How Do I Care for My Bridesmaid Dress to Avoid Wrinkles and Damage?

 

Hang bridesmaid dresses on padded hangers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Steam dresses 1–2 days before the wedding to remove wrinkles.

Store dresses in breathable garment bags, never plastic. Most bridesmaid dresses need dry cleaning only, not home washing.

Keep dresses away from makeup, perfume, and deodorant. Handle with clean hands and avoid jewelry that can snag fabric.

Bridesmaid Dress Care Quick Reference Guide

Care Task	When to Do It	Time Required	Why It Matters
Hang on padded hanger	Immediately upon arrival	5 minutes	Prevents shoulder marks
Store in garment bag	After hanging	2 minutes	Protects from dust/damage
Steam wrinkles	1–2 days before wedding	15–20 minutes	Removes shipping wrinkles
Spot clean stains	Immediately when spotted	10–15 minutes	Prevents permanent stains
Professional cleaning	After wedding	1 week turnaround	Preserves dress condition

This table shows essential care tasks for bridesmaid dresses. Follow these steps to keep dresses pristine from arrival to wedding day.

Unpacking and Initial Storage

 

Proper care starts the moment your dress arrives. Handle it correctly from day one.

Unpacking Your Bridesmaid Dress

What to Do Immediately:

Step 1: Inspect upon arrival

• Open package right away
• Check for damage or stains
• Verify correct color and size
• Report issues within 48 hours
• Take photos if problems found
• Contact customer service immediately

Step 2: Remove from shipping package

• Cut open plastic carefully
• Do not pull dress through tight openings
• Avoid snagging on staples or tape
• Remove all pins and tags gently
• Keep tags if you might return
• Discard plastic immediately

Step 3: Air out the dress

• Hang in well-ventilated room
• Let dress breathe for 24 hours
• Removes shipping odors
• Relaxes compressed fabric
• Do not wear immediately
• Allow wrinkles to relax naturally

What NOT to Do:

• Leave dress in plastic bag
• Fold and put in drawer
• Hang on wire hanger
• Store in hot or damp place
• Ignore damage or stains
• Wait weeks to unpack

Choosing the Right Hanger

Best Hanger Types:

Padded Fabric Hangers:

• Soft, cushioned surface
• Prevents shoulder dimples
• Distributes weight evenly
• Best for delicate fabrics
• Available at home stores

Wide Wooden Hangers:

• Broad shoulder support
• No slipping off
• Sturdy and reliable
• Good for heavy dresses
• Long-lasting investment

Velvet Hangers:

• Non-slip surface
• Prevents dress from sliding
• Slim profile saves space
• Good for lighter dresses
• Available in packs

Hangers to AVOID:

Hanger Type	Why to Avoid	Damage Risk	Alternative
Wire hangers	Too thin, creates shoulder marks	High	Padded hangers
Plastic tube hangers	Slippery, dress falls off	Medium	Velvet hangers
Clip hangers	Leaves marks on fabric	High	Full shoulder hanger
Narrow wooden hangers	Concentrates weight in small area	Medium	Wide wooden hangers

Hanger Care Tips:

• One dress per hanger only
• Do not overcrowd
• Hang dress fully zipped or buttoned
• Strap dresses need special care
• Use multiple hangers if very heavy
• Check hanger weekly for marks

Proper Storage Location

Best Storage Spaces:

Climate-Controlled Closet:

• Cool temperature (65–70°F)
• Low humidity (40–50%)
• Away from direct sunlight
• Good air circulation
• Not damp basement
• Not hot attic

Guest Room Closet:

• Less traffic than main closet
• Lower risk of damage
• Plenty of space to hang
• Away from daily wear items
• Clean and dust-free
• Temperature stable

Dedicated Garment Rack:

• Freestanding dress rack
• In bedroom or spare room
• Easy to access
• Allows dress to breathe
• Can use garment bag over it

Storage Locations to AVOID:

• Bathroom (too humid)
• Near windows (sun damage)
• Garage (temperature extremes)
• Basement (dampness, mildew)
• Attic (heat damage)
• Car trunk (wrinkles, heat)

Storage Duration Guidelines:

Time Before Wedding	Storage Method	Maintenance Needed
3+ months	Garment bag on hanger	Check monthly
1–3 months	Garment bag on hanger	Check bi-weekly
2–4 weeks	Hang in open closet	Check weekly
1 week	Hang in open, steam ready	Daily check
1–2 days	Hang near steamer	Keep wrinkle-free

Fabric-Specific Care Instructions

Different fabrics require different care methods. Know your dress fabric before cleaning.

