Taking Care of Your Wedding Gown: Traveling & Cleaning

Transporting a custom piece can be very nerve wracking, especially when it's a dress you've been altering and designing especially for your big day. We completely understand this concern, and are here to help with many ways to keep your gown safe through traveling, cleaning, and storage, ensuring it still looks perfect after a long trip or for years after the actual event.

1. Traveling With Your Dress

Flying with a wedding gown requires careful planning and consideration to ensure its safety upon arrival. 

Firstly, try to invest in a sturdy garment bag or a specialized travel case designed for wedding dresses to protect it from wrinkles, tears, or stains. Each Hanna Gotz Studio gown comes with a plastic garment bag (pictured below) so you don't have to worry about getting that before your pick-up appointment.

When packing, gently fold the gown along its natural seams to minimize creases, and place tissue paper between layers to prevent friction. If possible, place the folded dress (inside of the garment bag) in a small carry-on to avoid mishandling by baggage handlers. 

If you’re particularly worried about folding or compressing your gown into a suitcase, another option is to communicate with the airline in advance about any special accommodations for delicate garments. Certain airlines may offer closet space in the cabin, for an additional charge. This would be ideal, since you don’t need to be concerned about your gown being packed up or folded for an extended period of time. 

After arrival, remove the dress from its packaging and hang it up to allow any remaining wrinkles to naturally fall out. By thinking ahead, flying with a wedding gown can be a stress-free experience, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition for the big day.

If transporting the dress by car, the process is more simple. Try to avoid folding the gown if possible, allocating a seat (or row) for the piece. A garment bag is also highly recommended for this mode of transportation, as it can protect the piece from sunlight (which may have discoloration or bleaching effects on the fabric). 

Lay the bag straight, or with minimal folding, either vertically over a singular seat or horizontally over a row. If only one seat is available, make sure to secure the bag at the top of the seat to ensure the gown does not slide off during the drive. Make sure not to leave your gown in a hot car for long periods of time, and consider keeping the temperature in the vehicle slightly lower than usual. 

Hanna Gotz Studio gowns are primarily made with a combination of tulle, lace, and Italian crepe, all of which don't retain wrinkles or crease easily. However, it’s still good to follow these careful procedures if you are traveling to/from Miami to try on and pick up the piece or are planning a destination wedding to keep the gown pristine for your big day. 

2. Washing Your Dress

Any piece of clothing will inevitably require washing, despite how careful you might be when wearing it. There are many ways to care for your gown after the big day, allowing you to prevent any permanent stains and keep your dress clean. 

First, it’s recommended to wash your dress within a few days of the event. Many might be inclined to return the gown to its bag and simply hang it in the back of a closet, but this is advised against, especially if you hope to repurpose the piece for future occasions. If you’re leaving for your honeymoon immediately, have a trusted friend or family member drop the dress off at a professional dry cleaner, one that is familiar with cleaning delicate pieces. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable way to keep your gown clean, cleaning your wedding dress at home is a feasible option with careful attention to detail and the right materials. 

Begin by filling a clean bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and a gentle detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Gently spot-treat stains with a soft brush or cloth, avoiding harsh scrubbing that could damage the fabric. For more prominent stains, consider using a specialized stain remover designed for bridal gowns. 

After spot-treating, submerge the gown in the soapy water and gently scrub it to loosen dirt and stains. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can easily cause damage. Rinse the gown thoroughly with cool water until all soap residue is removed, then carefully blot excess water with clean towels. 

Finally, hang the gown to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, ensuring it is fully dry before storing it in a breathable garment bag or box. 

Although cleaning your wedding gown at home can be done with caution and care, it's recommended to consider professional cleaning services for delicate fabrics or intricate designs to prevent any potential damage.

3. Storing Your Dress

Once your dress has been cleaned, use a padded hanger to support the gown's shape and avoid stretching delicate fabrics. Cover the gown with a cotton garment bag to protect it from dust and light exposure, which can cause discoloration over time. 

Store the gown in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, such as a closet or under-the-bed storage. Avoid storing it in plastic garment bags used in dress transport, as they can trap moisture and lead to yellowing. Periodically check on the gown to ensure it remains in good condition, and consider airing it out occasionally to prevent mustiness. With proper storage, your wedding gown should remain timeless for years to come.

Hanna Gotz Studio has many accommodations for brides not located in Miami in regards to shipping, and the custom nature of our gowns means you can opt for a more transport-suitable or durable gown (if that is your preference) made of personally chosen materials.

Schedule a consultation with Hanna today for professional advice on wedding gown design and to get more details about options for gown shipping or transportation!