Wedding Dress Preservation FAQs

Your wedding gown is more than just a FABRIC - It's a LEGACY. You walk down the aisle in it, share countless photos with it, and dance the night away. It is a symbol of your LOVE STORY, a memory, and a treasure. But what happens when your big day comes is over?How do you preserve your cherished wedding gown? And, how do you ensure that it stays as stunning as the day you wore it? If you have found yourself thinking about how to protect your dress from wear and tear, all the brides out there have the same question. We are here to answer all of those. So, get ready to know from the very beginning - what is involved and the expert tips to ensure that your dress remains as timeless as your memories.

Wedding Dress Safety Shipping

Will my wedding gown be safe during the shipping process?

Yes, your wedding gown will be completely safe during the shipping process! Our high-quality, waterproof, crush-proof, and heavy-duty military-grade shipping box ensures that your gown stays protected during transit. The safety of your wedding gown is our top priority, so you can rest assured knowing that your gown will be treated with the same care as you would.

How do I ship my wedding dress if it's too heavy or bulky?

You can easily ship your wedding dress, even if it is bulky or heavy due to multiple layers, embellishments, or a full silhouette. We ensure that your gown is packed securely and protected through our custom packaging, designed specifically to accommodate dresses of all sizes and weights, typically ranging from 3 to 7 pounds or more.

What are the dimensions of the box that comes with the wedding dress shipping kit?

The box included in the shipping kit has the standard size of 18" x 18" x 18", which is suitable for most sizes and styles of wedding gowns. However, in case your gown doesn’t fit in our shipping box, you may use our shipping label with any shipping box, and we will cover any additional fees.

Can I box my own wedding dress?

Absolutely! Make sure to fold your dress carefully and gently using the acid-neutral tissue paper, and place it inside a sturdy, secure box. To help with any uncertainties, our shipping kit includes all the essentials and clear instructions for appropriate packing and shipping.

Is it safe to ship a wedding dress?

Yes! Trusting our expert services, with a century of experience, means that shipping your wedding dress is entirely safe. Our secure packaging and tracking system provides you with additional peace of mind, so that you can rest easy knowing that your dress is safe in transit.

How long does it take to ship my order?

You will receive our shipping kit within 2-5 business days of placing your order with us. Once you’ve received our kit, simply follow the instructions to pack your gown and send it to us carefully. The cleaning and preservation process of your gown takes about 6-8 weeks, after which we’ll ship your gown back to you. You will receive your cleaned and preserved gown in another 2-5 business days.

Is it OK to fold a wedding dress while shipping?

Yes,  folding your wedding gown for shipping is totally safe, as long as it is packed securely.

How much would it cost to ship a dress?

When you choose our services, shipping your wedding dress becomes a simple, stress-free, and affordable process. We offer complimentary 2-way shipping, so you just need to follow your simple packaging instructions and let us take care of the rest.

How to transport a wedding dress without wrinkles?

We offer everything you need, to transport your wedding dress safely and free of wrinkles. Out shipping kit includes a crush-proof and water-resistant corrugated shipping container, a waterproof poly shipping bag, and commercial-grade packaging tape.

Insurance & Shipping

How will I take my gown for your cleaning and preservation service?

Once your order is confirmed, we’ll send you a specialized shipping kit designed to keep your gown secure in transit. Simply pack your gown following the step-by-step guide, and from there, we’ll handle the entire process — pickup, preservation, and safe return delivery to your door.

Is there a possibility that my wedding gown could be lost or stolen during transit?

We completely understand how priceless your gown is. Although shipping mishaps are rare, we include insurance and provide secure tracking to help protect against any risk of loss or theft. From the moment your gown leaves your hands to the moment it returns, you can count on it being covered and secure.

Will you inform me when my gown reaches your facility?

Yes! As soon as your gown arrives, our team carefully inspects and unpacks it, assigning it a unique ID number. With this number, you can check in on your gown through our GownTrackerâ„¢ system, giving you updates on its progress whenever you like.

Do you outsource any phase of the cleaning and preservation procedure?

No — every step of the cleaning and preservation takes place under our own roof, handled by our trained professionals. This way, your gown benefits from complete quality oversight and dedicated attention from start to finish.

Can I use one address and ship it to another address?

Absolutely. Inside your shipping kit, you’ll find an order form where you can list a different return address. Share your preferences with us, and we’ll coordinate everything to make sure your gown is delivered right where you want it.

Dry Cleaning & Preservation Procedure

Is it too late to get my wedding dress preserved?

It’s never too late to preserve your wedding dress — no matter how many years have passed. With the Restoration Wedding Dress Preservation Kit, our specialists can bring back the beauty of gowns that are more than 20 years old, helping you protect their charm for the future.

Should I preserve wedding day accessories?

Definitely! Items like veils, gloves, and sashes deserve the same care as your gown. Preserving them helps prevent yellowing and damage, so your full bridal look stays complete and well-protected. Even better, we include cleaning and preservation for up to five accessories at no additional charge.

What is the difference between cleaning and preserving a wedding dress?