Chiffon Dress Care

Fabric Characteristics:

• Lightweight and delicate
• Snags easily on rough surfaces
• Shows water spots
• Difficult to iron directly
• Needs gentle handling
• Very sheer and see-through

Cleaning Instructions:

Hand Washing (If Allowed):

• Fill sink with cold water
• Add gentle detergent (1 tablespoon)
• Submerge dress gently
• Swish softly, no rubbing
• Rinse in cold water 2–3 times
• Never wring or twist

Drying:

• Lay flat on clean towel
• Roll towel to absorb water
• Unroll and reshape dress
• Hang on padded hanger
• Air dry completely
• Never use dryer

Steaming:

• Hold steamer 6–8 inches away
• Never touch fabric directly
• Let steam do the work
• Move steamer slowly
• Hang while steaming
• Test on hidden area first

Special Warnings:

• Never use hot water
• No bleach ever
• Do not machine wash
• Cannot iron directly
• Avoid rough surfaces
• Keep away from jewelry

Satin Dress Care

Fabric Characteristics:

• Smooth and shiny surface
• Shows water spots immediately
• Wrinkles easily
• Attracts lint and dust
• Can develop permanent creases
• Delicate shine can dull

Cleaning Instructions:

Dry Clean Only (Recommended):

• Professional cleaning best
• Prevents water spots
• Maintains shine
• Every 1–2 wearings
• Always after wedding

Spot Cleaning:

• Blot (never rub) stains
• Use dry cleaning solvent
• Test on hidden seam first
• Dab gently with clean cloth
• Let air dry completely
• Professional cleaning after

Ironing/Steaming:

• Use lowest heat setting
• Place pressing cloth between
• Iron on reverse side only
• Never iron directly on satin
• Steam from 12 inches away
• Work in sections

Special Warnings:

• Water causes permanent spots
• Deodorant stains satin permanently
• Perfume damages fabric
• Direct heat dulls shine
• Never use fabric softener
• Store away from sunlight

Tulle Dress Care

Fabric Characteristics:

• Multiple delicate layers
• Tangles and snags easily
• Very lightweight
• Collects static
• Difficult to smooth once wrinkled
• Needs gentle handling

Cleaning Instructions:

Hand Washing (If Needed):

• Cold water only
• Minimal agitation
• Very gentle soap
• Rinse thoroughly
• No wringing at all
• Pat with towel gently

Drying:

• Hang immediately after washing
• Separate layers to air dry
• Do not let layers stick together
• Air dry only, never heat
• May take 24–48 hours
• Fluff layers once dry

De-Wrinkling:

• Hang in bathroom during shower
• Steam moisture relaxes tulle
• Gentle hand steaming from distance
• Never iron tulle layers
• Careful not to flatten poof
• Separate layers after steaming

Special Warnings:

• Never iron directly
• Snags very easily
• Static clings to everything
• Collects lint quickly
• Can tear if pulled
• Keep away from rough surfaces

Velvet Dress Care

Fabric Characteristics:

• Plush, soft pile surface
• Crushes easily when pressed
• Shows permanent marks
• Difficult to restore if damaged
• Heavy and warm
• Luxurious appearance

Cleaning Instructions:

Dry Clean Only (Always):

• Never attempt home washing
• Professional cleaning required
• Specify velvet to cleaner
• Every wearing recommended
• Cannot risk home methods

Spot Treatment:

• Blot liquid immediately
• Use dry cloth only
• No rubbing ever
• Brush with soft velvet brush
• Hang to air out
• Professional cleaning after

Steaming:

• Steam only from reverse side
• Never touch pile with iron
• Use velvet board if available
• Hold steamer 12 inches away
• Work in small sections
• Let dry completely hanging

Special Warnings:

• One iron mark ruins velvet permanently
• Water leaves lasting spots
• Sitting crushes pile
• Hang after wearing immediately
• Cannot remove crush marks
• Most delicate formal fabric

Lace Dress Care

Fabric Characteristics:

• Intricate patterns
• Snags on everything
• Can tear easily
• Difficult to repair
• Often has delicate embellishments
• May have attached sequins or beads

Cleaning Instructions:

Professional Cleaning Best:

• Hand cleaning recommended
• Specify delicate lace
• Cannot risk home washing
• Beading complicates cleaning
• Always after wearing

Emergency Spot Cleaning:

