- By Cassidy Sheehan, CTW Features
- Category: Fashions, Jewelry, Accessories for Men & Women

A wedding day is filled to the brim with sentimental moments and keepsakes, one specifically being the bride’s wedding dress. It’s no secret wedding dresses are a hefty financial investment for a one-time event; therefore, one might wonder how to preserve these dresses for the future. Luckily, we have the inside scoop to shed light on how this process works, and the do’s and don'ts.
1. Did You Know?
Interesting fact: wedding dresses are uniquely and authentically designed; therefore, they can’t be cleaned like regular clothing. Because of the intricate details, it’s important to look out for any cleaning instructions included on the label tags or instructions that come with the dress.
2. What is Dress Preservation?
Dress preservation, by definition, is a series of special cleaning and packing techniques to ensure the garment will retain its quality. A cleaning specialist will first access the dress and consult with the customer regarding the necessary process, procedures and any precautions that need to be taken.
3. What’s the Cost?
The pricing of preservation varies depending upon the materials in the dress, but it’s a significant expense that should be woven into the wedding budget. According to Brides.com, the average preservation kit costs between $250.00 and $400.00.
4. What are the Risks?
If you decide to not take the steps to preserve your wedding dress, a few potential difficulties could be discoloration of the fabric, brown oxidation spots, mold and mildew growth and permanent fabric creasing. Additionally, keep in mind that making a final decision on whether to preserve it or not is of the essence. Once stains set in, it will be difficult and nearly impossible to preserve it.
©CTW Features