After the wedding day is over, it is time to start preserving your keepsakes. While the actual wedding day might only be a few hours long, you will certainly want the memories to last forever, and one of the most important keepsakes is the dress. After all, you spent months agonizing over the decision and getting fitted into your perfect gown, so why wouldn’t you want to preserve it in all its glory. Cleaning a wedding dress is a bit of a complicated process, but don’t worry we are going to teach you everything you need to know about the process.
When should I clean a wedding dress?
Most experts agree that a wedding gown should be cleaned as soon after the wedding day as possible. While it is likely fine to wait until you return from a honeymoon to drop off your gown, the sooner it is brought into the cleaner the better. If you plan on taking a lengthy trip immediately after your wedding day, ask a friend or relative to drop off the gown to the cleaners. A quick turnaround ensures the cleaning process will be successful. This is doubly important if your dress has been stained during the reception.
How is the dress cleaned?
How a professional decides to clean a wedding dress will depend on several factors, including the level of staining, the material of the dress and the age of the gown. In most cases, a preservationist will spot treat stains, then use dry cleaning methods to get the rest of the glow clean and sparkling.
Heavily stained gowns, or those made from hardier materials may go through a wet cleaning process. This process allows the cleaner to use gentle detergents to pull visible and invisible stains from the dress. Wet cleaning is carefully executed to avoid any damage to the material.
How will my dress be packaged?
How your dress will be returned after the cleaning process will depend on the package you’ve chosen and what you’ve discussed with the preservationist you are working with. Some dresses will be packaged in an acid-free special box with special paper to ensure it doesn’t deteriorate. The box may or may not be sealed to ensure safe keeping of the dress. You may also choose a box that has a window for easy viewing. Some brides are choosing to encase their dress in glass frames, so it can be hung as artwork. Discuss your options with your preservationist.
How long will the process take?
The dress cleaning process, from start to finish, will vary between professionals and their current workload. Experts suggest expecting an eight week wait as a minimum after you drop off your dress, although some brides will experience shorter or longer wait times. How long the cleaning takes will depend on the professional company you have used, the type of staining on your gown, the material of your gown, and the type of preservation you’ve chosen. Ask questions before you drop off your gown.
Can I clean a wedding dress at home?
It is not advised. Cleaning your dress at home is a risky process, and the delicate materials of a wedding gown will not stand up to traditional cleaning methods. Preservation at home is also difficult, and it is possible to damage the dress during the cleaning process. Wedding experts suggest attempting the cleaning process at home.
Congratulations on your big day. Remember, your dress should be filled with memories, and preserving those memories is the first step in your journey as man and wife.