• Cool water and mild soap
• Dab gently with cotton swab
• Do not rub lace pattern
• Pat dry with clean towel
• Air dry completely
• Professional clean after

Handling:

• Remove rings before touching
• Keep away from rough surfaces
• Store in mesh garment bag
• Tissue paper between folds
• Never hang by thin straps
• Support weight properly

Special Warnings:

• Cannot repair torn lace
• Snags ruin pattern
• Beading can fall off
• Most fragile formal fabric
• Handle with extreme care
• Never machine wash

Fabric Care Comparison Chart

 

Fabric	Washing Method	Drying Method	Ironing/Steaming	Special Care
Chiffon	Hand wash cold or dry clean	Air dry flat	Steam 6–8 inches away	Snags easily
Satin	Dry clean only	Air dry if hand washed	Lowest heat, press cloth	Water spots permanently
Tulle	Gentle hand wash	Hang to air dry	Steam gently, no iron	Separate layers
Velvet	Dry clean only, always	Air dry (if emergency)	Steam reverse side only	Never iron pile
Lace	Professional clean only	Air dry flat	Very gentle steam	Snags and tears

Wrinkle Removal and Prevention

Wrinkles are the most common bridesmaid dress issue. Learn prevention and removal techniques.

Preventing Wrinkles

Storage Methods:

Hanging Method (Best):

• Always hang on padded hanger
• Never fold dress
• Zip or button completely closed
• Straighten dress on hanger
• Smooth out any bunching
• Check alignment weekly

Travel Method:

• Hang dress immediately upon arrival
• Do not leave in luggage
• Use hotel closet rod
• Steam as soon as possible
• Never fold in suitcase
• Consider garment bag with stiffener

Transportation Tips:

• Lay flat in car if possible
• Hang from hook in back seat
• Use garment bag with cardboard stiffener
• Never put in trunk (too hot)
• Remove immediately at destination
• Do not leave in car overnight

Activities That Cause Wrinkles:

• Sitting for long periods
• Folding dress for travel
• Storing in plastic bag
• Leaving in suitcase
• Hanging on wrong hanger type
• Overcrowded closet

Steaming Your Dress

When to Steam:

Ideal Timing:

• 1–2 days before wedding
• Never day-of (takes time to dry)
• After dress has aired out 24 hours
• Before final try-on
• In well-ventilated room
• Allow 30–45 minutes

Steaming Equipment:

Handheld Steamer:

• Easy to control
• Good for small areas
• Travel-friendly
• Takes 10–15 minutes to heat
• Lasts 15–20 minutes

Standing Steamer:

• Professional results
• Covers large areas quickly
• Holds more water
• Heats in 2–3 minutes
• Lasts 45–60 minutes

Bathroom Steam Method (Emergency):

• Free option
• Hang dress in bathroom
• Run hot shower 15–20 minutes
• Door closed, room steamy
• Let dress absorb steam
• Not as effective as steamer
• Last resort only

Step-by-Step Steaming Guide:

Step 1: Prepare dress

• Hang on sturdy hook or rod
• Zip dress completely closed
• Remove from garment bag
• Have dress at eye level
• Good lighting
• Clear workspace

Step 2: Prepare steamer

• Fill with distilled water (prevents spots)
• Heat according to instructions
• Wait for ready signal
• Test steam flow first
• Have towel nearby
• Protect floor from drips

Step 3: Steam from top to bottom

• Start at shoulders
• Work down to hem
• Hold steamer 6–12 inches away
• Never touch fabric with steamer
• Move in downward motions
• Let gravity help

Step 4: Work in sections

• Front bodice first
• Move to back
• Then sleeves if present
• Skirt in large sections
• Overlap slightly
• Take breaks if needed

Step 5: Let dress dry

• Leave hanging for 30–60 minutes
• Do not move or touch
• Allow moisture to evaporate
• Check for any missed spots
• Re-steam if needed
• Keep hanging until dry

Steaming Safety Tips:

• Never aim steamer at face
• Steam can burn skin
• Do not touch steamer nozzle
• Keep cord away from water
• Unplug when finished
• Store steamer safely

Iron vs Steam: When to Use Each

Steaming (Recommended for Most Fabrics):

Benefits:

• Safer for delicate fabrics
• No risk of shine marks
• Works on all fabric types
• No direct fabric contact
• Cannot burn or scorch
• Quick and easy

Best For:

• Chiffon
• Tulle
• Velvet (reverse side)
• Lace
• Satin
• All embellished fabrics