Cleaning focuses on removing dirt and stains from your gown using gentle, safe methods. Preservation, however, goes further by combining cleaning with protective storage to shield your gown from aging or damage over time, keeping it in beautiful condition for years to come.

How long does a wedding dress stay preserved?

When properly preserved, your wedding gown can stay stunning for a century or even longer. At DressPreservation, we support this with a 100-year warranty to ensure your dress remains perfect for generations to enjoy.

What is the process of dry cleaning a wedding dress?

We use SYSTEMK4 technology to care for your gown, including PRENETTK4 for stain treatment, CLIPK4 detergent for delicate cleaning, and VINOYK4 to help repel water and future stains. This safe and advanced process keeps your dress fresh and beautifully preserved for years ahead.

How do I clean and preserve a wedding dress?

The best way to care for your wedding dress is by trusting a professional preservation service like WeddingDress Preservation. After expertly cleaning your gown, we’ll place it in a premium acid-free preservation chest. Once preserved, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place at home to keep it safe for years to come.

How much does it cost to clean and preserve a wedding dress?

Pricing can vary depending on your gown’s condition and the level of care you choose. We offer a range of kits that include everything from deep cleaning and minor repairs to complete preservation. Reach out to us for a custom quote based on your gown’s unique needs.

Can I preserve my wedding dress 10 years later?

Absolutely! It’s never too late to preserve your dress. Whether it’s been 10 years or 50, our team specializes in restoring and preserving gowns of any age to help them look their best for the future.

Can I open my preserved wedding dress?

You can certainly open the chest to admire or check on your dress. However, avoid removing it completely from the preservation chest, as this could void the 100-year warranty included with your preservation.

Is wedding dress preservation worth it?

Without question! Preserving your wedding dress is a wise investment that shields it from yellowing, stains, and potential damage. It helps you safeguard a priceless memory and keep it beautiful for generations to come.

Preservation Kit Packaging

What is a wedding dress preservation box?

A wedding dress preservation box is a specially crafted container that shields your gown from light, moisture, dust, insects, and other potential damage. It helps maintain every delicate detail of your dress while protecting it from fading, yellowing, and fabric deterioration over time.

What is the preservation box made out of?

At DressPreservation, our premium preservation chests are crafted from high-quality, acid-free, and lignin-free materials. These well-ventilated boxes are designed to be breathable and gentle on fabrics, providing an ideal environment to keep your gown looking its best for years to come.

Cleaning the Wedding Gown

Can I wash my wedding dress myself at home?

It’s best not to wash your wedding dress at home. These gowns are made from delicate fabrics and intricate details that require professional care. Regular washing could damage beading, lace, or fine materials, so it’s far safer to trust experts who know exactly how to handle wedding dresses.

Is it worth getting a wedding dress cleaned?

Absolutely! Even if your gown looks spotless, hidden stains and body oils can cause long-term damage. Professional cleaning restores its beauty and helps maintain its value, so it stays perfect for years to come.

Is it better to wash or dry clean a wedding dress?

Dry cleaning is definitely the safer choice. Washing your wedding dress with water can cause it to shrink or damage delicate fabrics and decorations. Dry cleaning, on the other hand, uses gentle, non-water-based solutions that preserve the gown’s structure and intricate details.

How quickly should I get my wedding dress cleaned after the wedding?

You should have your dress cleaned as soon as possible after your big day. The longer you wait, the more likely stains are to set and become harder to remove, potentially damaging the fabric. Acting quickly is the best way to protect your gown.

What chemicals do you use while cleaning the gown?

We use advanced SYSTEMK4 technology, which includes VINOYK4 to repel water and stains, PRENETTK4 to protect delicate fabrics, and CLIPK4 as a gentle dry-cleaning detergent designed specifically for wedding gowns.

Preservation, Repair, and Restoration

Can I wear a wedding dress after it has been preserved?

Yes, you absolutely can wear your wedding dress again after preservation. Just remember to handle it carefully once you remove it from the preservation chest, and try to avoid exposing it to harsh conditions that could damage the delicate fabrics.

Can I preserve my wedding dress at home?

While a basic form of home preservation is possible, it won’t offer long-lasting protection. Professional preservation is highly recommended to shield your gown from stains, yellowing, and damage for decades to come.

Do dry cleaners preserve wedding dresses?

Some dry cleaners do provide preservation services, but their process may not be as specialized or thorough as that of a dedicated wedding dress preservation service.

What happens if I open a preserved wedding dress?

Opening the preservation box and removing your dress can compromise the protective seal and expose the gown to potential damage. Unless absolutely necessary, it’s best to keep the dress sealed in its preservation box to maintain its pristine condition.

How long can I wait to get my wedding dress preserved?

Ideally, you should have your gown preserved within just a few days after the wedding. The longer you wait, the higher the risk that stains and discoloration will set in, making it much harder to clean and protect your gown for the long term.

What happens if I don’t get my wedding dress preserved?

Skipping professional preservation leaves your gown vulnerable to yellowing, fabric weakening, discoloration, permanent stains, and damage to delicate details. Preserving your dress is the best way to protect its beauty for years to come.

How much does it cost to restore a wedding dress?

Restoring a wedding gown typically starts at $400, though the price may vary depending on any customizations or special requests you include in your order.

