10 Things To Do Before Preserving Your Wedding Dress (NY Brides)
Your wedding dress is probably one of the most special (and maybe expensive!) outfits you'll ever wear. It holds memories of your big day — joy, love, and a new chapter in life. But what happens to it after the wedding?
Some brides choose to donate, sell, or even trash their dress. But if you're thinking about keeping it safe as a memory — or for your daughter someday — preservation is the way to go. And if you're looking for the best wedding preservation company in New York, there’s a recommendation coming up.
Wedding gowns are made with delicate lace, beads, and fine fabrics. That’s why proper care is so important. Not sure how or where to preserve your dress? Don’t worry — we’ve got the essential DOs and DON’Ts to help you get started.
1. Don’t try to clean stains with harsh chemicals or bleach.
Even if you're tempted to fix a spot yourself, avoid using anything strong like bleach. Wedding dresses are delicate — with lace, pearls, or netting — and these fabrics can get damaged easily. If you must do something, gently dab with plain water, but leave the real cleaning to professionals.
2. Always read the label on your dress.
The care label has important information about how your dress should be cleaned. It will also help your dry cleaner know the right method and tools to use, especially for special fabrics.
3. Time matters — act fast!
Don’t wait too long after your big day. Get your dress to a dry cleaner before your honeymoon, if possible. Stains from sweat, sugar, or drinks can get worse over time — even if they’re not visible right away. Early cleaning helps prevent yellowing or damage later.
4. Let the professionals handle the preservation.
If you want to keep your dress looking beautiful for years, it’s best to leave it to the experts. They know exactly how to treat delicate fabrics and preserve all the special details, so your gown stays just as stunning as it was on your wedding day.
5. Always handle your dress with clean hands.
When you touch your dress — whether after preserving or just to admire it — make sure your hands are clean. Wearing white cotton gloves is even better to avoid leaving any oils or dirt behind.
6. Use the right storage box.
Store your gown in a special acid-free, pH-neutral box that protects it from yellowing. The box should be airtight to control moisture. A viewing window is a great bonus so you can admire the dress without opening the box every time.
7. Wrap your dress the right way.
When storing your gown, never use plastic wrap — it can trap moisture and cause mold. Always wrap it in acid-free tissue paper. Avoid using colored paper, too, as it might stain or discolor the fabric over time.
8. Pick the perfect storage spot.
Keep your dress away from direct sunlight — it can fade the fabric. Avoid places like attics, garages, or basements where temperatures and humidity fluctuate. A cool, dark, and dry space is ideal.
9. Be careful when hanging your dress.
Hanging a wedding dress for too long can stretch or damage it, especially if it’s heavy. If you must hang it, use a padded hanger and loop it through the gown’s interior straps (not the sleeves or shoulders) to reduce stress on the fabric.
10. Check online wedding dress preservation services.
These days, you don’t even have to leave home to preserve your gown! Many professional companies offer online services where they clean, steam, and pack your dress in an acid-free preservation box, then ship it right to your door.
It’s safe, convenient, and designed to protect your gown for years. If you're a bride wondering where to preserve your wedding dress in New York, you're in luck — the city is home to some of the most trusted experts in fabric care. One such company ix Dress Preservation.
Finally…
Your wedding dress holds memories that last a lifetime. If you’re not ready to part with it, preserving it is a beautiful way to keep it safe for yourself or future generations. Just follow these tips, and your dress will stay as timeless as your big day.