Ironing (Use with Extreme Caution):

When to Use:

• Only if steamer unavailable
• Only on cotton blends
• On lowest heat setting
• With pressing cloth always
• On reverse side only
• As last resort

Fabrics to NEVER Iron:

• Velvet (ruins pile)
• Sequined or beaded fabrics
• Delicate lace
• Very thin chiffon
• Satin (front side)
• Any fabric with plastic details

Wrinkle Removal Method Comparison

Method	Effectiveness	Safety Level	Time Required	Best For
Professional steamer	Excellent	Very safe	15–20 minutes	All fabrics
Handheld steamer	Good	Very safe	20–30 minutes	Travel, spot treating
Bathroom steam	Fair	Very safe	30–40 minutes	Emergency only
Ironing with press cloth	Good	Moderate risk	15–20 minutes	Cotton blends only
Professional pressing	Excellent	Safe	1–2 days	Heavy wrinkles

Stain Prevention and Treatment

Stains ruin bridesmaid dresses quickly. Prevention is easier than removal.

Common Stain Causes and Prevention

Makeup Stains:

Prevention:

• Apply makeup before dressing
• Use robe or towel when dressing
• Pull dress over feet, not head
• Have someone help you dress
• Set makeup with powder/spray
• Be extra careful with foundation

Quick Treatment:

• Blot with clean white cloth
• Use makeup remover on cloth
• Dab gently, do not rub
• Test on hidden seam first
• Professional cleaning after
• Do not use water directly

Deodorant Marks:

Prevention:

• Apply deodorant and let dry completely (5 minutes)
• Use clear or invisible deodorant
• Wait before dressing
• Do not over-apply product
• Consider dress shields
• Put dress on carefully

Quick Treatment:

• Rub gently with clean nylon stocking
• White vinegar on cloth works
• Blot, do not scrub
• Air dry completely
• Do not use heat
• Professional clean recommended

Perfume Stains:

Prevention:

• Spray perfume before dressing
• Wait 5 minutes for alcohol to evaporate
• Never spray on dress fabric
• Spray on skin only
• Keep bottle away from dress
• Avoid heavy application

Quick Treatment:

• Blot with rubbing alcohol on cloth
• Test on hidden area first
• Can leave permanent discoloration
• Professional cleaning only
• May not be removable
• Prevention is crucial

Food and Drink Spills:

Prevention:

• Use straw for all drinks
• Hold drinks away from dress
• Avoid red wine and dark sodas
• Be careful during meals
• Use large napkin on lap
• Consider changing for dinner

Quick Treatment:

• Blot immediately with clean napkin
• Do not rub or spread stain
• Club soda for fresh stains
• Dab from outside toward center
• Let air dry
• Professional cleaning required

Grass and Outdoor Stains:

Prevention:

• Avoid sitting on grass
• Watch hem on outdoor surfaces
• Hold dress when walking outside
• Use protective covering if needed
• Stay on pathways
• Lift dress on uneven terrain

Quick Treatment:

• Let dry completely first
• Brush off dried grass/dirt
• Do not wet grass stains
• Professional cleaning only
• Very difficult to remove
• May be permanent

Emergency Stain Kit for Wedding Day

Items to Pack:

• Clean white cloths (3–4)
• Blotting papers
• Makeup remover wipes
• Clear deodorant
• Tide To-Go pen (test first)
• White vinegar in small bottle
• Club soda in small bottle
• Safety pins
• Fashion tape
• Small sewing kit

Who Should Carry Kit:

• Maid of honor
• Bridesmaid coordinator
• Wedding planner
• Mother of bride
• Anyone responsible
• Keep easily accessible

Stain Prevention and Treatment Guide

Stain Type	Prevention	Emergency Treatment	Removal Difficulty	Professional Clean?
Makeup	Apply before dressing	Makeup remover on cloth	Moderate	Yes
Deodorant	Let dry 5 minutes	Rub with nylon	Easy	Recommended
Perfume	Spray before dressing	Rubbing alcohol	Difficult	Required
Food/drink	Use straws, napkins	Club soda blot	Moderate to difficult	Required
Grass	Avoid sitting on ground	Brush when dry	Very difficult	Required
Oil-based	Keep food away	Cornstarch absorb	Very difficult	Required

Long-Term Storage After the Wedding

Proper post-wedding storage preserves your dress for years.

