Wedding Dress Preservation... Everything You Need to Know

After countless fittings and finally walking down the aisle in the gown of your dreams, it can be tough to part with something so meaningful. The good news? You don’t have to. While some brides choose to donate, sell, or repurpose their gowns into cocktail dresses or lingerie, many opt to preserve their wedding dress—a thoughtful way to protect a cherished piece of their love story for generations to come.

Four brides

What Is Wedding Dress Preservation?

Wedding dress preservation is more than just dry cleaning. It’s a specialized process that includes expert cleaning, careful stain treatment, and long-term packaging using acid-free materials. The goal is to maintain the fabric’s physical and chemical stability over time. Once the dress is restored, it’s carefully folded with special tissue to support delicate areas like the skirt, sleeves, and bodice, then stored in an acid-free box.

Glowing dress

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices typically range from $250 to $1,000, depending on your location and how much work your dress requires. Make sure to factor this into your overall wedding budget.

Preservation vs. Standard Dry Cleaning

Not all cleaners are created equal. While many claim to specialize in wedding gowns, standard dry cleaning often means a one-size-fits-all method with generic solvents and materials that can harm delicate fabrics. Proper preservation starts with an expert assessment and a custom plan based on your gown’s fabric, embellishments, and stains.

If you consider a dry cleaner, vet them thoroughly. Ask about their training, how many gowns they clean annually, whether they guarantee their work, and if they can provide references from designers or bridal boutiques. Also, make sure their cleaning solvents are gentle and free from impurities that can cause odor or discoloration.

Preserved dress

Key Wedding Dress Preservation Tips

1. Leave It to the ProsPreservation is not a DIY project. Trust only experienced professionals to handle this delicate process.

2. Act QuicklyThe sooner your gown is cleaned, the better. Ideally, hand it over immediately after the wedding. If you’re heading on a honeymoon, assign someone you trust to take it in.

3. Address All Stains—Even the Invisible OnesPreservationists are trained to detect and treat both visible and hidden stains—like wine, makeup, dirt, and even sugar or oils that may not show right away. Many of these stains soak deep into the fibers, making timely treatment crucial.

4. Airtight Boxes Are a No-GoContrary to popular belief, your gown should not be sealed in an airtight box. True preservation allows the dress to breathe. Boxes should be opened periodically—ideally once a year—to ensure the dress remains in good condition.

5. Handle With Clean Hands (or Gloves)When you do open the box, wear white cotton gloves or wash your hands thoroughly. This prevents oils from transferring to the fabric. Always repackage the dress using the original acid-free materials.

6. Store It SmartNever store your preserved gown in an attic or basement. Choose a cool, dark, dry place within your main living space—like a closet shelf. Moderate temperature and humidity are key to keeping your dress pristine.

With the right care and professional guidance, your wedding dress can become a beautiful heirloom, preserved to reflect the joy, love, and memories of your special day.