Wedding Gown FAQ's

Why get my gown cleaned right away?

An International Fabricare Institute study gown stains and aging found that fresh stains are easiest to remove. Tannin and sugar stains (most drinks) are most difficult to remove. After one week, the study reported that 20.3% of stains could not be removed satisfactorily; after three weeks, 46.9% could not be removed satisfactorily, and after nine weeks, only stains that did not oxidize could be removed completely in an ordinary (non-restoration) cleaning process.

I've heard that blue tissue is the best for preserving wedding gowns - is it?

Absolutely NOT! Use only white acid-free unbuffered tissue, made without alum or other acid-producing sizings, and free of alkaline buffering agents such as calcium carbonate. Coloured tissue is not acid-free, and the dye from the tissue can discolour the gown gets damp or during times of high humidity. Acid-free tissue helps absorb acids from the gown, and from the gown's surroundings.

How much acid-free tissue does a gown need?

It depends on the size of the gown. Ideally, each layer of fabric should have tissue separating it from the next layer. A large gown with lots of layers needs a LOT of tissue!

Why do bust pads and metal hooks have to be removed before long-term storage?

Foam bust pads deteriorate and darken, emitting acid fumes, and discolouring any fabric that is touching the foam. Metal hooks and buttons can rust over time. If your gown has aluminum or plastic buttons, these may be left on - but stainless steel has to go!

Is it too late if my gown has been left uncleaned for months or years?

Not usually! Most gowns can be restored if the fabric is not too badly damaged. Silk is more susceptible to perspiration stains than polyester, and these stains can be incredibly tough to remove. If a silk gown has underarm stains that have yellowed or gone brown, they may be indelible. The good news is that most polyester gowns can be restored completely (unless there is fibre damage, of course). Restoration is a time-consuming and costly process, though. Better to clean and preserve your gown in the first place!