Wedding dresses are often crafted from delicate, intricately woven fabrics that can easily snag — especially those made with lace or other fine materials. Traditional white gowns are also at risk of staining or yellowing over time if not stored correctly. Whether you’re preserving your own dress or looking after a treasured family heirloom, here are five essential tips for long-term wedding dress storage to help prevent damage and deterioration.
- Store in a cool, dry place
Even the most secure wedding dress box won’t protect your gown if the storage space is damp. Climate control is key when it comes to preserving textiles. Humidity can lead to mould and fabric discolouration, so aim to keep the environment between 30% and 50% humidity. Room temperature or cooler is ideal. Always store your dress away from radiators, air conditioners, and humidifiers — and never in the attic. The right conditions go a long way in protecting your dress. - Keep your wedding dress away from sunlight
Just like paint, fabric fades in the sun. UV exposure can cause white dresses to yellow and colours to fade, making the fabric look worn and aged. Always store your wedding dress in a dark wardrobe or closet, well away from windows or direct sunlight. Even indirect light can have a lasting effect over time. If your own space isn’t suitable, consider professional storage. - Consider professional cleaning before storing your wedding dress
While it might feel sentimental to leave your dress untouched, doing so can lead to long-term damage. Sweat, makeup, and perfume leave behind salts and chemicals that gradually break down delicate fabrics. Before putting your gown into storage, it’s important to have it professionally cleaned by a specialist who understands how to care for fragile materials. They’ll safely remove all traces of the day without risking harm to the dress. This extra step is essential to preserve both the condition of your wedding dress and the memories it holds. - Use bags and boxes made for wedding dresses
Garment bags and storage boxes designed specifically for wedding dresses are your best bet for keeping dust and insects at bay. Look for acid-free, chemical-free options made for delicate fabrics — never use regular cloth, plastic bags or cardboard boxes as they can trap moisture and promote mould growth. A breathable, netted garment bag is ideal for allowing airflow while offering protection. Whether you’re storing the dress flat or hanging, always use proper materials to preserve the fabric over time. - Check the quality of your dress regularly
Try not to simply pack your dress away and forget about it. Every six months or so, take a moment to check for any signs of damage, discolouration, or pests. Once a year, it’s worth gently unpacking and refolding the dress along different lines to help avoid lasting creases. After all, your wedding dress is more than just a garment — it’s a cherished reminder of a special day. With a little ongoing care, you can help keep it beautiful for years to come.
Say Yes to Storage for Wedding Cards & Precious Mementos
A wedding dress isn’t the only keepsake worth preserving — items like wedding cards, centrepieces, table runners, and even sculptures of the bride and groom hold just as much sentimental value. Wedding cards, filled with heartfelt messages from loved ones, deserve to be stored with care. If you’re looking for reliable wedding card storage ideas, our secure archive lockers offer the perfect solution: purpose-built storage units designed to keep documents safe from loss, damage, or theft.
Our long-term storage spaces are also ideal for protecting miscellaneous wedding mementos and sentimental items you simply can’t part with. From unique decorations to handcrafted pieces, your treasures will be safe from pests, damp, mould, and other risks that come with everyday storage.
Posted on 27th September 2022 by Shanaiqua Desa | Last updated on 6th June 2025