Can an old wedding dress be restored?

Yes, absolutely! Older wedding gowns can be beautifully restored by professionals like our team at DressPreservation. With expert care, we can refresh aged fabrics, remove yellowing, repair embellishments, and help your gown look stunning again.

Gown Yellowing

Why do wedding dresses turn yellow?

Wedding dresses can yellow over time due to exposure to light, air, and natural oils from your skin. Stains from makeup, sweat, perfume, food, and drinks can also set in and cause discoloration if the dress isn’t properly cleaned and preserved.

Can you get yellowing out of a wedding dress?

Yes, absolutely! Our specialists have the skills and experience to remove yellowing safely. Using advanced cleaning techniques, they can restore your dress’s original brightness without harming delicate fabrics or embellishments.

Can you make a yellowed dress white again?

Yes, it’s entirely possible! Our experts carefully inspect the gown and use advanced cleaning solutions to lift yellow stains while protecting the fabric’s integrity and details.

How do you get yellow out of a vintage wedding dress?

For a vintage gown, it’s always best to turn to professionals. They know how to treat aged fabrics and delicate embellishments gently, restoring the dress’s color without causing additional damage.

What is the best yellow stain remover?

While household options like oxygen bleach or hydrogen peroxide may work on minor stains, yellowing on a wedding dress is best handled by professionals. DIY attempts can damage delicate fabrics, so expert cleaning is the safer choice for major discoloration.

How do you store a wedding dress to prevent yellowing?

To keep your wedding dress from yellowing, store it in a cool, dry, and dark location. An acid-free preservation box offers excellent protection from light, air, and dust. Avoid humid spaces like attics or basements to help maintain your gown’s pristine condition.

Can old yellow stains be removed?

Yes, old yellow stains can definitely be removed. At DressPreservation, our skilled experts and advanced SystemK4 technology work together to treat and lift even long-standing stains safely and effectively.

How long does it take for a wedding dress to yellow?

A wedding dress can begin to yellow in just a few months if it isn’t properly preserved. Factors such as light exposure, humidity, and natural body oils speed up discoloration. Preserving your gown sooner helps maintain its brightness for years to come.

Does vinegar remove yellow stains?

While vinegar is sometimes used for minor household stain removal, it’s not ideal for wedding dresses. Professional cleaning is much safer, as experts use solutions specifically designed to treat delicate fabrics without risk of damage.

Does hydrogen peroxide remove yellow stains?

Hydrogen peroxide can work on yellow stains, but it’s a strong chemical that should only be handled by professionals. Using it incorrectly could fade or damage your gown, so it’s always best to trust an expert for cleaning delicate wedding dresses.

Storage

Should you vacuum-seal your wedding dress?

Vacuum-sealing is not recommended for wedding dresses. Compressing delicate fabrics this way can create permanent creases or damage intricate details over time.

Can I store my wedding dress in a plastic bag?

No, plastic bags are not suitable for storing wedding gowns. They trap moisture and restrict airflow, which can lead to mildew, yellowing, or fabric deterioration. Instead, choose a preservation box made with breathable materials to keep your gown safe.

How do you store an expensive wedding dress?

For a high-value or couture wedding gown, it’s best to use a premium acid-free preservation chest. At DressPreservation, our Couture Wedding Gown Preservation Kit is specially designed for luxury dresses, protecting them from light, dust, and pests for years to come.

Is it better to store a wedding dress hanging or flat?

For long-term storage, it’s generally best to store your wedding dress flat. Hanging it for extended periods can stretch or distort the fabric, while flat storage helps maintain its original shape and prevents stress on delicate areas.

How do you store a wedding dress for one year?

If you plan to store your gown for a year, have it professionally cleaned first. Then place it in a breathable, acid-free preservation box to shield it from dust, humidity, and light. Store the box in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.

Can I store my preserved wedding dress in the attic?

It’s not recommended to keep your preserved wedding dress in the attic. Attics often have extreme temperature swings and high humidity, which can harm the fabric over time. A better choice is a cool, dry, dark, climate-controlled space for safe storage.

What is the best inexpensive way to store a wedding dress long term?

An acid-free preservation box is a budget-friendly yet highly effective way to store your gown for the long term. It shields your dress from dust, light, and moisture. Keep the box in a cool, dark area to help maintain your dress in excellent condition for years.

Can I put my wedding dress in a shadow box?

A shadow box can look beautiful for display, but it’s not the best option for long-term protection. Glass can trap moisture, and light exposure may cause yellowing over time. If you’d like to display your dress, consider preserving it in a proper box first to protect it, then display it safely.

How should I store a wedding dress before the wedding?

Before the big day, store your gown in a cool, dry space, ideally hanging in a breathable garment bag. Keep it away from heat sources, humidity, and direct sunlight. If possible, hang it where it won’t be handled or disturbed until you’re ready to wear it.

How do you store a wedding dress at home?

At home, the best way to store your dress is in a cool, dry, and dark place. Use a breathable garment bag or an acid-free preservation box to protect it from dust, sunlight, and moisture. Avoid cramped or humid areas to keep your gown in pristine shape.