– MONTREAL WEDDING DRESSES –

Wedding Dress Cleaning & Preservation Tips

PHOTOGRAPHS: INHOUSE

Written by: Let’s Get Married Editor

Updated on 21/10/23

Dress Cleaning and dress preservation play a crucial role in maintaining the beauty and sentimental value of a Montreal wedding dress, often treasured as an heirloom passed down through generations. Whether you plan to wear it again or preserve it as a family legacy, here are some tips on caring for your gown before and after your Montreal wedding day.

Pre-Wedding Dress Storage in Montreal

Before the big day, avoid hanging your dress for extended periods, especially if it features a full skirt or embellishments. Hanging can distort the neckline and length. Store your dress away from direct sunlight and elements that might cause stains or discoloration.

Wedding Day Care in Montreal

Accidents happen, but don’t fret if you spill something on your Montreal wedding dress. Have baby powder or cornstarch at the ready for quick cleaning fixes. Gently dab the stain with a clean cotton cloth, apply the powder to absorb the liquid, and brush it lightly with a dull-edged knife or soft bristle brush for a last-minute cleaning rescue. Avoid other stain removers as they can worsen the situation.

Wedding Dress Dry Cleaning vs. Preservation

In Montreal, dress dry cleaning focuses on removing stains and soil with chemical treatment, while dress preservation combines cleaning with safe storage in acid-free tissue paper and a textile conservation box. If you plan to wear your Montreal wedding dress soon, basic cleaning suffices. However, if you aim for long-term dress preservation, repurposing, or passing it on, choose preservation for your Montreal wedding dress.

Timely Preservation in Montreal

Don’t wait too long to preserve your wedding dress in Montreal. Prolonged delay exposes it to damage from sunlight and oxidation. Stains and oils, such as sugar and champagne, may not be immediately visible but can emerge over time. Keep your gown in a cool, dark, and dry place before cleaning to slow down oxidation. Start the dress preservation process within three months of the wedding to prevent hidden stains from setting.

Fabrics and Embellishments

Different fabrics and embellishments have unique preservation needs. Beaded wedding gowns with metal settings can oxidize and discolor quickly. Natural fabrics like silk develop a lovely patina when properly cleaned and stored.

Preservation Costs in Montreal

The cost of preserving a wedding dress in Montreal varies based on the gown’s condition, pre-preservation storage, and complexity. Prices range from $170 to $1,000, with an average preservation cost of around $250.

Preservation Timeframe in Montreal

On average, it takes four to six weeks to preserve a wedding dress in Montreal. The actual dress preservation process requires about three hours, while a restoration process can take up to two weeks.

Proper Storage for Preserved Gowns in Montreal

Preserved wedding dresses are delivered in specialized storage boxes. Be cautious of “acid-free” cardboard boxes, which may re-acidify over time. Keep the box flat in a cool, dark, and dry place with consistent humidity. A closet shelf or under the bed will suffice in most Montreal homes. Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations to maintain the dress preservation process.

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Photo by: Debelle Photography

PRO TIP

Preserving your Montreal wedding dress is essential to safeguard its beauty and sentimental value. Act promptly, choose the right dress preservation method, and store your wedding gown with care to ensure it remains a cherished family heirloom.