Cleaning Before Storage

Why Professional Cleaning Matters:

• Invisible stains appear over time
• Body oils yellow fabric
• Perspiration damages fabric
• Makeup transfers settle in
• Food stains set permanently
• Dirt causes fabric breakdown

Timing:

• Clean within 2 weeks of wedding
• Sooner is better
• Stains set over time
• Do not delay cleaning
• Even if dress looks clean
• Always clean before storage

What to Tell Cleaner:

• Fabric type
• Location of any stains
• What caused stains
• Special care needed
• When you need it back
• Long-term storage planned

Cost:

• Standard cleaning
• Beaded/embellished
• Preservation boxing
• Worth the investment
• Maintains dress value
• Prevents damage

Storage Methods

Short-Term Storage (1–2 Years):

Method:

• Clean garment bag (acid-free)
• Padded hanger
• Cool, dry closet
• Away from sunlight
• Check every 6 months
• Re-hang if needed

Long-Term Storage (5+ Years):

Professional Preservation:

• Acid-free box
• Tissue paper layers
• Sealed environment
• Climate controlled
• Prevents yellowing

DIY Preservation:

• Clean dress professionally first
• Acid-free tissue paper
• Acid-free storage box
• White cotton sheet on top
• Store in climate-controlled space
• Check annually

Storage Location:

• Indoor closet (best)
• Under bed in box
• Climate-controlled storage unit
• Never attic (too hot)
• Never basement (too damp)
• Never garage (temperature extremes)

What Happens Without Proper Storage

Common Damage:

• Yellowing from body oils
• Fabric deterioration
• Mold and mildew growth
• Permanent wrinkles
• Fabric brittleness
• Color fading
• Oxidation stains
• Insect damage

Prevention Saves Money:

• Proper storage
• Replacing damaged dress
• Cannot reverse damage
• Investment worth making
• Preserves memories
• Maintains resale value

Post-Wedding Storage Options

Storage Method	Duration	Protection Level	Maintenance	Best For
Garment bag + hanger	1–2 years	Good	Check every 6 months	Short-term keeping
Professional preservation box	5–20 years	Excellent	Sealed, no maintenance	Long-term preservation
DIY acid-free box	3–10 years	Good	Check annually	Budget-conscious
Regular box/bag	Not recommended	Poor	Damage likely	Not recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove wrinkles from a bridesmaid dress?

Steam the dress 1–2 days before the wedding using a handheld or standing steamer. Hold the steamer 6–12 inches away from fabric.

Never touch fabric directly with steamer. Hang dress for 30–60 minutes after steaming to dry completely.

Can I wash my bridesmaid dress at home?

Most bridesmaid dresses require dry cleaning only. Check the care label inside the dress first.

Chiffon and cotton blends may allow gentle hand washing in cold water. Satin, velvet, and lace always need professional cleaning.

How should I hang my bridesmaid dress?

Use a padded or wide wooden hanger to prevent shoulder marks. Hang in a cool, dry closet away from direct sunlight.

Store in a breathable garment bag, not plastic. Keep dress fully zipped or buttoned while hanging.

What is the best way to travel with a bridesmaid dress?

Hang the dress in a garment bag with cardboard stiffener for structure. Lay flat in car or hang in back seat.

Never fold dress in suitcase. Remove from bag immediately upon arrival and hang to release any wrinkles.

How do I get makeup off my bridesmaid dress?

Blot makeup stains immediately with a clean white cloth and makeup remover. Dab gently, do not rub.

Test on hidden seam first. Professional dry cleaning is recommended after treating any makeup stains.

When should I clean my bridesmaid dress after the wedding?

Clean your dress within 2 weeks after the wedding, even if it looks clean. Invisible stains from body oils and perspiration set over time.

Final Tips for Bridesmaid Dress Care

Hang dress on padded hanger immediately upon arrival. Store in breathable garment bag in cool, dry closet. Steam dress 1–2 days before wedding, never day-of. Hold steamer 6–12 inches away from fabric. Apply makeup before dressing. 

Let deodorant dry completely before putting on dress. Keep dress away from perfume, jewelry, and rough surfaces. Handle with clean, dry hands only. Never machine wash bridesmaid dresses. Most fabrics require professional dry cleaning only. Blot stains immediately with clean white cloth. 

Never rub or scrub stained fabric. Clean dress within 2 weeks after wedding. Professional cleaning prevents permanent yellowing. Store cleaned dress in acid-free box or garment bag. Keep in climate-controlled location. Check stored dress every 6–12 months. Re-hang or refold with fresh tissue paper.