Finding effective ways for wedding dress preservation can be difficult but below are a couple of smart and easy tips to help you with that dilemma.
Generally, gown preservation refers to the special method of cleaning and packaging done to preserve its form, color and beauty. More often than not, people have this professionally done for a price ranging from $120-$400. After your dress is examined (fabric, embellishment, and material-wise), a specialized procedure for cleaning is applied. Stains and odor are removed before they are wrapped up for storage.
Now in the seemingly long process, certain preserving chemicals can be introduced which are carried out by these professionals. If you are the person on a relatively tight budget you may try these DIY means of wedding dress preservation.
Preserving that special gown – Cleaning
Various simple ways can be employed for wedding dress preservation. Although it is best to really leave it to the experts, there are some practical methods you can follow to make sure that wedding gown lasts for generations,
Before you keep or store that dress you need to make sure it is clean. Never attempt to clean or wash it yourself. It is recommended that you visit a dry cleaning after the wedding as soon as possible. Some stains are on certain fabrics can be harder to remove in prolonged periods of time. For example removing wine spills on silk can be more challenging if not tidied right away.
When you find the best professional dry cleaning service, inform them of the particulars – ornaments that are not sewn (rather attached by glue), loose stitches, stain obtained (spills, dirt or make-up smudges) and their particular areas. This will help them take extra care on the delicate parts and make sure that the dirty parts are cleaned thoroughly.
Preserving that special gown – Storing
You can ask your dry cleaner for a storage box, preferable one that is acid-free. You can use acid-free tissue paper to wrap your gown in or wrap it in a white sheet. Professionals recommend using pre-washed, unbleached muslin. A big no-no is wrapping it in plastic since this may cause mold to build-up in time. Another option (although least recommended) is sewing short straps on the bodice and hanging it on padded hangers still keeping it under a clean, white cotton sheet. Make sure you don’t use ordinary wooden or wire hangers as this can cause damage to your wedding dress.
Now after it is properly wrapped, you want to keep it in a temperate, dry place away from direct sunlight. This means hot attics or damp basements automatically are out of the choices. Light and heat can destroy that special dress.
Preserving that special gown – Maintenance
Your wedding dress preservation doesn’t end in storing it. You need to inspect that gown, preferably twice a year, to check for any discolored areas. Some stains appear only after a couple of months, or even years later. Make sure to bring your dress back for dry cleaning if you spot any. If you need a professional, check out http://www.fortworthweddinggownspecialist.com/