Even wedding dresses that have been sitting around for decades can benefit from an expert cleaning.  But the best way to preserve your dress is to clean it as soon as possible after your wedding – ideally even before you jet off on your honeymoon. This will help prevent stains from setting in and becoming permanent. Even stains that you can’t see, like perspiration, can immediately start to damage the delicate fabric of a wedding dress.

Gowns should be cleaned by a wedding dress specialist who understands the unique complexities of wedding dress cleaning.

After proper cleaning, wedding dresses should be stored flat or folded (not on a hanger because the material will stretch over time). Don't store the dress in direct contact with any wood fiber  - like cedar or cardboard - as this will result in a stain. (Acid-free paper between your dress and the box will prevent this). And make sure that air can circulate around the dress so that the fabric fibers have room to breathe (plastic bags and vacuum sealing are out).

The actual storage location should be a temperature controlled (no extremes) room and away from direct sunlight.

If you like, you can remove the dress from storage and air it out once every couple of years to check its condition. It is a good idea to wear white cotton gloves when you do. (Resist the temptation to put it on so that any oils on your skin aren’t transferred to the dress).

Of course, we believe it is better to sell your beautiful dress and let another bride enjoy it.  Cleaning your dress properly will help you sell it and will enable its "second showing" to be a stunning as its first.