Congratulations on taking the first step towards preserving your beautiful wedding dress! Proper care and maintenance of your gown are essential in keeping it looking its best for many years.
Follow our 10 easy steps on how to clean your wedding dress so you can be sure that it will stay as stunning as ever:
Step 1: Preparation.
Before you start doing any cleaning, make sure to put down a plastic sheet or shower curtain liner on the floor and work in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This will help protect your dress from any damage or discolouration.
Step 2: Inspect And Remove Dirt/Stains.
Carefully examine the fabric for dirt, stains, or other blemishes that need to be addressed. If needed, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose particles before you begin cleaning.
Step 3: Test Cleaner On Small Area First.
Before using any cleaner on your wedding dress it’s important to test it first in an inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it won’t cause any discolouration or damage.
Step 5: Spot Cleaning.
If you notice any small stains on your gown, lightly dab a bit of detergent or soap directly onto the spot, using a soft cloth or sponge. Allow it to sit for several minutes and then gently wipe it away with cool water. Do not rub or scrub too aggressively as this could cause damage to the fabric. You may have to repeat this process if needed, but be sure to test a small inconspicuous area first before applying anything directly onto the dress.
Step 6: Hand Wash.
If you prefer, you can also hand wash your wedding dress in a sink filled with cool water and gentle detergent. Be sure to fill the basin with enough water so that your gown is completely submerged. Soak it for several minutes, and then swish the dress around gently in the water to get rid of any dirt or stains. Rinse thoroughly using cool water until the suds are no longer visible. Do not wring out your gown as this could cause damage to the fabric.
Step 7: Dry Time.
To dry your wedding dress, lay it flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight when drying as this could fade or discolour the fabric. If possible, hang up your gown by its straps or loops so that it can drip dry overnight. Otherwise, you may want to use a hair dryer set on low heat to speed up the process but be careful not to get it too close as this could shrink or damage the fabric. Once your dress is dry, gently steam or iron it to remove any wrinkles.
Step 8: Hang and Store.
Once your gown has been cleaned and dried, hang it in a breathable garment bag for storage. This will help keep dust away from the fabric and ensure that the colours stay vibrant. To further protect your wedding dress avoid storing it in plastic containers, damp basements, or other areas where humidity can build up which might cause mildew to form on the fabric.
Step 9: Professional Cleaning Services.
If you are having trouble getting rid of stains yourself or simply don’t have time to take care of your wedding dress on your own, you can always take it to a professional cleaner for help. Be sure to research cleaners in your area that specialize in wedding gowns so that you know your dress is being handled with care.
Check out Wedding dress cleaning.
Step 10: Regular Maintenance.
To keep your wedding dress looking and feeling like new, it’s important to get it cleaned regularly and inspect it for any damage or stains. Make sure to hang up the dress after wearing, it and store it away from areas of high humidity or extreme temperatures which could cause discolouration or mildew formation. With proper maintenance, you can keep your wedding gown looking beautiful for years to come!
By following these ten easy steps you can ensure that your wedding dress will remain as stunning and pristine as the day you got married. With regular cleanings and proper storage, your gown will be ready to commemorate that special day for years to come!
Good luck and happy cleaning!