Whether it’s the run up to your wedding or the big day is done and you’re just looking to preserve the memories, storing a wedding dress can be daunting. There are so many things to consider like avoiding staining and creasing. At Tilly’s we’re not just styling experts, we also know a thing or two about wedding dress cleaning, care and storage (is there anything we can’t do!).
In this guide we’ll run through:
- How to store a wedding dress
- How to steam a wedding dress
- How to preserve a wedding dress
You’ll have everything you need to keep your wedding dress pristine before and long after the big day!
How to store a wedding dress
- Clean – First things first, before storing your wedding dress, make sure it’s absolutely sparkling clean. Any hidden marks or stains can settle over time, and nobody wants that for their dream dress.
- Keep it flat – When it comes to storage, laying your gown flat is much better than hanging it long term. Hanging can cause the fabric to stretch over time, especially with heavier dresses. We recommend investing in a high quality acid free wedding dress storage box, along with acid free tissue paper or a soft cotton sheet to help protect the fabric.
- Keep it Cool – Wedding dress preservation is all about climate control. Your gown loves a neutral temperature – not too hot, not too cold (yes, she’s a little high maintenance). Avoid storing your dress in basements, lofts, or garages, as these spaces can become damp, musty, or experience temperature changes. Instead, keep it in a spare room or somewhere in the house where the temperature stays fairly consistent. Bonus points if it’s somewhere safe from curious pets and little hands too!
- Keep out of sight – We know it’s tempting to unzip the box every five minutes just to stare at your beautiful dress before the big day… but try to resist! Constantly taking it out increases the risk of stains from makeup, deodorant, dust, or even pet hair.
Tuck your wedding dress away safely and let the magic stay preserved until it’s finally time to wear your gown down the aisle.
How to steam a wedding dress
So, you’ve made it to the big day, but even the best storage can leave a few creases behind.
While we always recommend taking your dress to a professional steamer for complete peace of mind, it is possible to steam your wedding dress yourself with a little extra care.
Start by making sure your steamer is completely clean. Run a full cycle first to remove any hidden mould, residue, or build-up that could stain delicate fabrics. Fill the steamer with distilled water rather than tap water, as tap water can leave marks or cause yellowing over time. Before you begin, wipe the nozzle with a kitchen roll or a clean towel to make sure it’s spotless.
When you’re ready to steam, test a small, hidden section first to see how the fabric reacts. If possible, steam the dress inside out to help avoid shiny marks on the material. Keep the steamer moving at all times, never hold it in one place for too long and let the steam do the work. Avoid pulling or tugging the fabric while steaming, as this can stretch delicate areas.
A little patience goes a long way, and your dress will be looking aisle ready in no time
How to preserve a wedding dress
The first, and arguably most important step to preserving a wedding dress is professional cleaning to remove any stains. Some marks can be invisible at first; things like sweat, perfume, or even white wine may not show up straight away. Over time, however, these hidden stains can develop and permanently damage or discolour the fabric. That’s why the best thing you can do after your big day is have your dress professionally cleaned as soon as possible.
Once your dress is beautifully clean, store it flat in a breathable, plastic-free box. Just as before the wedding, avoid rooms where temperatures fluctuate, such as lofts or garages, and choose a space with a stable temperature instead. Keep it safely tucked away, and your dress will stay just as beautiful as the day you walked down the aisle – ready for those special moments when you want to take it out and relive the magic.
Still searching for your dream dress?
If you still haven’t found your perfect dress, you’re in the right place.
At Tilly’s Bridal, we have an extensive collection of fabulous wedding dresses from sought after designers. Our boutique is a breathtaking three-storey church conversion (perfect, right?).
During a private bridal appointment at Tilly’s, you’ll get an entire floor to yourself, along with your very own dedicated stylist whose mission is to help you find your sparkle.
Book now, we can’t wait to help you say yes to your dream dress.
Published:
28th May, 2026
Approved by:
Sian Leyshon-Fleming – Owner of Tilly’s & Author of The Wedding Dress Survival Guide