Awedding dress does not end its usefulness after the matrimony. It can actually be considered as an important family heirloom that the bride can pass to her daughters and even granddaughters.

In that case, great lengths should be taken when it comes to preserving your wedding gown in order to maintain its quality and appearance, as well as protecting it from extreme temperatures, moisture, and exposure to direct sunlight. Here are some suggestions you can do in keeping the dress for a long time.

Get a bag

If the wedding dress does not need to be cleaned, keep it in a dry cleaning bag and store in a temperate, dry, and dark location.

Have it cleaned

Go to a professional dry cleaner that specializes in formal dresses as soon as possible after the wedding. Alert the cleaner of any stains, as well as any decorations that were glued rather than sewn on and loose stitches.

Ask if the dress can be stored in a special acid-free box and packed in acid-free tissue paper. You can ask your family, friends, and even your bridal shop about their recommended cleaning service.

Keep it hanging

You can also hang your wedding dress by sewing straps onto the waist, then place it on a padded hanger, and wrap in a clean white cotton sheet.

Preserve it professionally

If the dress is made from special materials and needs above-average handling, you may want to bring it to a professional preservationist. How the gown is handled would depend on its fabric, dye, weave, and ornaments.

After cleaning, it is carefully wrapped in acid-free tissue and packed in a Coroplast box. However, such service charge quite a lot, between $250 and $500.

Bring it out every now and then

Inspect your wedding gown at least once a year and check for any discolorations and missed stains. Wear gloves while handling the dress to prevent the oil from your skin to get into the fabric.

Bringing out the gown also allows it to "breathe." Then, carefully repack the dress and store it away. A wedding gown can be preserved between 50 to 70 years.