure the fabric's long-term stability, and it is performed by experienced specialists who can create a customized treatment plan for your dress.
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The preservation process
It is important to note that preservationists may advise against sealing the box completely, as this can risk trapping moisture and contaminants with the fabric. However, if a company does seal the box, it typically means that breaking the seal will break the guarantee. Therefore, if someone wishes to wear or upcycle the dress, it will need to be preserved again.
The entire preservation process can take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks, with the actual treatment taking up to two weeks. The cost of preservation varies depending on the gown and location, ranging from $250 to $1000. Some companies offer guarantees, typically for a lifetime or up to 100 years, which allow for a free retreatment if new stains or yellowing appear during the guaranteed time.
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Storage
The best way to store a wedding dress long-term is to use a paper board box and tissue that are acid-free. Acid-free tissue paper is used to support all folds and portions of the dress, like the skirt, sleeves, and bust. The dress is then placed in an acid-free textile conservation storage box for long-term safekeeping. Acid-free storage is important as it promotes the long-term chemical and physical integrity of the dress.
Some people use plastic to store the gown, which is detrimental to the fabric. Ordinary boxes that are only pH-neutral are also not as safe for your wedding gown. According to experts, these boxes can "re-acidify because the neutralizer is water-soluble and will dissolve".
It is also recommended to keep the gown in a wedding chest made of oriented polyester. This is a chemically inert material that will not yellow or damage the wedding gown. The window contains no plasticizers and does not transmit oils, greases, or volatile aromatics. It will also withstand extreme temperatures ranging from 70 degrees.
It is important to keep the wedding gown away from light and air to avoid oxidation of the fabric. The dress should be stored in a cool, dark place away from humidity. A closet or under a bed are good options.
It is also important to note that wedding dresses should not be stored in an airtight box. Contrary to what some may recommend, the box can be opened and the dress handled carefully. If the gown is sealed in a box, it typically cannot be unsealed without breaking the guarantee.
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Repurpose or resell
Preserving a wedding dress typically involves taking steps to ensure its longevity and prevent deterioration. One option for dress preservation is to repurpose or resell the gown. This is an especially great option if you're not too keen on holding on to your wedding dress for sentimental reasons or if you're looking to make some extra cash. Here are some ideas to consider:
Repurpose the Dress
You can give your wedding dress a new lease of life by transforming it into something else. This could be a christening gown for your child or a special occasion dress for yourself. You could also frame a portion of the dress, such as the bodice or a particularly intricate part of the skirt, as a wall decoration. Another idea is to use the fabric to create something entirely different, such as a pillow, a quilt, or even a piece of art. If you're feeling creative, you could try your hand at dyeing the dress a new color, giving it a completely new look.
Resell the Dress
If you no longer wish to keep your wedding dress, reselling it is an option. There is a market for pre-owned wedding dresses, and you could make another bride very happy by providing an affordable, yet still special, gown. You could also sell the dress to a specialist company that will hire it out to brides looking for a budget option. Another option is to sell the dress fabric, especially if it is a high-quality, sought-after material.
There are many online platforms and consignment stores that specialize in reselling wedding dresses. When creating a listing, be sure to include detailed photographs, a description of the dress, and any relevant information such as the designer, style, and year it was purchased. It is also important to be honest about any alterations, stains, or damage to the dress.
Whether you choose to repurpose or resell your wedding dress, you are giving it a new life and ensuring that the memories and happiness associated with it continue on. These options also provide an opportunity for sustainability and reducing waste, as the dress is being reused and loved again instead of sitting in storage or, worse, ending up in a landfill.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment will retain its quality for years to come. It involves removing stains, repairing broken hems and beading, and housing the dress in an acid-free box with acid-free tissue to support all folds.
There are many reasons to preserve your wedding dress. You may want to pass it down as an heirloom, upcycle it into accessories or an evening dress, frame it as a piece of art, or sell it on to a new bride. Preserving your dress will ensure it stays in pristine condition and retains its value.
The cost of preserving a wedding dress can vary depending on the gown and location, but you can expect to pay between $250 to $700. Prices can go as high as $1,000 for heavily beaded or designer gowns.
